Akron, Ohio, USA
1935 - June 10 – Alcoholics Anonymous is founded in Akron, Ohio by William G. Wilson and Dr. Robert Smith.


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On June 10, 1935, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was founded in Akron, Ohio, marking a significant moment in the history of addiction recovery. The organization was founded by William G. Wilson, commonly known as "Bill W.," and Dr. Robert Smith, known as "Dr. Bob." Both men had struggled with alcoholism and had experienced the challenges of trying to overcome it alone. They believed that by coming together and supporting each other, they could achieve sobriety. This belief laid the foundation for AA's principle of mutual aid and fellowship.

The founding of AA was not just the creation of a support group; it was the birth of a movement that would change the way society views and treats addiction. AA introduced the concept of the Twelve Steps, a set of principles outlining a course of action for recovery from addiction, which has since become a cornerstone of many addiction recovery programs worldwide. The organization's emphasis on anonymity and its non-professional, peer-led approach have been instrumental in its success and widespread adoption.



June 10, 1935

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