Humane society is a group dedicated to protecting children and animals from human cruelty. Today, a person who sees an animal beaten or a child mistreated may notify the local humane society. The society takes legal action against the offender. The first humane societies were founded in the 1700’s to teach people lifesaving methods and to prevent drownings. The first society to be established for the prevention of cruelty to animals was founded in England in 1824.
The first American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was founded in New York in 1866. The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was organized in 1876. Philanthropist Henry Bergh took a leading part in organizing both of these societies. Similar societies were formed throughout the United States. In 1877, these local groups formed the American Humane Association.
See also Animal cruelty; People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA); Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
