I am fascinated with the creation and history of Google. I have read several books and articles on the subject, and I’m fascinated with the overall influence Google has had on the world. Other than enjoying the subject however, there are 5 specific reasons I think everyone on the web should know the history of Google. Those who do will gain an advantage in their online efforts over their competition. But before I explain to you why, here is a short but cool video on the History of Google:

1. Better Understanding the Search Engine

There are so many theories on Search Engine Optimization it can make you dizzy. But the very best theories come from those who understand Google as a whole. They understand not only what Google is currently doing, but what Google is most likely going to do based on their history. Based on their overall goal with the Google Search Engine.

2. Understand Google’s Next Move

When you see what Google has done over the history of their existence, and you combine that with an understanding of what it is they are trying to carry out as an overall goal, you get a good idea of what their next move is. An example of this is the recent Google SideWiki project. The concept of ‘peer reviewed’ search results. Why would they want something like this? Knowing the history of the original ‘Back Rub’ search engine project will help you understand why.

3. See The Whole Google Vision

Some say that Google wants to “dominate the web” and that this is its primary goal. While that is most likely correct, there are some specifics to what that actually means. Google has found its success by providing the everyday user like you and me, the ability to search for information and have the most relevant information provided to us as possible.

They have accomplished this with a ‘do no evil’ standard within the company, doing whatever it takes to provide relevant search results and not tampering with the results in any way. In return Google has access to the largest amount of intelligence on people in the entire world, knowing exactly what people are searching for. That intelligence can now be used to provide new business opportunities throughout the world.

4. Be a Part of History

There are so many ways you can get involved. And the benefits of being involved are tremendous. Everything from starting a company that is eventually purchased by Google like YouTube, to working for Google as an employee, to being a test driver of new Google applications such as the new Google Wave Project. All of these are new opportunities to succeed in this new world of ours.

5. Motivation For You

Google just like any other company, started with nothing. Founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin were nobodies just like you and I. Google is a true American story. With this great country, Google would not be possible. Without some inner layer of motivation, desire, passion, and hard work from its founders, this huge thing called Google could not be possible.

Although it may be hard to realize now because of the massive size of what Google has become, understanding where it all started will motivate you to ‘keep on keepin on’ in your online efforts.

For more info on the history of Google you can refer to the Google Milestones page from Google Corporate and also the Official Google Timeline.