Kiichiro Toyoda's father Sakichi Toyoda invented the automatic loom in a backyard shed, mainly because he wanted to help his mother, who often was weaving in their home.

NPR: AP Interview: Toyota Chief Stresses Safe Growth

Toyota Industries, known until 2001 as Toyoda Automatic Loom Works (precursor of the auto giant), assembles cars and makes auto parts, forklifts and, as the former name suggests, textile manufacturing gear.

FORBES: A-Lister Inside

Toyota, which started as a division of the Toyota Automatic Loom Works, managed to develop a worldwide presence and reputation, survived a number of seismic recalls and some actual seismic activity is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

FORBES: Toyota's Family Tree

The US defence department says it has begun laying off most of its 46, 000 temporary employees, as automatic defence budget cuts loom in March.

BBC: Pentagon laying off 46,000 staff