Introduction
John Perry Barlow was known as an internet pioneer who wrote lyrics for the Grateful Dead and was a co-founder of the Electronic Frontier Foundation. He believed in internet freedom and was a staunch defender of free speech. But what most people don’t know is the massive wealth he accumulated throughout his life. In this blog post, we will reveal the net worth of John Perry Barlow and explore the different aspects of his wealth.
His Net Worth
Barlow’s net worth at the time of his death in 2018 was estimated to be around $50 million. He accumulated his wealth through his career as a songwriter, co-founder of the EFF, and his investments in various tech startups. His wealth also came from his family’s ranch in Wyoming, which he inherited.
The Grateful Dead years
Barlow’s career started as a lyricist for the Grateful Dead. He wrote songs like “Cassidy,” “Estimated Prophet,” and “Feel Like a Stranger,” which are still beloved by the band’s fans. His work with the Grateful Dead brought him a significant amount of income throughout his life, both in royalties and from live performances.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation
Barlow co-founded the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a non-profit organization that defends civil liberties in the digital world. As a co-founder, he didn’t receive a salary but was given shares in EFF that added to his net worth.
The Virtual Community
In 1993, Barlow wrote an essay titled “The Economy of Ideas,” where he coined the phrase “cyberspace” and described it as a “virtual world.” He believed that the internet could create new communities and economies, and he was right. His vision of a virtual community contributed to the rise of social media platforms, which generated billions of dollars in revenue.
Tech start-up investments
Barlow invested in various tech startups, including Level 3 Communications, which he co-founded. He also invested in Digidesign, which was acquired by Avid Technology for $500 million in 1995. His investments in tech startups gave him a significant return on his investments and helped him accumulate a vast fortune.
The Barlow Ranch
Barlow inherited his family’s ranch in Wyoming, which is spread across 30,000 acres. The ranch has been used for cattle grazing and hunting. The Barlow ranch is considered one of the most beautiful and amazing natural locations in the United States.
Barlow’s writings
Barlow was also an accomplished writer and published several books. His book “A Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace” is considered a seminal work in the field of internet freedom. His writing helped shape the internet as we know it today.
Philanthropy
Barlow was a philanthropist throughout his life. He donated to various causes and non-profit organizations. He believed in giving back to society and helping those in need. His philanthropic work contributed to his legacy as a champion of free speech and individual rights.
Conclusion
John Perry Barlow was not just a pioneer of internet freedom but also a wealthy man. His net worth of $50 million was the result of his efforts as a songwriter, co-founder of the EFF, investor, writer, and philanthropist. His legacy will forever be remembered by his contributions to the digital world and his advocacy for individual rights.
FAQs
Q. What is John Perry Barlow’s net worth?
A. John Perry Barlow’s net worth at the time of his death in 2018 was estimated to be around $50 million.
Q. How did John Perry Barlow make his money?
A. John Perry Barlow made his money through his work as a songwriter, co-founder of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, his investments in tech startups, and his inheritance of his family’s ranch in Wyoming.
Q. What is the Electronic Frontier Foundation?
A. The Electronic Frontier Foundation is a non-profit organization that defends civil liberties in the digital world.
Q. Was John Perry Barlow a philanthropist?
A. Yes, John Perry Barlow was a philanthropist throughout his life who donated to various causes and non-profit organizations.
Q. What is the significance of Barlow’s ranch in Wyoming?
A. The Barlow ranch in Wyoming is spread across 30,000 acres and is considered one of the most beautiful and amazing natural locations in the United States.