Google commemorates its 25th birthday with a unique Google Doodle today. While Google is constantly looking ahead, birthdays offer a chance for reflection.
Birth of Google 25 Years Ago
In the late 1990s, two doctoral students, Sergey Brin and Larry Page, crossed paths during their studies at Stanford University's computer science program. They quickly discovered a shared vision—to improve access to the World Wide Web. From their dorm rooms, they tirelessly worked on creating a better search engine. As their project gained momentum, they moved their operations to Google's first office, a humble rented garage. On September 27, 1998, Google Inc. was officially founded.
Since that pivotal day in 1998, Google has undergone significant changes, evident in today's Doodle. However, its mission has remained unwavering: to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.
Today, billions of people worldwide rely on Google for search, connection, work, play, and more. This Doodle is visible globally, except in select regions, including Russia.
Previous Doodle on September 25
In the last Doodle released on September 25, Google celebrated South African jazz pianist, composer, and journalist Todd Matshikiza. Illustrated by guest artist Keith Vlahakis from South Africa, the Doodle paid tribute to Matshikiza's commissioned cantata, "Uxolo" (peace), performed by an orchestra at the 70th Johannesburg Festival on September 25, 1956.
Matshikiza is renowned as a composer, with his song 'Quickly in Love' featured in the 2013 film 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'. He also composed the score for two notable theatrical productions: 'King Kong' and 'Mkhumbane'. 'King Kong', an all-Black jazz musical that premiered in 1958, became a sensation, even making its way to London. 'Mkhumbane' (1960), featuring compositions by Matshikiza and Alan Paton, was equally famous.
In summary, Google's 25th birthday is a significant milestone in its journey from a dorm room project to a global tech giant. As it looks back on its history, Google remains committed to its core mission of making information accessible to everyone. In parallel, Google Doodles continue to celebrate notable figures and events, paying tribute to their contributions to culture and society.
