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History

More than 180 years of agricultural innovation — from J.I. Case's first threshing machines to today's connected, autonomy-ready equipment.

  1. 1840-1870

    1840-1870

    1842: Jerome Increase Case founded the J.I. Case Company in Racine, Wisconsin, to manufacture threshing machines. These machines were designed to separate grain from straw, significantly improving agricultural productivity. 1863: Case introduced the first portable steam engine, which revolutionized farm mechanization by providing mobile power for various agricultural tasks. 1869: Case produced the first self-propelled traction engine, marking a significant advancement in steam-powered agricultural machinery.
  2. 1870-1900

    1870-1900

    1876: Case introduced the first steam-powered traction engine, capable of pulling plows and other farm equipment, which was a precursor to the modern tractor. 1884: Case became the world's largest producer of steam engines, cementing its place as a leader in agricultural technology. 1886: Case built the first road locomotive, which could be used both for agriculture and road construction. 1892: Case manufactured its first steam tractor, further advancing its line of steam-powered agricultural equipment.
  3. 1900-1920

    1900-1920

    1902: The J.I. Case Threshing Machine Company was incorporated. 1904: Case introduced the first gasoline-powered tractor, the Case 10-18, which marked the transition from steam to internal combustion engines in agriculture. 1911: Case expanded into construction machinery with the production of road-building equipment, diversifying its product line. 1919: Case introduced its first row-crop tractor, the Case Model "K".
  4. 1920-1940

    1920-1940

    1923: Case launched the industry’s first light tractor, the Case Model 10-18, which was more affordable for smaller farms. 1929: Case merged with the Rock Island Plow Company, enhancing its capabilities in producing a variety of agricultural implements. 1937: Case introduced the Model "CC" tractor, featuring a streamlined design and improved functionality. 1939: Case released the "V" series tractors, including the Case Model "VAC", one of the first row-crop tractors.
  5. 1940-1960

    1940-1960

    1942: During World War II, Case dedicated much of its production to the war effort, manufacturing military vehicles, aircraft parts, and other equipment. 1947: Case produced its first hydraulic backhoe, the Case Model "7", which became a standard in the construction industry. 1957: Case entered the wheel loader market, further expanding its construction equipment offerings. 1959: Case introduced the first factory-integrated loader/backhoe, the Case 320, revolutionizing the construction equipment market.
  6. 1960-1980

    1960-1980

    1964: Case unveiled the 580CK backhoe loader, which became one of the best-selling models in the company's history. 1967: Case celebrated its 125th anniversary, marking more than a century of innovation and growth. 1970: Case introduced the first power shift transmission for construction equipment, enhancing machine efficiency and operator control. 1977: Case expanded globally with the acquisition of UK-based David Brown Ltd, known for its reliable tractors and agricultural machinery.
  7. 1980-1990

    1980-1990

    1984: Tenneco Inc., the parent company of Case, acquired the agricultural division of International Harvester, leading to the formation of Case IH. 1985: Case IH was officially launched, combining the strengths and innovations of both Case and International Harvester. 1987: Case IH introduced the Magnum tractor series, setting new industry standards for power, durability, and operator comfort. 1988: The first Magnum tractor rolled off the assembly line, marking a significant milestone in agricultural engineering.
  8. 1990-2000

    1990-2000

    1995: Case IH launched the Quadtrac tractor, featuring a unique four-track system that improved traction and reduced soil compaction. 1999: Case IH merged with New Holland N.V. to form CNH Global, one of the world's largest agricultural equipment manufacturers, providing a comprehensive range of products under both brands.
  9. 2000-2010

    2000-2010

    2000: Case IH introduced the MX Series Magnum tractors, incorporating advanced electronic controls and improved performance features. 2006: Case IH launched the Steiger STX series, which became known for their power, versatility, and innovative technology. 2007: Case IH celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Magnum tractor series, highlighting its enduring popularity and success. 2008: The Axial-Flow combine celebrated its 30th anniversary, continuing to lead in innovative harvesting technology.
  10. 2010-2015

    2010-2015

    2011: Case IH introduced the Efficient Power range, featuring new Tier 4A/Stage IIIB compliant engines, which offered better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. 2013: Case IH launched the world’s first articulated tractor with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) technology, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use. 2015: Case IH introduced the new Optum tractor series, combining high horsepower with maneuverability and versatility.  
  11. 2016-2020

    2016-2020

    2017: Case IH revealed the Autonomous Concept Vehicle (ACV), showcasing the future of autonomous farming equipment and precision agriculture. 2018: Case IH introduced the AFS Connect technology, providing advanced telematics and data management solutions for modern farming operations. 2019: Case IH celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Magnum tractor, highlighting its continued impact on the agricultural industry.  
  12. 2020-Today

    2020-Today

    2020: Case IH released the AFS Connect Magnum series, featuring enhanced connectivity and data integration for precision farming. 2021: Case IH introduced the AFS Connect Steiger series, integrating more technology and user-friendly features to meet the demands of modern agriculture. 2022: Case IH celebrated its 180th anniversary, continuing to innovate in agricultural technology and equipment. 2023: Case IH expanded its product lineup with new models and enhancements, focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and advanced farming technologies.

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