American Geographical Society

Founded in 1851, the American Geographical Society (AGS) is the oldest professional geographical organization in the United States. It is known globally as a pioneer in geographical research and education, whose mission is to link the business, government, professional, and scholarly worlds in the creation and application of geographical knowledge, methods, and techniques to address economic, social, and environmental problems.

For 158 years, the AGS has informed public policy. Specific priorities and programs evolve, but the commitment of service to government, the business community, and the world at large continues unchanged. Throughout World War I, President Woodrow Wilson commissioned the AGS to lead “The Inquiry,” a massive analysis of foreign intelligence to support the peace negotiations that would follow. As part of that effort, the AGS ...