In 1865, William Booth, who was then a Methodist Minister, conducted some meetings in the East End of London.  His heart was filled with compassion for the lost and wretched people he saw, and he determined to devote his life to their salvation.

Starting with the street meetings in front of saloons, William, along with his wife Catherine, was able to make converts in spite of the attacks, taunts, and gibes flung at them.  The converts were trained by William Booth to assist him in his work.  An old warehouse was secured for indoor gatherings, which were constantly crowded.  For some years the work was carried on under the name of "The Christian Mission", but in 1878, the name was changed to "The Salvation Army".

Because of the military significance of the name, a quasi-military (using military ranks and terminology) form of government was set up, with William Booth as "General" and the adoption of a type of uniform patterned on the British military.  At the time of the Founder's death in August, 1912, officers and soldiers of the Army were preaching salvation in 34 languages in 58 countries and colonies and had nearly 16,000 officers and cadets.  Today the Army serves around the world in 106 countries.