Decades ago, the Internet was just a far-fetched idea, a concept too futuristic to comprehend. Fast forward to today, and the internet has become an essential part of our lives, providing access to an unprecedented wealth of digital resources and connections. Emmitt McHenry, a black man, paved the way for the iconic .com domain.
Emmitt McHenry was born in Forest City, Arkansas in 1943 into a family with deep roots in service and community. Raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he embarked on his journey towards academic and professional excellence early on. After graduating from Booker T. McHenry’s Washington High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in communications from the University of Denver in 1966. He then served as a lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.
In 1979, McHenry co-founded the engineering firm Network Solutions with several partners. The road to success was not without its challenges, as they faced financial hurdles and relied on personal sacrifice to keep their dreams alive. But their perseverance paid off when they signed a landmark agreement with the National Science Foundation to develop the world’s first Internet domain name addressing system, Fun Times Magazine reported.
McHenry’s visionary leadership and technical prowess played a pivotal role in shaping the digital environment we know today. He spearheaded the development of his computer code that paved the way for the “.com” domain, revolutionizing the way we access the Internet and communicate online. Thanks to McHenry’s innovative contributions, Network Solutions has become the exclusive domain name registrar for .com, .net, .edu, .gov, and .org domains, positioning it as a pioneer in the rapidly growing Internet industry. I have solidified my position.
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In 1995, Emmitt McHenry faced significant financial difficulties when Network Solutions was sold to Science Applications International Corp (SAIC) for $4.8 million. Immediately after the acquisition, the government authorized his SAIC to charge $70 per year per domain name and receive royalties on additional domain names. The request echoed Mr. McHenry’s previous proposal to the government. With millions of individuals and businesses seeking domain names, SAIC found itself in a favorable position by attracting multiple bidders. Ultimately, VeriSign Inc. emerged as the main beneficiary, turning his initial $4.8 million investment in SAIC into his $21 billion windfall in less than a year.
McHenry’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership span a variety of industries and global initiatives. From founding his NetCom Solutions International, a leading telecommunications and engineering company, to serving on prestigious boards and committees, McHenry’s influence transcends national borders.
Currently, as chairman of broadband communications company VisuTel, Mr. McHenry continues to champion innovation and excellence through his involvement in numerous organizations dedicated to economic development and technological advancement, HistoryMakers reported.
Emmitt McHenry, 540westmain.org
