If there were one phrase that could encompass the magnitude and extent of MetLife's presence in the insurance industry it would be "long lasting". Since its founding in 1868, the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company has been making history with its innovative business tactics and remarkable achievements throughout the entire world, especially in inner city areas. MetLife's founder, Simeon Draper, had a vision of providing life and limb insurance to Union soldiers and sailors in the Civil War. Many years and numerous insurance policies later, his vision has expanded and steadily risen to the pinnacle of success due to the MetLife's country and community support, ability to discern profitable business ideas, and pioneering creativity.
             MetLife found its humble beginnings as the National Union Life and Limb Insurance Company. With just a conception and a few partners, Draper simply set out to ensure Civil War sailors and soldiers against disabilities due to wartime wounds, accidents and sickness (MetLife is Born). The demand for this type of service had already been established and assessed by other insurance companies like Prudential and Aetna. However, with the exception of New England Mutual, all insurance companies discouraged the insurance of soldiers due to the high risk attached to them. Following in New England Mutual's footsteps, National Union intended to write and actively solicit only military business. As major decisions were being made, the company faced numerous obstacles. The war was heightening with the North losing 17,287 soldiers in the defeat at Chancellorsville. This made it difficult for Draper to raise the $100,000 needed to deposit with the insurance department. Draper soon abandoned his efforts to launch National Life and Limb Insurance Company. However, others were optimistic about the venture and increased their support. There was a decision to reorganize and the company ...