Bayer
Bayer AG, a global life science company, has evolved from its origins in dyestuffs to become a pharmaceutical and agricultural giant, impacting public health and crop science for over a century and a half.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1863
- Founder
- Friedrich Bayer
- Origin
- Germany
Founders
Story Chapters
Timeline
Bayer Founded
Friedrich Bayer and Johann Friedrich Weskott founded Bayer in Barmen, Germany, as a manufacturer of synthetic dyestuffs.
Aspirin Trademarked
Bayer registers 'Aspirin' as a trademark, marking the introduction of one of the most successful drugs in history.
IG Farben Formation
Bayer merges with five other companies to form IG Farben, becoming part of the world's largest chemical conglomerate.
Post-War Reestablishment
Following World War II, Bayer is reestablished as an independent company after the dissolution of IG Farben.
Introduction of Ciprofloxacin
Bayer introduces Ciprofloxacin, a groundbreaking antibiotic that becomes widely used to treat bacterial infections.
Acquisition of Aventis CropScience
Bayer acquires Aventis CropScience, significantly expanding its agricultural business and becoming a leader in crop protection.
Schering Acquisition
Bayer acquires Schering AG, enhancing its pharmaceutical division and strengthening its position in the healthcare market.
150th Anniversary
Bayer celebrates its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of innovation and growth in pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
Monsanto Acquisition
Bayer announces the acquisition of Monsanto, aiming to create a global leader in agriculture and biotechnology.
COVID-19 Response
Bayer contributes to the global fight against COVID-19 by supporting vaccine production and research efforts.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and treaties that share history with this company.
Civilization Archive
(2)Austrian Empire
Bayer's establishment during the Austrian Empire's transformation highlights the era's industrialization and its impact on European pharmaceutical advancements.
Byzantine Empire
Byzantine trade routes and commerce practices set precedents for European markets, which Bayer later navigated during its early expansion.
Conflict Archive
(1)
Lineage Archive
(2)House of Habsburg
The Habsburgs' influence on Central European politics indirectly shaped market conditions and competition Bayer faced in the 19th century.
House of Hohenzollern
The Hohenzollern dynasty's industrialization policies in Prussia provided Bayer with the infrastructure and regulatory environment to thrive.
Treaty Archive
(2)Treaty of Frankfurt
The Treaty of Frankfurt's terms favored German industry, facilitating Bayer's expansion by securing indemnities and territorial gains for Germany.
Treaty of Versailles (1919)
The Treaty of Versailles imposed reparations on Germany, forcing Bayer to innovate and adapt to survive in a strained economy.
Explore Related Archives
Great companies don't emerge in a vacuum. They rise from the foundations of civilizations, the ambitions of rulers, and the aftermath of conflicts. Explore the historical context: