Why does Europe (and possibly other continents) use different power sockets than North America?

Question

I never understood why it's different, any help is appreciated!

Answer 1

When electricity was first made available on a large scale around the world, the globe was basically divided into two areas.  One was for the profits of Westinghouse, and the other for Siemens.  They decided to use different voltage so that the other couldn't become a rival within the others turf.  It's all about blind greed the capitalistic way.