In 1863, our company started out as the National Union Life and Limb Insurance Company – insuring Civil War soldiers and sailors. When the Civil War ended, our focus shifted to the Life insurance business. Our company became known as Metropolitan Life Insurance in 1868.
By 1909, we became the nation’s largest life insurer based on insurance in force.
During WWII, we placed more than 50% of our total assets into war bonds and were the largest single private contributor to the Allied cause. After the war, we expanded our suburban presence and refocused our business to serve all market segments and group insurance policies.
We serve approximately 100 million customers and have operations in nearly 50 countries. As a global company, we hold leading market positions in the U.S., Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and Middle East.
We are one of two partners in one of the world's leading international employee benefits networks, MAXIS Global Benefits Network, with a presence in over 110 countries.
Navigating business using our steadfast corporate values, we continue to grow our business with focus, innovation and profitability. These values are based on over 150 years of integrity, social responsibility, strong leadership and financial strength.