Everything about Peter Thiel

Tech entrepreneur and investor best known for co-founding PayPal and Palantir, and for being one of Facebook’s earliest backers. 

Bio

Peter Thiel, born in Frankfurt, Germany and raised in California, is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and author. He co-founded PayPal in 1998, helping to revolutionize online payments and laying the groundwork for the modern fintech industry. After PayPal’s success and eventual acquisition by eBay, Thiel became one of the earliest investors in Facebook, turning a $500,000 stake into a multibillion-dollar return.

He went on to co-found Palantir Technologies, a data analytics company that serves major government and commercial clients, and launched Founders Fund, a venture capital firm backing innovative startups like SpaceX, Airbnb, and Stripe. Known for his contrarian thinking and sharp instincts, Thiel has built a legacy around spotting and funding the future of technology. 

Known For

Co-Founded PayPal and Revolutionized Online Payments

In 1998, Peter Thiel co-founded PayPal, which transformed the way individuals and businesses handle digital transactions. As CEO, he led the company through rapid growth until its acquisition by eBay in 2002 for $1.5 billion.

Made a Landmark Early Investment in Facebook

In 2004, Thiel became the first outside investor in Facebook, purchasing a 10.2% stake for $500,000. His early support and strategic guidance helped shape the company’s early development and led to one of the most profitable investments in tech history.

Co-Founded Palantir Technologies, a Global Data Analytics Firm

Thiel co-founded Palantir in 2003 to build software that could analyze complex data sets for intelligence and security purposes. Today, Palantir serves major government and commercial clients worldwide and is publicly traded with multibillion-dollar valuations.

Established Founders Fund, a Leading Venture Capital Firm

In 2005, Thiel launched Founders Fund, a venture capital firm that has invested in groundbreaking companies such as SpaceX, Airbnb, Stripe, and Lyft. The firm is known for backing bold, transformative startups with long-term visions.

Authored the Bestselling Book Zero to One

In 2014, Thiel co-authored Zero to One, a bestseller offering unconventional insights on innovation, startups, and building future defining businesses. The book has become a must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs and tech founders worldwide.

Peter's Social Impact

Peter Thiel is deeply committed to shaping a better future. One of his key initiatives is the Thiel Fellowship, which offers young entrepreneurs $100,000 to drop out of college and focus on their startups. He believes in nurturing innovation over formal education for certain individuals. Furthermore, Thiel is heavily involved in anti-aging and life extension research through his Breakout Labs foundation. He also financially supports various political causes and organizations that align with his libertarian viewpoints. By investing in these varied avenues, he aims to stimulate change and innovation across different facets of society. Thiel isn’t just a businessman; he’s a multi-faceted thought leader striving to make a long-lasting impact on the world.

A startup is basically structured to do something new.

Books by Peter

zerotoonecover

The Will to Win: Leading, Competing, Succeeding

Zero to One is Peter Thiel’s guide to building breakthrough startups. It challenges founders to think differently, create unique value, and build the future through bold innovation.

719F5JNh1vL._SY522_

The Diversity Myth : Multiculturalism and Political Intolerance on Campus

The Diversity Myth examines the rise of political correctness and identity politics on college campuses. Co-authored by Peter Thiel, the book critiques how modern universities handle diversity, free speech, and academic freedom, arguing that ideological conformity undermines true education and open debate.

Want personal advice?

Get a free consultation from Hustler’s Library! Fill out the quick survey, and a Hustler’s Library Small Business Specialist will contact you shortly!

Trusted by 1,000+ entrepreneurs.

More Hustlers

Other hustlers who have made waves in their industries.

About Richard Branson

Everything About Richard Branson

Richard Branson built the Virgin brand into a global empire by mixing fun with fearless business moves. From...
About Ryan Serhant

Everything About Ryan Serhant

From cold calls to million-dollar listings, Ryan Serhant scaled with strategy and serious drive. He built a brand...
Book Obama Recommends

Every Book Obama Recommends

President Obama’s reading list is known for its range, depth, and thoughtfulness. From fiction to policy, his picks...
Recommended Books by Sara Blakely

Recommended Books by Sara Blakely

Sara Blakely turns to books that blend wisdom with real-world lessons. Her favorites explore confidence, creativity, and forging...
Recommended Books by Shaquille O'Neal

Recommended Books by Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal looks for books that challenge, teach, and push him forward. His reading touches on everything from...
About Kevin Hart

Everything About Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart turned hustle into a global brand built on comedy, business, and grit. His story moves from...
About Peter Thiel

Everything about Peter Thiel

Peter Thiel is a billionaire investor, entrepreneur, and contrarian thinker who helped shape Silicon Valley. From co-founding PayPal...

Everything About Robert Herjavec

Robert Herjavec is more than a TV investor—he’s a self-made builder with real grit. His career spans cybersecurity,...
Recommended Books by Oprah Winfrey

Recommended Books by Oprah Winfrey for Business Leaders

Oprah Winfrey’s book recommendations challenge leaders to think deeper and lead smarter. She reads to connect strategy with...
About Emma Grede

Everything About Emma Grede

Emma Grede built her brand on inclusivity, strategy, and fearless execution. From Good American to SKIMS, she’s reshaping...

Everything about Rick Ross

Rick Ross built his name on music—but his empire goes far beyond the mic. From chart-topping albums to...
About Gary Vaynerchuk

Everything About Gary Vaynerchuk

Gary Vaynerchuk built his brand by staying loud, fast, and deeply authentic. From wine to Web3, his path...
About Grant Cardone

Everything About Grant Cardone

Grant Cardone built his brand on volume, confidence, and nonstop execution. From real estate to sales training, his...

Recommended Books by Robert Herjavec

Robert Herjavec reads with the same energy he brings to business-fast, focused, and driven. His picks are about...
About Michael Rubin

Everything About Michael Rubin

Michael Rubin built his empire by moving fast, thinking big, and staying customer-first. From Fanatics to major sports...
small business quotes

9 Small Business Quotes To Inspire Entrepreneurs

Running a small business means staying inspired through the highs and the grind. Great quotes can remind you...
Recommended Books by Biaheza

Recommended Books by Biaheza

What does Biaheza read while building in public and scaling fast? His favorite books dive into money, mindset,...
About Leila Hormozi

Everything About Leila Hormozi

Leila Hormozi is more than a business partner—she’s the backbone behind high-growth companies. She scaled fast by leading...