International Harvester 986

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The International Harvester Company (IH or International) was a pioneering American industrial powerhouse founded in 1902 through the merger of five leading agricultural equipment manufacturers, including the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company and Deering Harvester Company. This strategic consolidation created one of the largest agricultural machinery manufacturers in the world, with an immediate impact on the industry. International Harvester quickly became renowned for its innovative Farmall tractors, which revolutionized farming practices with their versatility and efficiency. The company's product line expanded to include the iconic Cub Cadet tractors, as well as the consolidated McCormick-Deering line that carried forward the legacy of its founding companies. Beyond its dominance in the agricultural sector, International Harvester was a major player in commercial vehicles, producing the popular Scout and Travelall automobiles, along with a wide range of trucks. The company's diverse portfolio also included lawn and garden equipment and household appliances, making it a household name across America. However, the 1980s brought significant challenges as the company faced financial difficulties. In response, International Harvester began divesting its divisions, starting with the sale of its construction equipment division to Dresser Industries in 1982. The pivotal moment came in 1984 when the farm equipment division was acquired by Tenneco's subsidiary, Case Corporation, leading to the formation of the Case IH brand. Today, Case IH is part of CNH Industrial, while the European division lives on as McCormick Tractors, owned by Italy's ARGO SpA. By 1986, International Harvester had transformed into Navistar International, focusing exclusively on trucks and engines.