TheAmerican Studies Association (ASA) is a scholarly organization devoted to the interdisciplinary study ofU.S. culture andhistory. It was founded in 1951 and claims to be the oldest scholarly organization devoted to these topics.[1] The ASA works to promote meaningful dialogue about theUnited States of America, throughout the U.S. and across the globe. Its purpose is to support scholars and scholarship committed to original research, innovative and effective teaching, critical thinking, and public discussion and debate.
The ASA consists of almost 5,000 individual members along with 2,200 library and other institutional subscribers.[2] It publishes the journalAmerican Quarterly atJohns Hopkins University Press. The concerns and activities of the organization are international in scope.
The American Studies Association was founded for purposes of
the promotion of the study of American culture through the encouragement of research, teaching, publication, the strengthening of relations among persons and institutions in this country and abroad devoted to such studies, and the broadening of knowledge among the general public about American culture in all its diversity and complexity.[3]
American studies departments, programs, and centers exist around the world.[4]
Membership is available to any individual with an interest in the study of American culture. Colleges, universities, museums, foundations, societies and other institutions can also be members of the ASA.[5]
The ASA regularly produces several publications including:
TheAmerican Quarterly (AQ): Published in March, June, September, and December, the Journal's essays engage with important issues inAmerican studies. It is available online to ASA members and throughProject MUSE andJSTOR.[5]
The ASA E-Newsletter: Published quarterly, this newsletter provides information on programs, publications and opportunities relevant to ASA members, while aiming to promote a broader awareness of the challenges facing the American Studies Community.[5]
The Encyclopedia of American Studies: An online database featuring over 750 searchable articles. The ASA claims that the "Encyclopedia of American Studies is the leading reference work for the field."[5]
