The modern language association of america ("MLA") is a nonprofit organization devoted to encouraging the study and teaching of modern languages and literatures. Founded in 1883, the MLA works to advance the interests of the field in the higher education community and among the general public. The association was incorporated on april 5, 1900, by the general assembly of maryland for "educational, scientific, and social objects and purposes, and more specifically for the promotion of the academic and scientific study of the english, german, french, spanish, italian and other so-called modern languages and literatures." the MLA constitution states that the object of the association shall be to promote study, criticism, and research in the more and less commonly taught modern languages and their literatures and to further the common interests of teachers of these subjects.