This article highlights selected aspects of the activities of the French Geographical Society (est. 1821) during the first decades of its existence. Based on the reporting materials, the structure of the Society at the time of its foundation is determined, and the composition of the Society’s leadership is noted. Some forms of the Society’s activities and its contribution to the popularization of geographical knowledge are analysed.

The methodological basis of the study relies on the principles of historicism and objectivity. The use of historical-chronological, general scientific and comparative-historical methods ensures a relevant and comprehensive approach to the subject. The source base of the article was primarily composed of materials from the monthly journal La Géographie of the French Geographical Society. In addition, certain periodical publications and works authored by members of the Society were used in the study. General articles on the Society’s activities are also considered valuable sources.

As a result of the study, it was proven that all forms of activity undertaken by the French Geographical Society were effective and productive. The scientific and fieldwork achievements of its members formed the basis for the further development of geographical science and contributed to the popularization of this knowledge among the public. The Society’s cartographic efforts notably expanded public understanding of the geographic representation of the world. The article also highlights references to Ukraine as a distinct state. The article analyses the Regulations on Activities adopted by the Society at its second meeting in 1822. It is determined that the Society proposed the formation of research groups tasked with compiling comprehensive reports on the work, based on preliminary discussions of research results. The operations of the Society laid the foundation for the advancement of geographical science globally and inspired the creation of similar societies in Germany and England. It has also been shown that French geographers who were members of the Geographical Society, or who had close scientific ties with it, considered geographic regions within a global context in their research. The activities of the French Geographical Society contributed to the development of geographical science not only in France but also internationally.

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