1. Home
  2. Education
  3. 20th Century History

1950 - First Modern Credit Card Introduced

By , About.com Guide

First Modern Credit Card Introduced (1950): In 1949, Frank X. McNamara thought of a way for customers to have just one credit card that they could use at multiple stores. McNamara discussed the idea with two colleagues and the three pooled some money and started a new company in 1950 which they called the Diners Club.

The first Diners Club credit cards were given out in 1950 to 200 people (most were friends and acquaintances of McNamara) and accepted by 14 restaurants in New York. The concept of the card grew and by the end of 1950, 20,000 people were using the Diners Club credit card. The Diners Club credit card is considered the first modern credit card.

See full article: The First Modern Credit Card

Explore 20th Century History

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. 20th Century History

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.