The John Deere Classic debuted on the PGA TOUR as the Quad Cities Open in 1971. The John Deere Classic is held annually in July, the week prior to the British Open. In 2005, the tournament's storyline revolved around young American golfer Sean O'Hair. His win qualified him to play in the British Open the following week and was a significant part of his PGA Rookie of the Year season.

The John Deere Classic was also one of the PGA TOUR events where Michelle Wie received a sponsor exemption to compete. The teenager was a part of the John Deere Classic field in 2005 and 2006.

The tournament’s champions list is impressive and includes some of the most recognized and in some cases, most decorated names in golf. Past champions include Deane Beman, Roger Maltbie, D.A. Weibring, Payne Stewart, Vijay Singh and Steve Stricker. Both Beman (1971, 1972) and Stricker (2009, 2010, 2011) are the only ones to have won the tournament in back-to-back years. At the same time, the John Deere Classic has been a breakthrough tournament for 18 tour players, who finally get their first victory on the PGA TOUR. 

The John Deere Classic is a certified 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Each year, the John Deere Classic raises millions of dollars and supports over 500 local and regional charities. In 2010, Local charities received $4.34 million from the event.