The National Geographic Society is founded in Washington, D.C.

The National Geographic Society, founded in Washington, D.C., is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. It was established by a group of 33 scholars, explorers, and scientists who sought to increase geographic knowledge and promote the understanding of the natural world. The Society’s flagship publication, National Geographic Magazine, was first published in October 1888 and became renowned for its in-depth articles, breathtaking photography, and maps that brought distant corners of the globe into homes and classrooms. Over the decades, the Society expanded its mission to include funding scientific research, exploration, and conservation efforts worldwide. Through its films, television programs, and digital platforms, it continues to inspire curiosity about the planet while fostering efforts to protect its diverse ecosystems and cultures. The National Geographic Society’s enduring legacy lies in its commitment to storytelling, science, and education.