William Hill
- Born:
- August 3, 1903, Birmingham, England
- Died:
- October 15, 1971, Newmarket, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Bookmaker, Entrepreneur
Early Life and Education
- Limited formal education; left school at age 12.
- Worked various jobs including farming and at a BSA factory.
- Early exposure to gambling through illegal bookmaking activities.
Career and Major Achievements
- Founded William Hill betting shop in 1934 at a time when gambling was illegal.
- Pioneered credit betting and postal betting services.
- Expanded William Hill into a major UK bookmaking company.
- Oversaw the company's growth despite legal restrictions and social stigma surrounding gambling.
- William Hill, the company, became a publicly traded entity after his death.
Notable Works
- Establishment and development of the William Hill organization into a major player in the UK betting industry.
Legacy and Impact
William Hill's impact on the gambling industry is undeniable. He revolutionized betting practices in the UK, transforming it from a largely illegal activity into a mainstream form of entertainment. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approaches laid the foundation for the modern bookmaking industry. The phrase "del lagrace volcano biography of william hill" itself highlights the continued interest in his life and contributions, even decades after his death, showcasing the enduring legacy of his business acumen.
Ownership History of William Hill (Company)
While William Hill himself founded the company, its ownership has changed several times post his death.
| Year(s) | Owner | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 onwards (after his death) | Various entities | The company was sold several times after William Hill's death, becoming a publicly traded company and subsequently acquired by different organizations, including Brent Walker, Grand Metropolitan, and ultimately Caesars Entertainment. |