Facebook, now operating under the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc., is a pioneering American social media and technology organization that has fundamentally reshaped global communication and digital marketing. Founded in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg and four Harvard University classmates, Facebook began as a campus networking site before rapidly expanding to become the world’s largest social network. Its mission—to connect people and foster human interaction—has driven its evolution from a simple online directory into a multifaceted digital ecosystem. Facebook’s core platform enables users to create profiles, share content, join groups, and interact with friends and communities worldwide. Over the years, it has introduced groundbreaking features such as News Feed, Messenger, Marketplace, and Reels, continually adapting to user behavior and technological trends. The organization has also expanded its reach through acquisitions, including Instagram and WhatsApp, making Meta one of the most influential tech conglomerates globally. Facebook’s achievements are monumental: it was the first social network to surpass one billion users and now boasts over 3.07 billion monthly active users as of 2025. It ranks as the third-most-visited website worldwide and remains the second-largest digital ad platform, generating over $116 billion in ad revenue annually. Its robust advertising tools and e-commerce integrations, such as Facebook Shops and Marketplace, have made it indispensable for businesses seeking global reach and measurable ROI. Despite facing criticism over privacy, misinformation, and content moderation, Facebook continues to innovate, introducing AI-powered features, new monetization options for creators, and advanced ad targeting. Its enduring popularity, especially among millennials and Gen Z, and its ongoing expansion into virtual reality and the metaverse, underscore its pivotal role in shaping the future of digital connection and commerce.