The concept of well-to-do people helping the less fortunate is nothing new. In fact, charity has been a part of human cultures for thousands of years.
Charity is a humanitarian act to give to those in need. The word "charity" is derived from the Latin "caritas," which means "preciousness, dearness and high price." Charity is also tied to philanthropy, a word from the Greek "philanthropia," meaning "love of mankind." Charitable philanthropy has evolved to refer to the various forms of kindness directed toward others.
It is believed that charitable giving in some form has been around since 2500 BCE, when ancient Hebrews instituted a tax intended to help the poor. Philanthropy became a pillar upon which many religious organizations were built. Many charities were formed to provide basic necessities to others.
Charitable giving has been documented in nearly all cultures in some shape or form. According to the National Philanthropic Trust, classical Chinese philosophy exalted the virtue of benevolence. Ancient Greeks considered giving fundamental to democracy. Philanthropy was thought to promote balance and harmony among Native Americans.
Moses Maimonides, a 12th century rabbi and philosopher, helped shape modern philanthropy by establishing the Golden Ladder of Charity in the Mishneh Torah. Maimonides' eight levels of charitable giving ascend accordingly in value. They rank from giving grudgingly as the very least form of charity to helping to sustain a person before he or she becomes impoverished as the greatest. Maimonides' teachings helped shape future notions of giving.
Philanthropy has changed throughout history. Plato established a group working for the public good. Roman Emperor Augustus gave public aid to 200,000 people. In 1643, the first American fundraising drive was organized by Harvard University. Today, the value of donations to charity comprise roughly 2 percent of the total national gross domestic product in the United States. The charitable giving resource Winspire says more than 95 percent of households in the United States donate to charity.
Charitable giving continues to grow, with new philanthropic groups being established every year. Giving has become a major component of modern culture and an important part of shaping individuals, families and communities.