History

Founded in 1886, North American has stood strong to help protect those who count on us for financial security. Through two world wars, the Great Depression, and multiple recessions, North American's private ownership and focus on the long term has instilled trust and confidence in those that depend on us.

1886 – Founded as North American Accident Association

1890 – A.E. Forrest purchased the company for $2,000 and appointed the company's first general agent

1918 – North American became the first company to offer a disability insurance policy for women

1981 – Actively enters the brokerage marketplace

1982 – North American introduces its first universal life product

1999 – Sammons Annuity Group, North American's Annuity Service Center, founded

2000 – Achieves $100 billion of life insurance in-force

2010 – Surpasses annual goal by 67% and ranks 30 in the Chicago Tribune's Top Places to Work 2010.