The Establishment of the National Geographic Society for the Study of Earth, Humanity, and Wildlife

On 27 January 1888, the National Geographic Society was established in Washington DC. The purpose of this institution was to advance understanding of the world’s lands, mountains, rivers, cities, regions, and the human and wildlife populations inhabiting them, and to document this knowledge through systematic mapping. Prior to this, land was generally perceived as a static physical space. National Geographic introduced the idea that land could be measured, recorded with accuracy, and scientifically assessed to determine its most appropriate uses. As a result of this intellectual effort, a clearer understanding gradually emerged of where cities should expand, where roads should be constructed, where agriculture could develop most effectively, and how land value could be determined. In simple terms, National Geographic helped establish the idea that land is not merely soil, but a valuable asset that can be planned, analysed, and managed. In its early work, National Geographic produced accurate maps, conducted precise land measurements, and clarified where the boundaries of regions begin and end. It also explained which land was better suited for housing, which for agriculture, and which for industry or transport infrastructure, a process now understood as land use classification. [img:Images/otd-27-jan-2nd.jpeg | desc:Published by the National Geographic Society, National Geographic represents a benchmark in documentary and research based journalism.These three covers collectively document the magazine’s intellectual progression, tracing its focus from the natural world and wildlife, to human experience shaped by conflict, and finally to contemporary environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution.Viewed together, they express a consistent archival theme that the Earth, human society, and the environment exist as an interconnected system, each shaping and influencing the other over time.] Once these principles became established, it became easier to pursue planned urban expansion, divide areas into functional zones, and formulate land related laws and regulations. People began to understand why cities often develop near rivers, coastlines, mountains, transport routes, and natural resources, and why certain locations become more important and valuable than others, commonly described as strategic locations. National Geographic further demonstrated that land value is not determined solely by location, but by the characteristics present within it, including water systems, soil fertility, and the availability of mineral resources. This perspective introduced a scientific method for assessing the economic value of land and its investment potential. Later, with the introduction of aerial photography through aircraft, followed by satellite based observation, geographical data relating to land became increasingly precise. On this foundation, modern digital land records and contemporary land administration systems were developed. In essence, National Geographic taught the world that land is not simply a piece of earth, but a geographical asset and a resource based form of capital that can be understood and utilised through informed planning. This approach continues to underpin real estate valuation, urban expansion, and policy formulation today. National Geographic is also widely recognised for its photography, documentaries, and research on animals, forests, land, oceans, and the natural environment. Cartography has remained an important part of National Geographic’s work, an area in which the institution developed considerable expertise over time. Through its globally renowned magazine National Geographic, the Society published maps distinguished by clarity, accuracy, and rigorous research. These maps were not intended for routine government use, but were designed to help readers understand the world, its regions, oceans, borders, and natural systems. As a result, they were widely trusted and used by educational institutions, researchers, and the general public. Although mapmaking was not the Society’s central function, the quality of the maps published in its magazine significantly strengthened its reputation and established it as a serious and credible scholarly institution worldwide. The idea of forming the National Geographic Society emerged in 1888 in Washington DC among a group of geographers, scientists, and intellectuals, most notably Gardiner Greene Hubbard, who became its first president. Their objective was to understand and explain, on a scientific basis, the relationship between the world, land, nature, and humanity. The National Geographic Society is a non profit, public, and educational institution that does not operate under any government authority. Its funding is derived from public donations, membership fees, publishing and media revenue, and research grants. These resources support its staff, research activities, documentaries, and fieldwork. Owing to this autonomous structure, it is widely regarded as an independent, credible, and impartial scholarly institution.