In the beginning, 3M was called Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company. The founders, including five men named J. Gordon, H. B. St. John, and W. James, wanted to mine a mineral called garnet. However, when that didn't work out, they started making sandpaper instead! π
With hard work and
creativity, they expanded their products. One cool thing happened in 1945 when a scientist invented masking tape, which everyone loved! 3M went public in 1946, meaning people could buy shares of the company. Many innovative products followed, making 3M one of the greatest companies in the world! π€©