Key Takeaways
- Founders of Gemini: Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss launched the Gemini crypto exchange and are early Bitcoin investors.
- Facebook Lawsuit: Gained fame for suing Mark Zuckerberg over the alleged theft of their social networking idea.
- Olympic Rowers: Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics as professional rowers.
- Net Worth: Combined wealth of $1.4 billion (2024), primarily from crypto ventures.
Winklevoss Twins Biography
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Names | Tyler Howard Winklevoss, Cameron Howard Winklevoss |
| Siblings | Amanda Winklevoss |
| Education | Harvard University (Economics), University of Oxford (MBA) |
| Professions | Entrepreneurs, Investors, Olympic Rowers |
| Known For | Gemini Exchange, Bitcoin Investments, Facebook Lawsuit, 2008 Olympics |
Early Life and Education
Born in Southampton, New York, the twins attended Greenwich Country Day School and Brunswick School. They excelled academically and athletically, studying classical music, Latin, and Ancient Greek. At Harvard, they joined the men’s varsity crew and co-founded ConnectU, a precursor to Facebook.
Career Highlights
1. Facebook Lawsuit
- Accused Mark Zuckerberg of stealing ConnectU’s source code to launch Facebook.
- Settled for $65 million in 2008, which they reinvested into Bitcoin and startups.
2. Bitcoin Billionaires
- Invested $11 million in Bitcoin (2013) at $120 per BTC, amassing 1% of total supply.
- Their holdings peaked during Bitcoin’s 2021 bull run, earning the "Bitcoin Billionaires" title.
3. Gemini Crypto Exchange
- Founded in 2015, Gemini became a regulated U.S. exchange with features like Gemini Earn.
- Faced challenges in 2022–2023, including layoffs and lawsuits over Earn program defaults.
- Lent $100 million personally to stabilize the platform.
Olympic Rowing Career
- Trained under Harvard coach Harry Parker, winning medals at Pan American Games (2007).
- Placed 6th in men’s pair rowing at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Net Worth and Investments
- $1.4 Billion (2024): Mostly from Gemini and Bitcoin holdings.
- Other investments include blockchain firms like Xapo and 21 Inc.
FAQs
1. How did the Winklevoss twins make their money?
Through Bitcoin investments, Gemini Exchange, and the Facebook lawsuit settlement.
2. Are the Winklevoss twins married?
No public information confirms their marital status.
3. What’s their height?
Both stand 6’5" (196 cm).
4. Why did they sue Mark Zuckerberg?
For allegedly stealing their HarvardConnection idea to create Facebook.
5. How old are they in 2024?
42 years old (born August 21, 1981).
Conclusion
The Winklevoss twins exemplify versatility—from Olympic sports to crypto entrepreneurship. Their journey underscores the risks and rewards of early Bitcoin adoption and the challenges of running a major exchange. Despite setbacks, their commitment to Gemini and crypto innovation remains unwavering.
### SEO Notes:
- **Keywords**: Winklevoss twins, Gemini Exchange, Bitcoin billionaires, Facebook lawsuit, Olympic rowers.
- **Anchor Text**: Used once for Gemini Exchange link.