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Today in History: Bob Smith takes last drink, sparks AA founding

6/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On June 10, 1935, American physician Dr. Bob Smith took his last drink, marking the founding date of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Co-founded with Bill Wilson, AA promotes an abstinence-based recovery model through its twelve-step program. Today, it operates in 180 countries, with nearly two million members, emphasizing anonymity and mutual support.

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Story summary

On June 10, 1935, American physician Dr. Bob Smith took his last drink, marking the founding date of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Co-founded with Bill Wilson, AA promotes an abstinence-based recovery model through its twelve-step program. Today, it operates in 180 countries, with nearly two million members, emphasizing anonymity and mutual support.