The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) was incorporated in 1910 by William D. Boyce, who had been inspired during a trip to England where he encountered the Scouting movement founded by Robert Baden-Powell. After discovering how the Scouting program taught boys outdoor skills, teamwork, and leadership, Boyce returned to the U.S. and sought to adapt these principles for American youth. The BSA's incorporation marked the formal establishment of a structured organization that would promote values such as community service, self-reliance, and respect for nature among boys aged 11 to 17.

Initially, the BSA faced challenges, including competition from existing youth organizations and a need to adapt to American culture. Despite these hurdles, the organization expanded rapidly through local troops established in communities nationwide. The BSA emphasized moral education and was guided by the Scout Oath and Law, which outlined ideals of duty to God, country, others, and self. Through public relations efforts and community engagement, the BSA successfully captured the imagination of American families.

As the decades progressed, the BSA played a significant role in American culture, especially during times of war and national crises, promoting civic duty and patriotism among its members. Summer camps, merit badges, and various outdoor activities became hallmarks of the scouting experience, making it a rite of passage for many American boys. The incorporation of the BSA set the foundation for a youth movement that would influence generations, instilling a sense of community and leadership across rural and urban areas alike.