1780–Today

Academy History

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Founded in 1780 in the midst of revolution, the Academy’s membership and work have changed greatly over the centuries while remaining faithful to a charter founded on ideals that celebrate the life of the mind, the importance of knowledge, and the belief that the arts and sciences are “necessary to the interest, honor, dignity and happiness of a free, independent and virtuous people.”

History of Our Members

The Academy is an honorary membership organization. Election to the Academy has always been an honor and a privilege. It is also a call to service.

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History of Our Work

The Academy is an independent organization, founded to help a nation address its greatest challenges and advance the public good. 

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This timeline features key developments regarding Academy members and work, and the institution itself. It is a work in progress.
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Archives of the Academy
The Archives of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences works to preserve, maintain, and make accessible a rich intellectual history dating back to 1780.
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Reckoning with Our History
The Academy is working to understand its history—the good and the bad—in the context of the nation it was created to serve.
Learn about the Commitment

The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation has provided generous support for preserving, digitizing, and sharing Academy history.