History
In the winter of 1839, Charles Goodyear accidentally discovers that the addition of heat and sulphur alters the consistency of rubber, later to be known as the vulcanization process.
1839
1898
In 1898 ‘The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company’ is founded by Frank Seiberling in Akron, Ohio USA. He names it after Charles Goodyear, the inventor of vulcanized rubber.
The process to find a suitable trademark results in The Goodyear Wingfoot – inspired by the winged foot of the Roman God, Mercury.
1900
1901
Goodyear tires were Henry Ford's choice in 1901 for his car that won in a Detroit Driving Club race.
Rubber soles and heels production started
1905
1909
Goodyear develops first pneumatic rubber airplane tire, which replaces sled runners and bicycle tires aviation pioneers were then using.
The first Goodyear blimp is built; marking the beginning of one of the world’s best known advertising icons.
1912
1916
Goodyear becomes the world's largest tire company, initiates slogan "More people ride on Goodyear tires than on any other kind."
The Akron Wingfoots - now one of the oldest basketball teams in the US - was founded by the employees of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
1918
1926
Goodyear becomes the world’s largest rubber company.
Goodyear makes a name for itself in aviation due to involvement in the war efforts.
1942
1951
First $1 billion sales year for Goodyear and the industry.
Goodyear experiments with synthetic resins led to polyester tire cord, clothing and other products.
1962
1963
"Go, Go, Goodyear" advertising theme introduced.
Goodyear put the first tire on the moon equipping the Apollo 14 Modular Equipment Transporter.
1971
1997
Deal signed with NASCAR, making Goodyear the "exclusive tire supplier" of NASCAR's top three race divisions.
Goodyear and NASA develop an airless "spring tire" for use on Mars and the moon.
2009
2017
Goodyear is named by Fortune Magazine as the "World's Most Admired Tire Maker."