Royal Institution

The Royal Institution, formally known as the Royal Institution of Great Britain, but often referred to simply as the Ri, is an organisation dedicated to the promotion of science amongst the public. Its original foci also included scientific research, but in the early 21st century, its focus is principally on public engagement. This entry provides an overview of the Royal Institution, including its origins and early years, organisational structure, and contemporary activities.

Origins and Early Years

The Ri was founded in 1799 by leading British scientists including Joseph Banks (then president of the Royal Society), in whose home the Ri first met, and Henry Cavendish (famous for the discovery of hydrogen gas). King George III was supportive of the Ri. In July 1799, 21 Albemarle Street, London, ...

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