Sharing America’s story through Georgia’s history

Georgia history is American history. From colonial times through the Civil War and its aftermath to the present day, few states can boast of the impact that Georgia and its people have had on the political, cultural, and economic history of our nation.

To fully understand the United States in the 21st Century—where we are today and why—it helps to understand Georgia.

The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) is the premier independent statewide educational and research institution responsible for collecting, examining, and teaching Georgia and American history. Founded in 1839, the Georgia Historical Society is the oldest continuously operating historical society in the South and one of most prestigious in the nation.

Making the past relevant to the present is at the core of our mission. Through our award-winning public programs, publications, teacher training, and research services, we aim to use the power of our shared history to offer all Americans new and deeper perspectives on the past and present.

We Believe in the Value of History

As a nationally recognized educational and research institution, GHS is committed to teaching the full story of America’s past in the firm belief that an unflinching examination of our nation’s successes, as well as our failures, is crucial to maintaining our democratic republic and encourages us to live up to our ideals and aspirations. We believe being honest about the past can heal and unite us as Americans.