Who was the first person to invest in Google?

Andy Bechtolsheim is recognized as the first investor in Google, primarily due to his early recognition of the potential of the company's search engine technology. In 1998, shortly after Google was founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Bechtolsheim, a co-founder of Sun Microsystems, wrote a check for $100,000 to the company even before it was officially incorporated. This investment was critical in providing the initial funding necessary for Google to develop its operations and ultimately grow into the technology giant it is today. His early belief in Google's innovative approach to search technology set the stage for the company's success and development in the ensuing years.

The other figures mentioned have significant roles in the tech industry but did not have the same pioneering investment connection with Google as Bechtolsheim. Bill Gates, for example, is more associated with Microsoft and its competitive dynamics with other tech companies, while Steve Jobs is known for his groundbreaking work with Apple. Mark Zuckerberg is best known for founding Facebook and did not play a direct role in Google's early investment phase.