Archives are not just dusty rooms full of old paper. They are organized repositories for records created or received by entities—governments, businesses, or institutions—during their daily operations. These records are preserved by the creator or their successors, ensuring a continuous chain of evidence. The modern concept of archival administration emerged in the late 18th century, sparked by the establishment of national and departmental archives in France.
In the United States, the federal government formalized this practice with the creation of the National Archives in 1934. This institution was tasked with housing the retired records of the national government. A decade later, the Federal Records Act of 1950 authorized the creation of regional records repositories, decentralizing the storage of historical data. Every state in the U.S. maintains its own archival agency, creating a layered system of record-keeping.
As the 20th century progressed, the scope of what constitutes an “archive” expanded significantly. Archivists began managing records generated by new technologies. This included computer-kept digital files and motion pictures, alongside traditional business and institutional documents. The role of the archivist shifted from merely guarding physical boxes to preserving complex, multi-format media. This evolution ensures that the digital footprint of modern society is not lost to time.
