Caterpillar
Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) — Corporate History
Origins & Founding
The roots of Caterpillar date back to the 1920s. In 1925, the Caterpillar Tractor Co. was formed in California through the merger of the Holt Manufacturing Company (founded 1886 by Benjamin Holt, who pioneered the first practical tracked tractor/caterpillar in 1904) and the C.L. Best Tractor Co. The name "Caterpillar" was originally a trademark Holt registered in 1910.
Growth & Evolution
Caterpillar expanded rapidly, introducing diesel-powered tractors in the 1930s and supplying massive earthmoving equipment for U.S. military efforts during WWII. In 1986, the company was reincorporated as Caterpillar Inc. In 2010, it moved its world headquarters from Peoria to Deerfield, Illinois, USA.
Today
Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. It also operates a vast global dealer network—the largest in its industry—providing parts, service, and financing through Cat Financial. Caterpillar serves customers in more than 190 countries.