Madalyn Murray O'Hair founded American Atheists, becoming the first president of what would grow into the largest atheist organization in the United States.
On April 19, 1963, Madalyn Murray (soon to be O'Hair) founded American Atheists, an organization dedicated to defending the civil rights of atheists, promoting the separation of church and state, and providing a support network and public voice for nonbelievers in the United States.
At the time, atheism carried enormous social stigma in America, particularly during the Cold War era when religiosity was closely tied to notions of patriotism and anti-communism. Openly identifying as an atheist activist was both professionally and personally dangerous, and Murray O'Hair faced ostracism, threats, and violence throughout her life for her outspoken views.
Under her leadership, American Atheists grew into a nationally recognized organization, publishing American Atheist magazine, sponsoring conventions, and engaging in numerous legal challenges to religious practices in government and public institutions. The organization became a model for subsequent secularist and freethought organizations.
O'Hair served as its president for decades, using the platform to file lawsuits, produce radio and television programming, and build a national infrastructure for atheist advocacy. Her founding of American Atheists is considered a foundational moment in the modern American secularist movement, paving the way for later organizations like the Freedom From Religion Foundation.