Canon was founded in 1937 in Japan as Precision Optical Instruments Laboratory by Takeshi Mitarai, Goro Yoshida, Saburo Uchida, and Takeo Maeda. Initially focused on developing high-quality cameras, the company introduced Japan's first 35mm camera with a focal-plane-based shutter, paving the way for future optical innovations. During this period, the company formed significant technological foundations that would spearhead future growth in various imaging sectors. Over the decades, Canon expanded its product line and technological capability. In the 1960s, Canon entered the photocopier market, followed by producing the world’s first inkjet printer in the 1980s. This diversification proved to be a remarkable success, reinforcing Canon's reputation as a formidable player in imaging and printing technology worldwide.