The Jeep has a history of over 70 years. It ‘s prototype was first developed by Ford, Willys and Bantam for the American government at the start of World War I.
The very first Jeep was called the Willys MA. The name “Jeep” has a variety of theories of how it came about, but Chrysler Jeep theorized that the name originated in two parts, the first being military slang used at the time, as well as a character from the Popeye cartoons which were popular at the time. The slang term “jeep” was a word used to describe military equipment, even people, who were untried or unproven. Some people also think that it could be a shortening of the phrase “general purpose vehicle” referred to as a “GP”, eventually becoming “Jeep”. However it came about, “Jeep” is the name that stuck, and is the brand that we all identify with today.
Going forward, both Willys and Ford built the vehicles for the government, first the Willys MA, then a tweaked and perfected version, the Willys MB, with Ford producing the same vehicle, less some cosmetic differences. The Jeep served allied forces throughout the second world war, and was credited for being one of the most useful and adaptable tools in the war effort. Willys started mass marketing the Jeep early on, and as one might guess, it was an instant hit with civilians as well as the military.
The first “CJs” (civilian jeep) were produced in 1946, with marketing targeted to soldiers coming home from war, the agricultural community, and construction companies. Because of the CJ’s strength and hauling capacity, it was a good seller, even with military surplus on the market. As early as 1946, a number of models were being produced to market to the public, including a family station wagon. The jeep was now a common sight on the roads.
Through the years the Jeep brand has belonged to a number of different makers, but the integrity of design has remained largely intact. The familiar grill, round headlights (usually), and unparalleled offroading capabilities, Jeep remains the most popular choice among 4 wheeling enthusiasts.
