Established in 1850 in New York City, American Express Company was among the first and most successful express delivery businesses to
arise during the rapid westward expansion of the United States.
The story of American Express is a fascinating one, filled with interesting and sometimes quirky characters who -- through a combination of brains,
perseverance and luck -- shaped the company's development during the past century and a half.
The express company that forwarded freight and valuables evolved into a company that created and sold financial products like money orders
and travelers cheques. Following an era of international expansion, the company became an entity perhaps best known for its charge card.
Today, American Express is a global payments company.
The attributes that today are the hallmarks of the American Express brand -- trust, integrity, security, quality, customer service --
all have their roots in this compelling story. In this history, as well, are the genesis and development of the company's aspiration
to become the world's most respected service brand.