| 1859—Twenty-six dentists meet in Niagara Falls, New York to form a professional society called the American Dental Association composed of a national representative membership of dentists and dedicated to promoting high professional standards and scientific research.
1860—ADA adopts its first Constitution and Bylaws.
1861—ADA’s annual meeting is cancelled due to the onset of the U.S. Civil War.
1866—ADA adopts its first Code of Ethics.
1869—As a result of the Civil War members of the ADA from the South withdraw and form the Southern Dental Association.
1897—ADA merges with the Southern Dental Association and changes name to the National Dental Association. The Association’s original name is restored in 1922.
1899—ADA membership policies are revised to expand the organization and attract members.
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