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Alcoholics Anonymous

Global peer-led fellowship for alcoholism recovery
Global peer-led fellowship for alcoholism recovery

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a global mutual aid fellowship dedicated to abstinence-based recovery from alcoholism through a twelve-step program. Founded in 1935, AA has over two million members worldwide, with a focus on anonymity and non-affiliation. The fellowship's traditions emphasize non-professionalism, non-denominationalism, and apolitical stance, with a policy of attraction over promotion.

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1774
Publication of Anthony Benezet’s Mighty Destroyer Displayed

In 1774, Anthony Benezet's essay on alcoholism, titled Mighty Destroyer Displayed, was published. This essay is considered one of the earliest American works on alcoholism.

1842-02-22
Abraham Lincoln speaks to the Springfield Washingtonians

On February 22, 1842, Abraham Lincoln addressed the Springfield Washingtonians, praising their movement and criticizing earlier temperance movements' definition of alcoholics.

1877-07
Birth of William D. Silkworth M.D.

William D. Silkworth M.D. was born in Brooklyn, New York.

1879-08-08
Birth of Robert Holbrook Smith

Robert Holbrook Smith, also known as Dr. Bob, was born in St. Johnsbury, Vermont.

1881-03-21
Birth of Anne R.

Anne R., the wife of Dr. Bob, was born on March 21.

1890-08
Birth of E.M. Jellinek, Ph.D.

E.M. Jellinek, Ph.D., the author of 'The Disease Concept of Alcoholism' and creator of the 'Jellinek Curve', was born in August.

1891-03-03
Birth of Lois W.

Lois W. was born on March 3.

1893-12-27
Birth of Rev. Sam Shoemaker

Rev. Sam Shoemaker, head of the U.S. Oxford Group movement and minister of Calvary Church in NYC, was born on December 27.

1895-11-26
Birth of Bill W.

Bill W. is born in East Dorset, Vermont.

1902
Publication of Varieties of Religious Experience

The book 'Varieties of Religious Experience' by William James was published in 1902, which influenced Bill Wilson's understanding of spiritual transformations.

1904-10
Birth of Marty Mann

Marty Mann, an early AA woman and founder of the National Council on Alcoholism, is born in Chicago, Illinois.

1905-09
Bill W's father takes him on a late-night buggy ride

In September 1905, Bill W's father, Gilman, took him on a late-night buggy ride after a bitter argument with Emily, where he asked Bill to do something significant.

1913-01
Bill W fails mid-year exams and drops out of school

In January 1913, Bill W faced academic challenges and failed nearly every mid-year exam, leading to his decision to drop out of school.

1915-01-25
Marriage of Dr. Bob and Anne R.

Dr. Bob marries Anne R.

1918-01-24
Marriage of Bill W. and Lois B.

Bill W. marries Lois B.

1921
Founding of The Oxford Group

The Oxford Group was a Christian fellowship established by American missionary Frank Buchman in 1921. It emphasized principles like confession, conversion, and the Four Absolutes. Bill Wilson, a co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, drew inspiration from The Oxford Group's teachings in developing AA's Twelve-Step Program.

1923
Bill W's mother, Emily, marries Dr. Charles Strobel

In 1923, Bill W's mother, Emily, married Dr. Charles Strobel, marking a significant event in Bill W's family life.

1931
Rowland Hazard experiences spiritual conversion with the Oxford Group

With the help of the Oxford Group, Rowland Hazard underwent a spiritual conversion and began to experience liberation from alcohol. This conversion led him to a lifetime of sobriety.

1933
Bill Wilson admitted to Towns Hospital

In 1933, Bill Wilson was admitted to Towns Hospital in New York, which was headed by Dr. William D. Silkworth.

1934-11-11
Bill W.'s Last Drunk

Bill W.'s last drunk begins and lasts about a month.

1934-12-11
Bill W.'s Sobriety

Bill W. takes his last drink and enters Towns Hospital where he has a spiritual experience and the obsession with alcohol is removed.

1934-12-18
Release from Towns Hospital

Bill Wilson was released from Towns Hospital on December 18, 1934, after undergoing treatment and experiencing a spiritual conversion.

1935-05-11
Meeting of Bill W. and Dr. Bob

Alone in the lobby of the Mayflower Hotel in Akron, Ohio, Bill W. makes 11 phone calls and finally gets Henrietta Seiberling, who introduces him to Dr. Bob.

1935-05-12
Bill & Dr. Bob's First Meeting

Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith met for the first time in Akron, Ohio at Henrietta Seiberling’s Gate House. This meeting marked the beginning of the Alcoholics Anonymous movement.

1935-06-10
Founding of Alcoholics Anonymous

Dr. Bob Smith had his last drink on June 10, 1935, which is considered the founding date of Alcoholics Anonymous. This marked the beginning of the organization that aimed to help alcoholics achieve sobriety through a spiritual conversion and support from fellow recovering alcoholics.

1935-06-17
Founding of the Fellowship

Dr. Bob Smith had his last drink, and together with Bill Wilson, they founded the Fellowship in Akron, Ohio. This event led to the establishment of Alcoholics Anonymous, with thousands of members gathering annually for AA Founder's Day Weekend.

1936-02
First AA Group in Akron OH

The first Alcoholics Anonymous group in Akron, Ohio, was established on a firm footing. This marked a milestone in the growth and organization of AA in its early stages.

1936-03
Bill & Lois visit Fitz M. in Maryland

In March 1936, Bill & Lois visit Fitz M. in Maryland, who is known as 'Our Southern Friend' in the Big Book stories.

1936-11
Fitz M. becomes NY area's AA #3

In November 1936, Fitz M. leaves Towns Hospital to become the third member of Alcoholics Anonymous in the New York area, alongside Bill W. & Hank P.

1937-01
AA brought to Washington D.C. area

In January 1937, Fitz M. & others bring Alcoholics Anonymous to the Washington D.C. area.

1937-02
The Oxford Group's 'alcoholic squadron' meets at Hank P.'s home in NJ

In February 1937, the 'alcoholic squadron' of The Oxford Group holds a meeting at Hank P.'s home in New Jersey.

1937-03
First female member joins AA

In March 1937, Florence Rankin became the first female member to join Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Her inclusion marked a significant step towards inclusivity and diversity within the organization.

1937-09
Florence R. becomes 1st female AA in NY

In September 1937, Florence R. becomes the first female member of Alcoholics Anonymous in New York.

1937-10
1st NY AA group meetings at Bill & Lois's home

In October 1937, the first Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in New York are held weekly at Bill & Lois's home at 182 Clinton St., Brooklyn.

1937-12
Bill meets with Rockefeller Foundation for funding

In December 1937, Bill meets with the Rockefeller Foundation in an attempt to raise money for Alcoholics Anonymous.

1938-01
New York AA splits from Oxford Group

In January 1938, the New York chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) decided to split from the Oxford Group, which had been renamed 'Moral Re-Armament' or 'MRA'.

1938-04
First weekly meeting of 18 AA members at 182 Clinton St. NYC

In April 1938, 18 members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) attended their first weekly meeting at 182 Clinton St. in New York City, which was hosted at Bill's home.

1938-05
Publication of Alcoholics Anonymous

In May 1938, the book 'Alcoholics Anonymous,' also known as the Big Book, was published.

1938-06
Publication of Alcoholics Anonymous Book Announcement

Two associates of John D. Rockefeller, Jr. reveal to the press about a book that is to be published under the name 'Alcoholics Anonymous'.

1938-07
Ruth Hock's Letter Typing Initiative

Ruth Hock initiates the typing of the first of many letters to individuals seeking help with alcoholism.

1938-08
Writing of Stories for the Big Book Begins

Akron OH and the NY AA groups start documenting their stories for the Big Book.

1938-09
Formation of Works Publishing Co.

Bill W. and Hank P. establish Works Publishing Co. to raise funds for writing and publishing 'Alcoholics Anonymous'.

1938-12
Initiation of Writing the 12 Steps

Bill W. starts writing the 12 Steps based on Oxford Group principles and the concept of addressing the vulnerabilities of alcoholics.

1939-04-10
Publication of 'Alcoholics Anonymous' Big Book

On April 10, 1939, the 'Alcoholics Anonymous' Big Book was officially published, marking a significant milestone in the history of the organization.

1939-05-11
First AA Group in Cleveland

On May 11, 1939, Cleveland started and first named a group Alcoholics Anonymous.

1940-06-30
Works Publishing Incorporation

Works Publishing, the publisher of the Big Book, became incorporated on June 30, 1940.

1941-03-01
Jack Alexander's Saturday Evening Post Article

On March 1, 1941, Jack Alexander's Saturday Evening Post article brought Alcoholics Anonymous national recognition, leading to a significant increase in membership.

1942-02
Tribute to Ruth Hock

In February 1942, Bill W. pays tribute to Ruth Hock, the first paid secretary of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), who resigned to get married. Ruth had signed 15,000 letters to alcoholics seeking help from the NY AA office.

1942-03
South Orange NJ AA Anniversary Dinner

In March 1942, the South Orange NJ AA chapter holds an anniversary dinner at Hotel Suburban, with Bill W. as the guest speaker.

1942-04
Testimonial Dinner for Dr. Bob

In April 1942, the Windsor Daily Star in Ontario, Canada, reports that over 40 AA members attended a testimonial dinner in Detroit for Dr. Bob, the co-founder of AA.

1942-05
Bill W. Addresses Connecticut Society for Mental Hygiene

In May 1942, Bill W. informs the Connecticut Society for Mental Hygiene that AA has 6,000 members in 180 groups.

1942-06
AA Central Bulletin introduces new 24 hour service number

In June 1942, Cleveland OH's AA Central Bulletin announced the introduction of a new 24-hour service number in the telephone directory.

1942-09
U.S. Assitant Surgeon General Kolb speaks at dinner for Bill & Dr. Bob

In September 1942, U.S. Assistant Surgeon General Kolb delivered a speech at a dinner held in Philadelphia for Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob, the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1942-10
Chicago Herald American reports AA group's 3rd Anniversary

In October 1942, the Chicago Herald American covered the 3rd Anniversary celebration of an AA group, with 500 people in attendance.

1943-01
Canadian newspaper reports founding meeting of Canada's first AA group

In January 1943, a Canadian newspaper documented a meeting where 8 men gathered at 'Little Denmark', a Toronto restaurant, to discuss the formation of Canada's first AA group.

1943-02
U.S. Gov't grants AA right to use cars for 12th Step work during WWII

In February 1943, during World War II gasoline rationing, the U.S. Government acknowledged the significance of AA's work and permitted the use of cars for 12th Step work in emergency situations.

1943-03
Queens AA group 2nd anniversary celebration

In March 1943, the Queens AA group celebrated their 2nd anniversary with a dinner at Forest Hills Inn, attended by 100 AA members.

1943-05
Akron OH AA group 8th anniversary celebration

In May 1943, the Akron OH AA group celebrated their 8th anniversary with 500 attendees.

1943-07
1st summer session of Yale Univ. School of Alcohol Studies

In July 1943, the 1st summer session of Yale Univ. School of Alcohol Studies began with Bill W. and six other AA members attending.

1943-08
AA Picnic at Sycamore Grove in Los Angeles Times

The Los Angeles Times reported in August 1943 about an AA picnic at Sycamore Grove, where 400 Southern California AA members attended.

1943-09
AA Group Mentioned in Tuscon AZ Star

The Tuscon AZ Star reported in September 1943 about an AA group consisting of eight men and three women.

1943-10
Clubhouse Anniversary in Toledo Ohio Blade

In October 1943, the Toledo Ohio Blade reported an anniversary event at the Clubhouse with 200 attendees.

1943-11
First Open AA Meeting at Local VA Hospital in Los Angeles

In November 1943, the Los Angeles Times reported on the 1st open Alcoholics Anonymous meeting held at the local VA hospital.

1943-12
Mr. Bill Speaks to Inmates at San Quentin AA Meeting

In December 1943, the San Quentin News reported that 'Mr. Bill' addressed 300 inmates at their Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.

1944-03
Establishment of NY Intergroup

In March 1944, the NY Intergroup for Alcoholics Anonymous was established.

1944-06
Publication of AA Grapevine Magazine

In June 1944, AA Grapevine magazine was first published, featuring personal stories of AA members and becoming the national journal of AA in 1945.

1944-09
Start of 'The Empty Jug' Newsletter in Chattanooga, TN

In September 1944, 'The Empty Jug,' an early Alcoholics Anonymous newsletter, began circulation in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

1944-10
Opening of NCA's NYC Office

The National Committee for Education on Alcoholism (NCA), later known as NCA, opened its New York City office in October 1944.

1944-12
Australia Becomes First Country Outside North America with AA

In December 1944, Australia became the first country outside of North America to establish Alcoholics Anonymous.

1945-02-05
Time Magazine Reports Detroit's WWJ Radio Broadcasts by AA'ers

On February 5, 1945, Time Magazine reported on Detroit's WWJ radio station pioneering broadcasts by Alcoholics Anonymous members, marking the first such radio program in the United States.

1946-03
Filming of 'The March of Time' documentary on AA

In March 1946, a documentary on Alcoholics Anonymous titled 'The March of Time' was filmed by the New York AA office.

1946-04
Publication of Twelve Traditions in AA Grapevine

In April 1946, the Twelve Traditions were first published in the AA Grapevine as guidelines for group conduct and avoiding controversies.

1946-09
Formation of the 1st AA group in Mexico City

In September 1946, the first Alcoholics Anonymous group was formed in Mexico City.

1946-11
Demand for accounting of Alcoholic Foundation money

In November 1946, an AA intergroup office demanded an accounting of all Alcoholic Foundation money.

1947-03
Founding of Calix Society in Minneapolis

In March 1947, the Calix Society was founded in Minneapolis by five recovering Catholic alcoholics who were also AA members.

1947-11
Establishment of the 1st Alaskan AA group in Anchorage

In November 1947, Anchorage saw the establishment of its first Alaskan Alcoholics Anonymous group.

1949-06-01
Death of Anne S., wife of Dr. Bob

On June 1, 1949, Anne S., the wife of Dr. Bob, passed away.

1949-12-25
Dr. Bob's final visit to St. Thomas Hospital alcoholic ward

On Christmas Day in 1949, Dr. Bob made his last visit to the alcoholic ward at St. Thomas Hospital, where he had provided assistance and support to numerous individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.

1950-06-01
Anne Ripley Smith's Death

On June 1, 1950, Anne Ripley Smith passed away. This event had an impact on those who knew her and was a part of the history of the American Psychiatric Association.

1950-11-16
Dr. Bob Smith's Death

Dr. Bob Smith, the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, passes away on November 16, 1950.

1951-03-22
Death of Dr. William Duncan Silkworth

Dr. William Duncan Silkworth, known as 'Silky,' who treated Bill W. and many others struggling with alcoholism, passes away at NY Towns Hospital.

1952-01
AA Grapevine publishes memorial issue on Dr. Bob

In January 1952, the AA Grapevine released a memorial issue dedicated to Dr. Bob, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1952-11
Rev. Willard S. Richardson dies

In November 1952, Rev. Willard S. Richardson passed away. He was known as AA's connection to the Rockefeller Foundation.

1953
Publication of Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions Book

In 1953, the Twelve Traditions were published in the book Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, further solidifying their role in the AA program.

1954-01
Hank P., early AA member, dies in Pennington NJ

In January 1954, Hank P., an early member of Alcoholics Anonymous who assisted Bill in establishing the NY office, passed away in Pennington, New Jersey.

1954-09
Bill D. (AA #4) dies

In September 1954, Bill D., who was the fourth member of Alcoholics Anonymous, passed away.

1955-07-01
Legacies of Recovery, Unity, and Service turned over to AA Fellowship

From July 1-3, 1955, at the 20th International AA Convention in St. Louis, Missouri, the legacies of Recovery, Unity, and Service were handed over to the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous by its old-timers.

1956-05
1st English AA convention held in Cheltenham, England

In May 1956, the first English Alcoholics Anonymous convention took place in Cheltenham, England.

1957-10
Publication of Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age

In October 1957, the book 'Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age' was published, providing insights into the history and growth of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1958-04
Removal of 'honest' from AA Preamble

In April 1958, the word 'honest' was removed from the AA Preamble's 'an honest desire to stop drinking', reflecting a change in wording within Alcoholics Anonymous.

1958-08
Publication of Twenty-Four Hours A Day

In August 1958, the book 'Twenty-Four Hours A Day' was written by Richard W., becoming the second best seller after the Big Book within Alcoholics Anonymous.

1958-10
Airing of 'The Days of Wine and Roses' on Playhouse 90 TV

In October 1958, Playhouse 90 TV aired 'The Days of Wine and Roses', a movie focusing on alcoholism, shedding light on the issue to a wider audience.

1958-11
1st International Conference of Young People in AA

In November 1958, the first International Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous took place at Niagra Falls NY, marking a significant event for young individuals in the AA community.

1959-02
Permission granted to 'Recording For The Blind' to tape the Big Book

In February 1959, Alcoholics Anonymous granted permission to 'Recording For The Blind' to tape the Big Book, making the content accessible to visually impaired individuals.

1959-11
Translation of the Big Book for Africans in South Africa

In November 1959, the Big Book was translated for Africans in South Africa by Andries K., marking the first translation of the Big Book into another language and expanding its reach.

1960-04
Bill W. declines Time Magazine cover for AA's Anonymity Tradition

In April 1960, Bill W. refused the cover of Time Magazine in order to uphold Alcoholics Anonymous' Anonymity Tradition, showcasing his commitment to the principles of AA.

1960-07
25th Anniversary AA Convention in Long Beach CA

Around 7,000 people attended the 25th Anniversary Alcoholics Anonymous convention in Long Beach, California.

1961-01
Dr. Carl Jung responds to Bill W.'s letter

Dr. Carl Jung replied to a letter from Bill W. with the phrase 'Spiritus Contra Spiritum'.

1962-05
First 'Victor E.' cartoon published in The AA Grapevine

The first 'Victor E.' cartoon was published in The AA Grapevine magazine in May.

1963-10
E.M. Jellinek passes away

E.M. Jellinek, a prominent alcoholism researcher, educator, and friend of AA, dies in October.

1965-07
Al S. writes the 'Responsibility Pledge' at Toronto Int'l. Convention

Al S. penned the 'Responsibility Pledge' and it was recited by a crowd of 10,000 at the Toronto International Convention for the first time.

1966-03
Ebby T. dies sober

Ebby T., known for making the first 12th Step call, passes away while maintaining sobriety in March.

1966-11
Marty M. appointed to the 1st National Advisory Commission on Alcoholism

U.S. President Johnson appoints Marty M. to the inaugural National Advisory Commission on Alcoholism in November.

1966-12
Death of Ebby T., the man behind the first 12th Step call

Ebby T., who played a significant role in the first 12th Step call, passes away in December. Surprisingly, his newspaper obituary makes no mention of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1967-02
Father John Doe (Fr. Ralph Pfau) dies

In February 1967, Father John Doe, also known as Fr. Ralph Pfau, passed away. He was the first Catholic priest to join Alcoholics Anonymous.

1969
Start of World Service Meeting

In 1969, the World Service Meeting for Alcoholics Anonymous was initiated, and since 1972, it has been held biennially in locations alternating between New York and various overseas places, fostering the global growth of A.A.

1970-10
Lois reads 'Bill’s Last Message' at the Bill W. Dinner

In October 1970, Lois read 'Bill’s Last Message' during the Bill W. Dinner, a significant event in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1971-01-24
Death of Bill W.

On January 24, 1971, Bill W., one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, passed away in Miami Beach, Florida, after delivering his last public words at the 35th Anniversary International Convention seven months earlier.

1971-09-22
1st European Convention of AA in Bristol, England

From September 22 to 25, 1971, over 500 individuals attended the first European Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous in Bristol, England, marking a significant international expansion of the organization.

1973-04
Dr. Jack Norris presents one millionth copy of the Big Book to President Richard Nixon

In April 1973, Dr. Jack Norris, Chairman of the AA General Service Board, presented the one millionth copy of the Big Book to President Richard Nixon at a White House ceremony, highlighting the widespread impact of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1973-09
AA Archives is established at the GSO in NY

In September 1973, the AA Archives were established at the General Service Office in New York, marking a crucial step in preserving the history and legacy of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1974-05
1st World Service Meeting of AA outside of America in London, England

In May 1974, the first World Service Meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous held outside of America took place in London, England, signifying the global reach and impact of the organization.

1975-09
Jack Alexander, author of the Saturday Evening Post articles on AA, dies

In September 1975, Jack Alexander, the author known for his influential Saturday Evening Post articles on Alcoholics Anonymous, passed away.

1975-11
Opening of GSO AA Archives

In November 1975, the General Service Board officially opened the GSO AA Archives with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

1975-12
Foundation of AA special interest group for Airline Pilots

In December 1975, the AA special interest group for Airline Pilots, known as 'Birds of a Feather', was founded.

1976
Release of Third Edition of the Big Book

The third edition of the Big Book was released in 1976, with further updates to the personal stories section to reflect current AA membership.

1977
General Service Conference dissolves Institutions Committee

In 1977, the General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous voted to dissolve its Institutions Committee and form two separate committees, one for treatment facilities and one for correctional facilities.

1979-07
Publication of Ernie Kurtz's AA history book 'Not God'

In July 1979, Ernie Kurtz's book 'Not God', focusing on AA history, was published.

1980-05
Publication of 'Dr. Bob and the Good Old-Timers'

In May 1980, the AAWS biography of AA's co-founder and a history of early Midwest AA, 'Dr. Bob and the Good Old-Timers', was published.

1980-07
First Gay AA members meeting at New Orleans Convention

In July 1980, Gay AA members had their own meeting for the first time at the New Orleans Convention.

1981-06
25th Anniversary Celebration of Switzerland AA

In June 1981, Switzerland AA celebrated its 25th Anniversary with the presence of Lois W. and Nell Wing.

1981-08
Sales of the Big Book pass three million

In August 1981, sales of the Big Book, a key literature in AA, surpassed three million copies.

1982-12
Retirement of Nell Wing, Bill W.'s secretary & AA's 1st archivist

In December 1982, Nell Wing retired from her position as Bill W.'s secretary and AA's first archivist, but continued as an Ambassador-At-Large for AA and a passionate advocate for AA history.

1983-11
Lois attends Desert Roundup AA Convention in CA

In November 1983, Lois participates in the Desert Roundup AA Convention in California. Her past experiences as a 'motorcycle hobo' lead to her receiving an honorary membership in an AA motorcycle club.

1984-03
Clarence S., founder of Cleveland OH AA, passes away

In March 1984, Clarence S., the founder of the Cleveland Ohio Alcoholics Anonymous, dies at the age of 81.

1984-12
Pass It on: The Story of Bill Wilson and how the A.A. Message Reached the World

A publication from December 1984 that details the journey of Bill Wilson and the global spread of the Alcoholics Anonymous message.

1985-07
50th Anniversary AA International Convention & Al-Anon's 1st International Convention in Montreal

In July 1985, the 50th Anniversary of the AA International Convention coincides with Al-Anon's 1st International Convention in Montreal. Ruth Hock is honored with the five millionth copy of the Big Book.

1985-12
Dave B., founder of the Montreal group, passes away

In December 1985, Dave B., the founder of the Montreal group, dies shortly before the 50th AA Anniversary International Convention in Montreal, Canada.

1988-01
West Virginia AA establishes 1st statewide toll-free telephone hotline

In January 1988, West Virginia Alcoholics Anonymous launches its first statewide toll-free telephone hotline.

1988-08
1st Canadian National AA Convention held in Halifax, Nova Scotia

In August 1988, the first Canadian National Alcoholics Anonymous Convention takes place in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

1988-10
Death of Lois W., Co-founder of Al-Anon

Lois W., the widow of Bill W. and co-founder of Al-Anon, passes away at the age of 97. A memorial service is held in a Quaker-style at Stepping Stones in Bedford Hills, NY, with 50 attendees. She is laid to rest next to Bill in East Dorset, VT.

1989-04
Death of Dr. Leonard Strong

Dr. Leonard Strong, brother-in-law of Bill W. and an early supporter of AA, passes away.

1990-07
55th Anniversary AA International Convention

The 55th Anniversary AA International Convention takes place in Seattle, WA, where Nell Wing receives the 10 millionth copy of the Big Book.

1991
Not-God: a history of Alcoholics Anonymous

A book authored by Ernest Kurtz in 1991, providing a historical account of Alcoholics Anonymous.

1993-07
50th Anniversary Canadian AA Convention

Canadian AA celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a convention.

1994-10
50th Anniversary of National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence

The National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence marks its 50th Anniversary with a dinner at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Washington, D.C.

1995-07
60th Anniversary AA International Convention

The 60th Anniversary AA International Convention is held in San Diego, CA.

1995-12
Dedication of new AA Archives in Akron OH

In December 1995, the new AA Archives were dedicated in Akron, Ohio. They are currently located in the Akron Intergroup Office.

1998
Research on AA's Ideology and Commitment

Sociologists David R. Rudy and Arthur L. Greil conducted a study on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) literature and meetings, finding that a high level of commitment and a change in worldview are necessary for members to remain sober.

1999
The Diseasing of America: how we allowed recovery zealots and the treatment industry to convince us we are out of control

A book published in 1999 by Stanton Peele, discussing the influence of recovery advocates and the treatment sector on the perception of loss of control in America.

2000-07
65th Anniversary AA Int'l Convention in Minneapolis MN

In July 2000, the 65th Anniversary AA International Convention took place in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

2001
Release of Fourth Edition of the Big Book

The fourth edition of the Big Book was released in 2001, with continued updates to the personal stories section to stay relevant to current AA membership.

2002
Alcoholics Anonymous: the story of how many thousands of men and women have recovered from alcoholism

A book published in 2002 that narrates the success stories of numerous individuals who have overcome alcoholism through Alcoholics Anonymous.

2003
Thirteenth-stepping Controversy in Alcoholics Anonymous

The term 'thirteenth-stepping' refers to AA members making sexual advances towards new members. A study in 2003 found that a significant percentage of women in AA had experienced unwanted advances. AA has since implemented measures to address this issue.

2005-07
70th Anniversary AA Int'l Convention in Toronto, Canada

The 70th Anniversary AA International Convention was held in July 2005 in Toronto, Canada.

2006
In-depth look into the early founding days of Alcoholics Anonymous

The episode of History Detectives aired in 2006 delved into the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous, focusing on a letter from Bill Wilson to Herbert Wallace.

2007
You Kill Me

A 2007 crime-comedy film starring Ben Kingsley as a mob hit man with a drinking problem who is forced to accept a job at a mortuary and go to AA meetings.

2010-07
75th Anniversary AA Int'l Convention in San Antonio TX

In July 2010, the 75th Anniversary AA International Convention took place in San Antonio, Texas.

2010-12
75 Years of Sobriety in Alcoholics Anonymous

In December 2010, the American Journal of Public Health highlighted the continued sobriety of Alcoholics Anonymous after 75 years.

2011
Bill W.

A 2011 biographical documentary film that tells the story of Bill Wilson using interviews, recreations, and rare archival material.

2012-11-30
Effectiveness of Alcoholics Anonymous in Clinical Settings

On November 30, 2012, a study by NIH National Library of Medicine examined the effectiveness of Alcoholics Anonymous in a large clinical sample.

2013-08-26
Overview of 12-Step Interventions and Mutual Support

NIH National Library of Medicine provided an overview on August 26, 2013, regarding the effectiveness of 12-Step interventions and mutual support for alcohol use disorders.

2014-02-21
Alcoholics Anonymous, Without the Religion

An article by Samuel G. Freedman in The New York Times in 2014 discussing Alcoholics Anonymous without the religious aspect.

2015-07-02
80th Anniversary International AA Convention in Atlanta

The 80th Anniversary International AA Convention took place in Atlanta, GA in July 2015. The theme of the convention was '80 Years – Happy, Joyous, and Free', reflecting the spirit of the AA community.

2017-05
Lawsuit for Return of Original Manuscript of the Big Book

In May 2017, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services Inc. filed a lawsuit in New York seeking the return of the original manuscript of the Big Book. The legal action sparked controversy within the AA community regarding the involvement of the parent organization in such matters.

2018
AA Membership and Groups Worldwide

In 2018, Alcoholics Anonymous had 2,087,840 members and 120,300 AA groups worldwide. The organization relies on voluntary contributions from members to cover expenses.

2019
Doctor Sleep

Released in 2019, Doctor Sleep is a sequel to The Shining, directed by Mike Flanagan and based on Stephen King's work. Ewan McGregor stars as a man who, after overcoming his own demons through AA, helps others do the same.

2020-03-11
Effectiveness of Alcoholics Anonymous for Alcohol Abstinence

Stanford Medicine News Center reported on March 11, 2020, that Alcoholics Anonymous is considered the most effective path to alcohol abstinence.

2021-04-17
Revised AA Preamble Approved

On April 17, 2021, the General Service Board of AA approved a revised version of the AA Preamble, changing the description of AA from a fellowship of 'men and women' to one that is of 'people'. This change reflected the inclusivity of the AA community.

2022-03
Alcohol Use in the United States

In March 2022, the NIH National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism provided insights into alcohol use in the United States.

End of the Timeline
Alcoholics Anonymous
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