The Brookings Institution, often abbreviated as Brookings, stands as a prominent American think tank renowned for its rigorous research and educational initiatives across various social science disciplines. Founded in 1916 under the name Institute for Government Research (IGR), it emerged with a pioneering vision to delve into national-level public policy issues, making it the inaugural private organization dedicated to such endeavors.
Established on March 13, 1916, the Institute commenced its operations on October 1 of the same year. Guided by its founder, philanthropist Robert S. Brookings (1850–1932), the institution initially comprised three distinct entities: the Institute for Government Research, the Institute of Economics (funded by the Carnegie Corporation), and the Robert Brookings Graduate School, in collaboration with Washington University in St. Louis. On December 8, 1927, these three entities were amalgamated to form what is now recognized as the Brookings Institution.
The Institution's overarching mission centers on providing innovative and pragmatic recommendations aimed at advancing three core objectives: strengthening American democracy, enhancing the economic and social welfare, security, and opportunities for all Americans, and fostering a more open, safe, prosperous, and cooperative international system. Through its multifaceted research initiatives and educational outreach, the Brookings Institution continues to serve as a catalyst for informed policymaking and societal progress.