American Smelting and Refining Company

American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) was a major American enterprise that specialized in extracting metals like copper from ore and refining them into usable products. Founded in the early 20th century, it operated large-scale smelting plants and mining operations across the southwestern United States. ASARCO played a key role in developing the metal industry, providing essential materials for electrical wiring, construction, and manufacturing. In the 1980s, it faced financial difficulties, leading to restructuring and eventual acquisition by other companies. Today, the ASARCO name remains associated with copper refining, primarily through its subsidiaries.