Incorporated by Congress in 1889, the AHA's mission to enhance the work of historians also encompasses academic freedom, professional standards and ethics, innovative scholarship and teaching and international collaboration. As the largest membership association of professional historians in the world (over 11,500 members), the AHA serves historians in a wide variety of professions, and represents every historical era and geographical area. Through our publications, annual meetings, projects, and other initiatives, the AHA supports the promotion of historical studies.