Western Electric

Western Electric was the manufacturing arm of the Bell System, founded in 1869 to produce telecommunication equipment. It played a crucial role in developing and manufacturing telephones, switchgear, and early electronic components, ensuring reliable communication infrastructure in the United States. Known for its engineering innovation and quality control, Western Electric supplied most of the equipment used by American telephone companies until the 1980s. Its work helped standardize and expand telephone networks nationwide. In 1984, it was divested as part of the break-up of AT&T, transitioning from a private manufacturer to a focus on telecommunications services.