The founding of General Motors on September 16, 1908, drew little attention. Motorcar firms were appearing virtually everywhere.

Success for the young automotive concern was not predestined. There was no guarantee of a place in the market or assurance of any profit. Of the nearly 1,000 companies that tried to build and sell motor vehicles prior to 1927, less than 200 continued in business long enough to even offer a commercially suitable vehicle.

Most of the companies that comprised the young General Motors Company were weak,