Prudential was originally established in 1848 during the reign of Queen Victoria as Prudential Mutual Assurance, Investment and Loan Association. The company was founded to offer life assurance and loans to the middle classes and a few years later established its industrial department. Here, the company sold insurance to the working classes and became synonymous with "Man from the Pru" door-to-door sales. Over the years Pru purchased various companies and in the 1920s listed on the London Stock Exchange. With the divestments of Jackson and Municipal & General Securities Company, Pru is returning to some historical roots. The company focuses on selling health and protection as attachments to long-term savings to upper,- middle-, and working classes.
