The modern animal welfare movement has its roots in the 19th century, when social reformers and humanitarians began to speak out against animal cruelty and advocate for improved treatment of animals. Organizations such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) in the United Kingdom and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in the United States were established to address animal welfare concerns and promote legislation protecting animals from abuse and neglect.