Did you know that the concept of trading stocks dates back to 12th century France? Merchants would gather in the streets of Paris to exchange debts for agricultural businesses. The first formal stock exchange, however, was established in Amsterdam in 1602 with the Dutch East India Company. In the United States, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) was founded in 1792 under a buttonwood tree on Wall Street. This marked the beginning of organized trading in the U.S. stock market. Throughout its history, the NYSE has become the largest stock exchange in the world. The stock market crash of 1929, known as Black Tuesday, led to the Great Depression. This event highlighted the importance of regulations and transparency in the stock market, which led to the creation of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 1934. Computerized trading revolutionized the stock market in the late 20th century, allowing for faster transactions and increased market efficiency. Today, investors can buy and sell stocks through online platforms within seconds. The stock market continues to play a vital role in the global economy, providing companies with capital to grow and allowing individuals to invest in their financial future. Understanding the history of the stock market can provide valuable insights into its functions and impact on society.