Founding of Pepsi-Cola Company by Bradham

Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist and businessman from Duplin County, North Carolina, developed a soft drink that would later become known as Pepsi-Cola. Initially created in his pharmacy in New Bern, North Carolina, the drink was formulated as a refreshing tonic intended to aid digestion and boost energy. Bradham coined the name "Pepsi-Cola" in 1898, combining the word "pepsin," an enzyme that aids digestion, with "cola," referring to the flavor derived from kola nuts. The drink quickly gained popularity among locals, leading Bradham to recognize its commercial potential. In response to the growing demand, he established the Pepsi-Cola Company to market and distribute the beverage more widely. This move marked the beginning of a significant chapter in the soft drink industry, as Pepsi-Cola began to compete with other established brands.