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Today in History: ACLU Founded to Protect American Civil Liberties

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 19, 1920, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) was founded by the directors of the National Civil Liberties Bureau. This nonprofit organization, active in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, focuses on defending civil rights and liberties. The ACLU's budget for 2024 is $383 million.

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Story summary

On January 19, 1920, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) was founded by the directors of the National Civil Liberties Bureau. This nonprofit organization, active in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, focuses on defending civil rights and liberties. The ACLU's budget for 2024 is $383 million.