Forty years ago, the Cato Institute opened its doors as a new public policy research organization dedicated to liberty. Today, through our independent, nonpartisan research, worldwide events, vast online resources, and media outreach, Cato engages millions on the timeless principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets and peace.

See a timeline of our milestones over 40 years.

Read enduring essays Cato has published in its Cato’s Letter series and in its book Toward Liberty, by individuals who remain some of our most innovative and insightful thinkers.

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The Future of Liberty

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