“The bridge was back during Microsoft’s anti-trust prosecution with Judge Jackson. A bridge loan, that allowed Microsoft to point out they had competion, was money well spent.”
I looked at all the dates and you are right. Gates loaning Apple 150 millions, was designed to weaken the USG anti-trust case against Microsoft. In fact maybe Bill called Steve to propose the 150 millions loan. That benefitted both parties.
The bridge loan ended existing litigation between Microsoft & Apple.
YouTube has the Macworld Boston presentation with Bill Gates on the projection screen co-announcing the deal. You might want to look at it.
A monument to Judge Jackson should be erected in Redmond, next to Microsoft HQ.