The Willys Overland Company, later known as Willys-Overland Motors, had a fascinating journey that included becoming the second-largest automaker in the US for a time and giving birth to the iconic Jeep. Here's a breakdown of their history:

Early Days (1908-1918):

• 1908: John North Willys purchases the Overland Automotive Division, forming the Willys-Overland Motor Company in 1912.
• By 1918, Willys-Overland becomes the second-largest US automaker behind Ford, thanks to their affordable and reliable vehicles.
• 1913: They acquire a license to build the innovative Knight sleeve-valve engine, used in their Willys-Knight line.

Ups and Downs (1919-1930s):

• The 1920s see the introduction of the Willys-Overland Whippet, a successful line of small cars.
• The Great Depression hits hard, forcing the closure of Stearns-Knight (1929) and Whippet (1931).
• Willys-Overland attempts to stay afloat with the Willys Six and Eight models.

Bankruptcy and Transformation (1930s-1940s):

• The company undergoes reorganization in 1936 after facing bankruptcy during the Depression.
• 1940 becomes a turning point. Willys wins a contract to build the iconic Jeep based on a design by Bantam Car Company.
• Over 360,000 Jeeps are produced for World War II by 1945.

Post-War Era and The Jeep Legacy (1940s-1960s):

• 1945: Willys starts producing the civilian Jeep lineup, beginning with the CJ2A model.
• The company expands its Jeep offerings with Wagons, Trucks, and the short-lived Jeepster.
• 1949: The CJ3A introduces the concept of a four-wheel-drive station wagon, considered a precursor to the modern SUV.
• 1953: Kaiser Motors acquires Willys-Overland, dropping "Overland" from the name. Jeep production continues under Kaiser-Jeep Corporation until 1965.

Willys-Overland's legacy is undeniable. They not only brought affordable cars to the masses but also created the Jeep, a vehicle synonymous with off-road capability and durability. Even after their name faded, the Jeep continues to be a beloved brand with a rich history rooted in the Willys-Overland story.