The Entire History of Toyota in 20 minutes

Toyota history is defined by its near-collapse in 1950. We trace how the brand survived a crisis to become a global powerhouse. In June 1950, the company faced a severe financial crisis that threatened its very existence. Labor disputes, massive protests, and internal unrest pushed the manufacturer to the brink of failure, forcing the resignation of founder Kiichiro Toyota during the most difficult period of his career. To survive, the company had to rethink its entire approach to automotive manufacturing. We examine the early struggles and the difficult decisions that preceded the brand's eventual rise, moving from an era of deep uncertainty to the successful operations we recognize today. Subscribe for weekly history breakdowns, and let us know in the comments which automotive legacy you want to explore next.