Nike 

was founded on January 25, 1964, as Blue Ribbon Sports, by Bill Bowerman, a track and field coach, and Phil Knight, a middle-distance runner, at the time both affiliated with the University of Oregon. Initially, the company operated as a distributor for the Japanese shoe brand Onitsuka Tiger, now known as ASICS. In 1971, Blue Ribbon Sports rebranded itself as Nike, Inc., named after the Greek goddess of victory.

Nike gained prominence in the 1980s with the introduction of its revolutionary Air cushioning technology, which was incorporated into the Air Max line of sneakers. The brand's innovative and stylish designs, along with endorsements from high-profile athletes like Michael Jordan, propelled Nike to become a dominant force in the sports footwear and apparel industry.

Over the years, Nike has expanded its product offerings beyond athletic shoes to include a wide range of sports apparel, equipment, and accessories. The company caters to various sports such as basketball, running, soccer, tennis, golf, and more. Nike has also established itself in the lifestyle and fashion segments, collaborating with renowned designers and celebrities to create limited-edition collections and exclusive collaborations.

In addition to its core products, Nike has developed several subsidiaries and acquired popular brands. Some notable acquisitions include Converse Inc., known for its iconic Chuck Taylor All-Star sneakers, and Hurley International, a renowned surf and skate apparel brand.