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Philanthropy: History & Context
Philanthropy is one way that society addresses acute and chronic issues in the world around us. It is the giving for public benefit of:- money
- time
- or knowledge
Explore the unique history of philanthropy in the United States and its role as an engine for social change in American society.
Materials
- History of Philanthropy Reading List
For more information on the history of philanthropy, review the following bibliography.
Links
- A Legacy of Innovation (PDF)
Philanthropy as it is practiced in the United States is one of our nation's greatest social innovations. View a brief timeline exploring key moments in philanthropy from Future of Philanthropy. - An Abbreviated History of the Philanthropic Tradition in the United States
Learn more about philanthropy's strong roots in religious beliefs, the history of mutual assistance, democratic principles, pluralistic approaches to problem solving, and American traditions from the Council on Foundations.
