National Geographic Society
History
The National Geographic Society (NGS) is a globally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of geography and world culture. Established on January 27, 1888, in Washington, D.C., by a group of eminent scholars and explorers, the society has been instrumental in fostering public interest in geography, archaeology, natural science, and environmental conservation.
The society's founding members, including Alexander Graham Bell, Gardiner Greene Hubbard, and Gilbert H. Grosvenor, were driven by a shared belief in the power of science and exploration to unravel the mysteries of the world. Their vision was to create a platform that would "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," while promoting the conservation of the world's cultural, historical, and natural resources.
Mission and Work
The National Geographic Society has been at the forefront of scientific and educational endeavors globally. Its mission is to inspire people to care about the planet by providing them with a deeper understanding of it. The society achieves this through its various initiatives, including funding groundbreaking research, implementing conservation projects, and promoting education and public engagement.
The society's work is organized into three main areas: exploration, education, and storytelling. Its Exploration program funds and supports scientists, conservationists, and explorers who work on projects that expand our understanding of the world and its inhabitants. The Education program aims to foster geographic literacy among students and educators, while the Storytelling program leverages the power of photography, journalism, film, and digital media to share the stories of the world's most pressing challenges and the solutions to address them.
Publications and Media
One of the most well-known aspects of the National Geographic Society is its publication of the National Geographic Magazine. First published just nine months after the society's establishment, the magazine has become one of the most widely read and respected publications in the world, known for its in-depth articles, stunning photography, and rigorous fact-checking.
In addition to the magazine, the society also publishes other periodicals such as National Geographic Traveler, National Geographic Kids, and National Geographic History. It also produces a range of media content, including television programs, films, books, maps, and digital media, through its subsidiary, National Geographic Partners.
Impact and Influence
Over its long history, the National Geographic Society has had a profound impact on our understanding of the world. It has funded more than 13,000 research, conservation, and exploration projects, and its explorers and scientists have made numerous significant discoveries. These include the underwater exploration of the Titanic wreck, the discovery of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, and the breakthroughs in the study of DNA and human genetics.
The society's educational initiatives have also played a crucial role in promoting geographic literacy and fostering a sense of global citizenship among millions of students and educators around the world. Its media platforms reach over 700 million people each month, inspiring them to care about the planet and take action to protect it.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the National Geographic Society remains committed to its mission of inspiring people to care about the planet. It continues to invest in bold people and transformative ideas in the fields of science, exploration, education, and storytelling. The society is also increasingly leveraging technology and innovation to expand its reach and impact, and to engage with new audiences around the world.
