The Modern Language Association (MLA) is a professional organization in the United States that focuses on the study and teaching of language and literature. Founded in 1883, it aims to promote scholarly research and provide guidelines for writing and citation in the humanities, particularly in the fields of language and literature. One of the MLA's most significant contributions is the MLA Style, a widely used format for writing research papers and citing sources. This style helps ensure clarity and consistency in academic writing, making it easier for readers to understand and locate referenced materials.