Sears, Roebuck and Company, commonly known as Sears, was an American retail giant founded in 1893. Initially starting as a mail-order catalog company, it quickly grew to offer a wide range of products, including clothing, appliances, and tools. The company became a staple in American shopping, especially in the mid-20th century, with numerous physical stores across the country. Over the years, Sears faced increasing competition from other retailers and changes in consumer behavior. Despite efforts to adapt, including online sales, the company struggled financially and filed for bankruptcy in 2018. Today, it operates a limited number of stores and continues to focus on its online presence.