John Draper, also known as “Captain Crunch,” is a notable figure in the hacking and cybersecurity communities. Below is a chronological timeline of his significant public engagements and contributions:
Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 | Esquire Magazine Feature | Journalist Ron Rosenbaum’s article “Secrets of the Little Blue Box” profiled Draper’s phone phreaking activities, bringing him significant attention |
| 1972 | Collaboration with Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs | Draper met with Wozniak and Jobs to discuss blue box technology, leading to their small business selling these devices. |
| 1977 | Apple Computer Contract | Worked as an independent contractor for Apple, developing the “Charlie Board,” an interface device intended to connect the Apple II to phone lines. |
| 1979 | Development of EasyWriter | While on a work-release program, Draper wrote EasyWriter, the first word processor for the Apple II. |
| 1983 | The First Computer Freaks (June ’83 Esquire magazine) | Read The June 1983 Esquire Magazine Article |
| 1984 | The Hackers Conference | Attended the inaugural Hackers Conference in Marin County, California, organized by Stewart Brand. This gathering included notable figures like Steve Wozniak and Richard Stallman. |
| 1996-07-29 | Art Bell Interview | Featured on the “Art Bell Classic” show, discussing his experiences and insights into hacking. |
| 2011 | Scene World Interview | Participated in an interview with Scene World, sharing his history in phone phreaking and demonstrating the Captain Crunch whistle. |
| 2015-10-03 | Vintage Computing Festival Berlin | Presented “Captain Crunch History,” sharing insights into his experiences with phone phreaking and early hacking culture. |
| 2016-12-30 | Scene World: John Draper Interview | Discussed his contributions to the hacking community and demonstrated the Captain Crunch whistle. |
| 2023-09-01 | YouTube Feature: “Meet the First Hacker in History also Known as Captain Crunch” | A video detailing Draper’s early hacking activities and his influence on the hacker community. |
