Description: Founded in 1958 by Robert W. Welch Jr., the John Birch Society is a U.S.-based conservative, membership-driven advocacy organization that promotes limited federal government, staunch anti-communism, national sovereignty, and traditionalist social and economic views through education, publications, and grassroots activism. Type: Non-profit advocacy organization (membership-based conservative grassroots organization) Policies: Advocates for limited government and strict constitutionalism, states' rights, opposition to international institutions and treaties perceived to undermine U.S. sovereignty, restrictive immigration policies, strong property and gun rights, reduced federal spending and regulation, and anti-communist/anti-globalist positions. Funding: Primarily funded by individual donations and membership dues, plus revenue from sales of publications and related materials. Affiliates: Founder Robert W. Welch Jr.; a network of state and local chapters and councils; informal alliances with other conservative and constitutionalist grassroots organizations.
