re #6, that's actually a PR myth: According to one myth, the site came into being because Mr Omidyar's fiancee, Pam Wesley, wanted to contact other people who

re #6, that's actually a PR myth: According to one myth, the site came into being because Mr Omidyar's fiancee, Pam Wesley, wanted to contact other people who shared her hobby of trading Pez sweet dispensers. That story was a product of public relations - but it is true that the first item sold was Mr Omidyar's own broken laser pointer, which went for $14 despite being essentially worthless." Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/low/business/4207510.stm http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/low/business/4207510.stm