The document summarizes the story of how Coca-Cola was invented in 1886 by John Pemberton as a medicinal drink called Coca-Cola. Pemberton sold the rights to the formula for $2300 due to failing health. Over time, others like Asa Candler were able to leverage and market Coca-Cola as a popular soft drink, growing the company into being valued at over $115 billion today. The secret formula and ingredients of Coca-Cola have remained closely guarded since its invention.