The United States National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) is an independent federal agency committed to supporting research, education, preservation, and public programs in various humanities disciplines, including history, literature, philosophy, and archaeology. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1965 as part of the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, it aims to enhance understanding of the rich cultural heritage that contributes to a democratic society. The NEH funds projects at academic institutions, museums, libraries, and other non-profit organizations across the nation, helping to promote lifelong learning and enrich American lives through the humanities.