Sam Walton

Samuel Moore Walton (1918–1992) was an American businessman best known as the founder of Walmart and Sam’s Club. Born in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, he grew up in Missouri and earned a business degree from the University of Missouri. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Walton entered retail, operating variety stores before opening his first Walmart Discount City store in Rogers, Arkansas, in 1962. He expanded the company through a focus on low prices, high-volume sales, and efficient distribution. In 1983 he launched Sam’s Club, a membership warehouse retailer. Walton remained closely involved in operations as Walmart grew into a national chain.