krupp

Krupp is a German industrial group that originated as a steelworks and armaments manufacturer based in Essen. It was founded in 1811 by Friedrich Krupp and grew under the Krupp family to become one of the world’s leading steel producers and a major supplier of military equipment.

In the 19th century the company expanded from a small forge into an integrated steelworks. Under Alfred Krupp, who led the firm from the mid-1800s, Krupp adopted new production methods and built a large network of mills and plants. The company manufactured steel, cannons, armor plate, and other heavy machinery, and expanded internationally.

Krupp played a central role in Germany’s armaments programs during the two world wars. After World War I, armament production was constrained by the Treaty of Versailles; during World War II the company used forced labor and suffered extensive bomb damage. After the war, reconstruction and modernization continued under new management and ownership structures.

In 1999 the Krupp group joined with Thyssen to form ThyssenKrupp AG, and the Krupp name is now a historic brand within the larger corporation. ThyssenKrupp remains active in steel, engineering, and related sectors, with the Krupp legacy tied to its industrial heritage.