Google AdWords Launch (2000)
Google launched its self-serve ad platform with about 350 advertisers.
DateOct 23, 2000
PlatformGoogle Ads
TypePlatform event
Who it affectsAll advertisers
What happened
Google launched AdWords in October 2000 as a self-service way to buy text ads alongside search results. It started with a few hundred advertisers and grew into the largest digital advertising platform.
Who it affected
All advertisers.
What it means for marketers today
The core idea, ads matched to what people are searching for, is still why search ads convert well for businesses with clear demand.
Related
See the full Google Ads History: Every Major Change (2000–2025)