Our History
Protection, purpose—and an iconic Duck
From a bold idea in Columbus, Georgia, to a globally recognized brand, Aflac’s history is defined by innovation, compassion, and a lasting commitment to helping people when they need us most.
Our History
Protection, purpose—and an iconic Duck
From a bold idea in Columbus, Georgia, to a globally recognized brand, Aflac’s history is defined by innovation, compassion, and a lasting commitment to helping people when they need us most.
A bold beginning (1955–1960s)
American Family Life was founded on November 17, 1955, by principal founder John Amos, together with his brothers, Paul and Bill Amos. Their mission was simple yet powerful: to help ease the financial burden of cancer for patients and their families.
In the late 1950s, Aflac was a pioneer of cancer insurance. During the 1960s, the company expanded beyond Georgia and helped define workplace sales through payroll deduction, a model that fueled Aflac’s long‑term growth.
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Expanding horizons (1970s–1990s)
In 1974, Aflac became the second foreign corporation licensed to operate in Japan and went public on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AFL). Both moves reshaped the company’s future and set the stage for global growth.
In 1989, the company officially adopted the acronym AFLAC, establishing a distinctive brand identity—though widespread consumer recognition would come later.
Aflac Japan today
The Aflac Duck: An icon is born (2000-present)
On January 1, 2000, the Aflac Duck made its debut and quickly became one of the most recognizable advertising icons in the world. What began as a simple commercial featuring a duck quacking the company’s name evolved into a powerful brand asset that transformed consumer awareness of Aflac and supplemental health insurance.
The Duck helped make insurance more approachable by combining humor, personality and memorable storytelling. Its impact was immediate, contributing to significant growth in brand recognition and helping Aflac reach new milestones in sales and customer engagement. Over the past 25 years, the Aflac Duck has appeared in more than 120 commercials, becoming a trusted symbol of the company’s commitment to helping people with expenses health insurance may not cover.
In 2003, the Aflac Duck expanded its reach internationally with a debut in Japan. Through localized campaigns and companion characters, the Duck helped deepen customer connections and strengthen Aflac’s presence in one of its most important markets.
Today, the Aflac Duck remains a beloved ambassador for the brand, continuing to raise awareness, build trust and bring a touch of personality to Aflac’s mission.
“Aflaaac!”
The first commercial starring the famous Aflac Duck, titled "Park Bench," debuted on January 1, 2000. The spot featured two office workers struggling to remember their supplemental insurance carrier name before the duck waddles up and squawks "Aflaaaac!"
A symbol of care and commitment
Since 1995, Aflac has supported the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Through contributions from the company, its foundation, employees, and sales force, Aflac has raised over $200 million in support for pediatric cancer research, treatment, and family‑centered care.
In 2018, Aflac expanded this mission with My Special Aflac Duck®, an award‑winning interactive companion designed to bring comfort and joy to children facing cancer and blood disorders, like sickle cell disease.
Aflac today
Today, Aflac is the No. 1 provider of supplemental health insurance in the United States1 and a leader in cancer and medical insurance in Japan.2 Headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, the company is guided by The Aflac Way—integrating financial performance with environmental stewardship, social impact, and strong governance.
A lasting promise
More than 70 years after its founding, Aflac’s promise remains unchanged: to be there for people when life takes an unexpected turn.