This story is part of the Iconic Brands series, a USA TODAY network project showcasing the companies and brands that helped shape the nation's identity, economy and culture. The series celebrates ...

Procter & Gamble stands as a premier defensive business, but its current ~$148 share price fully reflects its brand strength.

Procter & Gamble was formed in 1837 after a father-in-law suggested his two sons-in-law, a candlemaker and a soap maker, team up. The company pioneered product branding, starting with its Ivory soap ...

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. While Procter & Gamble today is known for icons like Tide detergent and Pampers diapers, in the 19 th century, the company was ...