In 1912, Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts in the United States with the aim of providing girls with opportunities for personal growth, outdoor experiences, and community service. Inspired by the scouting movement founded by Sir Robert Baden-Powell, Juliette believed in the importance of empowering girls and young women to develop their full potential and become active, engaged citizens.

The first Girl Scout troop meeting was held in Savannah, Georgia, with just 18 girls in attendance. From these humble beginnings, the organization quickly grew, with troops forming across the country.

In 1917, during World War I, Girl Scouts played a significant role in supporting the war effort by selling war bonds, growing victory gardens, and providing aid to soldiers and their families.

Over the years, Girl Scouting evolved to meet the changing needs and interests of girls, expanding its programs to include a wide range of activities such as camping, hiking, arts and crafts, STEM education, leadership development, and community service projects.

In 1936, the first Girl Scout Cookies were sold by girls in Philadelphia as a way to finance troop activities. Today, cookie sales remain a beloved tradition and an important fundraising activity for Girl Scout troops nationwide.

In 1947, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) was established to promote international friendship and cooperation among girls and young women around the world. Girl Scouts of the USA is a member of WAGGGS, joining girls from over 150 countries in a global sisterhood.

Throughout its history, Girl Scouting has continued to inspire generations of girls to build courage, confidence, and character while making the world a better place. The organization remains committed to its mission of empowering girls and young women to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.