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Introduction

History of Credit Cards

When did the first credit cards appear?

In the late 1800s, business owners used charge plates in order to advance credit for the purchase of items in their stores. By the 1900s, oil companies and retail stores began issuing paper cards that allowed the bearer to purchase goods and pay at a later date. They could only be used at the particular business that issued the card or at limited locations. In 1950, Diners Club began, and was the first card used for general travel and entertainment. Both American Express and BankAmericard (now Visa) began issuing their own competitive credit cards in 1958.



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