The Mega-Brands That Built America returns to History this Sunday, June 29, at 9:00 PM ET, turning its focus to an invention that forever changed the workplace. The episode, Rise of the Office Machines, tells the unlikely story of a previously unknown company that introduced the world’s first photocopier in the mid-20th century.
The series, known for uncovering the origins of hugely successful businesses, now looks at how this singular innovation simplified daily office tasks. Before its arrival, making copies was a laborious, messy process. This new device revolutionized how businesses handled documents, making efficiency accessible in ways previously unimagined.
Through a blend of expert interviews, never-before-seen archival footage, and high-quality recreations, the episode traces the journey of this groundbreaking technology. It highlights the challenges faced by the creators and the initial skepticism before their invention became a staple in offices worldwide.
Ultimately, this obscure company grew into a household name because of its revolutionary contribution to modern work. The episode explores how one idea can transform an entire industry and become indispensable to daily operations.
