Steve Jobs’ FBI File and Pixar’s Top Secret Security Clearance
This is going to sound very much like a crazy conspiracy theory, but that only makes it even better.
In 1991, Steve Jobs was being considered for an appointment to the President’s Export Council by President George H. W. Bush. As a part of the appointment process, Jobs had to undergo an FBI background investigation (common procedure for Presidential appointments). The 191-page file compiled by the FBI was recently released, thanks to a Freedom of Information Act request submitted by Wired Magazine and a few other media outlets.
You can see the full report here (thanks, Gawker), but it’s pretty long and for the most part, not super surprising. It is; however, full of references to his unrelenting determination to get his way through any means possible, including dishonesty, deceit and manipulation. Some examples:
Several individuals questioned Mr. Jobs’ honesty stating that Mr. Jobs will twist the truth and distort reality in order to achieve his goals.
and
[Redacted] advised that he has been acquainted with Mr. Jobs since [redacted]. He characterized Mr. Jobs as a deceptive individual who who is not completely forthright and honest.
and
They further stated that Mr. Jobs has integrity as long as he gets his way.
Just to clarify, it wasn’t all negative. There were also those who attested to his moral fortitude and integrity. Also, regardless of his character, he was a hell of a designer and businessman. (You can read my piece on him written after his death here).
Despite all of the references to his untrustworthiness, lack of integrity, etc., not one person said he would not be good for the job. In fact, most highly recommended him, despite their personal feelings about him.
Another interesting fact, he also apparently had a 2.65 GPA in High School. Slackers, rejoice!