The World Around Us

​​On January 27, 1888, the National Geographic Society was founded in Washington, D.C. The purpose was to increase Americans' geographic knowledge, even as Americans increased their interest in scientific knowledge through adventure and invention. In 1886, Karl Benz invented the gasoline powered engine; geographic knowledge would help car buyers in the coming years decide where they wanted to go. John J. Loud invented the ballpoint pen in 1888, making it easier to take a pen on your travels. But how would this Society spread geographic knowledge?

Through National Geographic Magazine.

At first, the magazine had very few readers, mostly because the articles were short and filled with technical jargon. But in 1899, the format changed to include longer articles written for the masses and filled with photographs. The magazine was the first to print color photographs of the world in which we live.

Revenue from the magazine, with over 2 million readers within the first few years, financed explorations and research projects. The NGS helped fund Robert Peary's trip to the North Pole, Jacques Cousteau's undersea adventures, and Jane Goodall's work with chimpanzees. Today, the magazine's circulation is close to 9 million, and the NGS is one of the world's largest non-profit scientific and educational institutions.

Many millions of people enjoy reading the monthly magazine, and many people participate in the annual photography contest. The rules for 2017 are not yet posted, but you can browse previous years' winners and get some ideas for your own photographs. Or maybe simply inspiration for your next adventure.