Great American Business Leaders of the 20th Century
Leo H. Baekeland
Bakelite Corporation
1909–1939
1909–1939
Bakelite Corporation
1909–1939
1909–1939
- Industry: Chemicals & Industrial
- Era: 1900
In 1907, Baekeland invented a high-quality synthetic substance that would change the lives of individuals and businesses forever – plastic (called Bakelite). Products produced with Bakelite were considered to be synonymous with high quality and durability – essentially becoming the 1920s and 1930s equivalent of “ built with Intel Inside.” Bakelite Corporation became the precursor to the formation of Union Carbide Corporation.
Education / Military
- Graduate: University of Ghent
- Undergraduate: University of Ghent