The Southern Literary Society was founded in 1866 in the United States to promote literature and foster a sense of community among writers and readers in the South. It aimed to provide a platform for Southern authors to share their work and engage in discussions about literature, culture, and the arts. The society played a significant role in the literary landscape of the South, encouraging the development of regional writers and contributing to the preservation of Southern culture. Notable members included William Gilmore Simms and Paul Hamilton Hayne, who helped shape the society's mission and influence Southern literature.