Five decades of the Peace Corps in photos
As the agency marks a landmark anniversary, a look back at some compelling images of its work.
The Peace Corps is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month.
On March 1, 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order creating the agency. The first group of Peace Corps volunteers departed for Ghana and Tanzania later that year. In the five decades since, the agency has deployed more than 200,000 people to 139 countries, including 8,655 volunteers currently working in 77 communities around the world.
To mark the 50th anniversary, Peace Corps volunteers and staff are conducting service projects across the country and abroad.
"In our increasingly interconnected world, the mission of the Peace Corps is more relevant today than ever," said President Obama in a statement recognizing the anniversary. "Returned volunteers, enriched by their experiences overseas, bring a deeper understanding of other cultures and traditions back to their home communities in the United States. The lasting accomplishments of the Peace Corps continue to strengthen partnerships with leaders and countries around the world."
Throughout its history, the Peace Corps has kept a photographic record of its activities. Click below to view a slideshow of images from the agency's archives.
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