100 years of GAMM: Motivation, history and achievements

Abstract The International Association of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics (Gesellschaft für Angewandte Mathematik und Mechanik, GAMM) was founded in 1923 with the goal to strengthen the field of scientific engineering by the foundation of an Engineering Association with strong scientific contacts to Applied Mathematics. Already at the Leipzig Naturalists' Day (Leipziger Naturforschertag) in 1922, the idea of combining mathematical and mechanical knowledge arose and led to the decision to found a German engineering association with close organizational ties to the Association of German Engineers (Verein Deutscher Ingenieure, VDI). This was the origin of GAMM, where 26 people spontaneously signed up to join the upcoming society. GAMM has grown over the years and currently (in 2023) has 1338 full members from 40 countries and 9 institutional members. The present article sheds light on the history of GAMM between 1921 and 2023 and also examines the motivations behind the founding and ongoing promotion of GAMM. In addition, it considers the achievements of GAMM members and further scientists over the years.