The American Birth Control League was founded by Margaret Sanger, a prominent advocate for birth control and women's reproductive rights, to ensure that women had access to contraception and could make informed choices about their bodies. Sanger recognized the dire need for birth control information and resources, as women often faced dire circumstances due to unplanned pregnancies. Through her efforts, the league aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of family planning, health education, and the rights of women in the context of their reproductive health. The incorporation of the league in New York marked a significant step in the organized movement advocating for birth control, positioning it as a formal entity dedicated to these goals. The league would go on to sponsor research, distribute contraceptives, and educate women and medical professionals about birth control methods.

The 1920s saw changing social attitudes towards women's roles and rights, spurred by the suffrage movement and the effects of World War I. The incorporation of the league represented a shift in understanding around women’s health, a subject often shrouded in stigma and taboo. By promoting the availability of contraceptives, the league sought to empower women by providing them control over their reproductive lives, which was seen as essential for their economic independence and overall well-being. This was particularly important in the rapidly changing societal landscape of the early twentieth century, where many women were beginning to seek more autonomy and voice in both public and private spheres.