The AATG was founded in 1926 by college and high school teachers in the New York City area. Upon its founding, AATG President Camillo von Klenze from the College of the City of New York wrote: “…it becomes imperative for us teachers of German to use every legitimate means of improving the position of German in our schools, colleges, and universities. The first step …is the formation of an organization embracing all teachers of German in every part of the country. Only by enthusiastic cooperation can we hope to accomplish anything tangible.”
The AATG continues a strong tradition of supporting teachers of German from pre-kindergarten to graduate programs in American universities. In December 2026, AATG will be celebrating 100 years and in recognition of that milestone, AATG has launched the AATG Centennial Campaign under the motto “Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future”.