Jeep's history dates back to World War II when the U.S. military needed a reliable and versatile vehicle for reconnaissance and transport. Bantam, Willys, and Ford produced the first prototypes, but it was the Willys MB that became the standard military jeep, renowned for its durability and off-road capability. The term "jeep" originated as military slang, possibly derived from "GP" (General Purpose vehicle), and it quickly became the colloquial name for these rugged vehicles. After the war, Willys-Overland launched the CJ (Civilian Jeep) series, capitalizing on the popularity of the military vehicle among returning soldiers and civilians alike. This introduction helped establish Jeep's commercial presence, solidifying its reputation. Over the years, Jeep's line expanded with models like the Jeep Wagoneer, Cherokee, and the iconic Jeep Wrangler. Despite changes in ownership—from Willys-Overland to Kaiser Jeep, then to American Motors Corporation, Chrysler, DaimlerChrysler, and currently Stellantis—the Jeep brand has consistently been associated with adventure and freedom, deeply embedded in American culture.