J. Welles Wilder

J. Welles Wilder was an American mechanical engineer, author, and technical analyst who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the world of technical analysis. Born on June 14, 1929, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Wilder's interest in the financial markets began at an early age. After studying mechanical engineering at North Carolina State University, he went on to work as an engineer for several years before turning his attention to the world of finance.

Wilder's work in technical analysis began in the 1970s, when he developed a number of important technical indicators that are still widely used today. His most famous creations include the Average True Range (ATR), the Relative Strength Index (RSI), and the Parabolic SAR, but he is perhaps best known for the development of the Average Directional Movement Index (ADX).

Wilder's technical indicators were groundbreaking at the time because they provided traders and investors with a new set of tools to analyze the markets. Prior to the development of these indicators, technical analysis was largely based on chart patterns and subjective interpretations of market data. Wilder's work helped to usher in a new era of quantitative analysis that relied on objective, data-driven methods.

In addition to his work on technical analysis, Wilder was also an accomplished author. He wrote several books on the subject, including "New Concepts in Technical Trading Systems" and "The Delta Phenomenon", both of which are considered classics in the field. Wilder's writing was notable for its clarity and accessibility, and he was able to convey complex concepts in a way that was easy for readers to understand.

Wilder's contributions to the world of finance have had a lasting impact, and his work continues to be studied and used by traders and investors around the world. He passed away on April 14, 1995, but his legacy lives on through his work and the many traders and investors who have been inspired by his ideas.