They are the names of different credit card companies.There are also American Express and Diner's Club cards.
All of the above (except Union Pay) is settled in USA (usu. New York) in US Dollar if you buy overseas
But Union Pay, a Chinese company, settles in RMB in Beijing.
A merchant/shop has to choose which one to accept as they all charge a set up fee and a commission.
Visa is now the most accepted card all over the world. ie. Most shops accept it, but not necessarily the other cards, as the shop have to pay each company separately to set up the service.