The evolution of social media has transformed the way individuals and businesses interact, communicate, and market themselves. From its humble beginnings in the late 1990s, social media platforms have developed from simple networking sites into complex ecosystems that influence everyday life and business strategies. Early platforms like Six Degrees and Friendster laid the groundwork for social interaction online, allowing users to create profiles and connect with friends. As the internet gained popularity, so did the desire for more interactive and engaging online experiences, leading to the emergence of platforms like MySpace, which introduced customizable profiles and multimedia sharing.

The significant turning point in social media evolution came with the launch of Facebook in 2004. It revolutionized the landscape by combining personal networking with a user-friendly interface, quickly becoming a dominant platform. Facebook's introduction of the News Feed changed how users consumed content, making it easier to stay updated with friends and brands alike. This shift also marked the beginning of social media as a marketing tool, as businesses recognized the potential to reach targeted audiences through organic posts and later, paid advertising. This era ignited a new wave of digital marketing strategies that prioritized engagement and brand presence on social platforms.