MARCH 18

On this date in 1850, 10 years before the start of the Civil War, American Express was founded.  (Many years before plastic was discovered)  The founders were two businessmen who owned separate companies:  Henry Wells and William Fargo.  Two years later, they founded another company which they called Wells Fargo & Co.

Located in the Manhattan financial district of New York City, American Express delivered express packages, currency and securities within the area.  The company filled a need not provided by the U.S. Postal Service. 

In 1882,  American Express began supplying money orders to again complete with the USPS.  Nine years later, they introduced the concept of Travelers Cheques.  Not until 1958, did the company begin issuing the now famous credit cards (the first 'cards' were paper with the customers name and number typed). 

Today, American Express is involved in advertising, financial advising, travel advising, publishing and broadcasting.  Last year, AMEX had an operating income exceeding $6 billion. 
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