Bayer AG

is one of the most popular yet controversial companies in the world. Friedrich Bayer and Johann Friedrich Weskott founded the company in 1863 in Barmen, Germany (Bayer: A History, 2009). Bayer AG has been involved in the production of chemicals and pharmaceuticals since its establishment. The company remained successful in Germany before going international after 1881. Bayer AG enjoyed unquestionable international success establishing research centers in different parts of the world. Penetration into the North American market was particularly vital to the development of Bayer AG. The First World War and the development of harmful drugs became the downfall of Bayer AG in the United States.