Have you ever wondered about the origins of our name? Or would you simply like to learn how Berlitz evolved from a language school in the USA to a global provider of further education, offering business seminars, intercultural training, and diverse courses for children and teenagers? A look into our history provides answers. The key milestones of over 145 years tell the story of the discovery of the Berlitz Method, our advertising icon with horn-rimmed glasses, and other exciting developments.
The Year 1878: The First Berlitz Language School is Founded
Our well-established company name traces back to our founder, Maximilian D. Berlitz. At the age of 18, he emigrated from Germany to the USA, where he was proficient not only in his native language but also in French, Latin, and Greek. He quickly gained a reputation as a language teacher and became a professor of French and German. In 1878, he launched the first "Berlitz School of Languages" in Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
A Milestone: The Birth of the Berlitz Method
Whether by chance or fate, the traditional grammar-translation method was soon replaced by a more dynamic and interactive approach. When Berlitz hired an assistant who spoke only French, it became evident that the conventional teaching method was far less effective than actively speaking the new language from the very beginning. From that moment on, Maximilian increasingly adopted a teaching style that allowed students to fully immerse themselves in the new language—the Berlitz Method was born.
Expanding Worldwide: Berlitz Goes Global
The language school in Rhode Island soon could not meet the growing demand. As a result, Berlitz quickly opened additional branches on the West Coast of the United States. In 1886, he moved the company’s headquarters to New York. More schools followed in Europe: 1888 in Berlin, 1889 in Paris and London. By the end of the 19th century, there were nearly 100 Berlitz language schools worldwide.
Changing Times: Berlitz Between 1914 and 1945
The two world wars of the 20th century inevitably brought changes for Berlitz: School directors were drafted into military service, while their wives or secretaries were suddenly put in charge of running the schools. It became increasingly clear that women would play a significant role in shaping the company’s future. However, these were also times of fear: Many schools were destroyed, and Berlitz employees struggled to save teaching materials. In some cities, women successfully kept the schools running. Berlitz owes much to their courage and dedication.
The Golden 1960s: A New Era Begins
Confidence returned, and with it, Berlitz expanded significantly in Europe. International travel became more common, and a new generation sought out Berlitz to gain fundamental knowledge in their target language. The political and cultural influence of the USA further increased the demand for learning English. During this time, Charles Berlitz, vice president and grandson of Maximilian Berlitz, developed the multilingual Berlitz travel guides. More than 500 travel destinations were available in over 30 languages. Berlitz’s "Little Professor" was also soon to conquer the world.
The Little Professor: The Berlitz Advertising Icon
A small man with glasses, always smiling, sometimes holding a teaching stick, and occasionally with a pipe in his mouth—this was our "Little Professor." For about 25 years, he was the face of Berlitz, appearing on advertising posters, school books, and brochures. His message was always: "Immersing yourself in a foreign language with humor is fun and leads to faster success." Even though his time has passed, we have not forgotten the Little Professor, and he can still be found in select Berlitz learning materials today.
Total Language Immersion: Berlitz Total Immersion Launches in 1964
Berlitz Total Immersion, our most advanced learning program, launched in 1964. It is tailored to the individual needs of our students and enables them to fully immerse themselves in foreign languages. For example, a lunch with the instructor provides additional practice in social interactions, while a session with two instructors at the same time prepares students for business meetings. Participants can learn to communicate effectively—from simple social encounters to more complex business interactions—in just one to three weeks. The course is so effective that students often report dreaming in their new language during their intensive training.
From 1980: The Sahel Expedition and the Berlitz Foundation
Between 1988 and 1992, a Berlitz team from Brussels, in cooperation with several non-profit organizations, embarked on a unique mission: A Land Rover convoy traveled through the African desert to aid people in the Sahel region. Their cargo included essential medical supplies, non-perishable food, and technical equipment for digging wells. For the team, this was a dangerous expedition. However, the gratitude of families and children strengthened their resolve every day. Since then, Berlitz has continued to support children in need. In 2006, the Berlitz Educational Foundation was created in partnership with the children’s rights organization Plan International. The Berlitz Foundation is our contribution to giving children a better future by supporting their education.
Language Learning for Children: Berlitz Kids Launches in 1982
With age-appropriate activities and materials, Berlitz has long made it possible for children to explore the world of languages. Learning takes place through age-suitable materials, songs, and games in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, free of pressure. Berlitz Kids also specializes in multisensory materials designed for different age groups and everyday use. The program began in 1982, and today, our numerous language camps remain highly popular. For teenagers, Berlitz offers additional services such as language test preparation and tutoring.
Keeping Up with the Times: Berlitz in the Digital Age
Each decade writes its own stories and brings new demands. At Berlitz, we monitor trends and stay ahead of the times—such as with the introduction of online courses in the early 2000s. As more computers became household and office staples, online courses emerged as an innovative and convenient learning method. The course content has remained identical to in-person instruction from the beginning and can be recorded, making review and repetition easier.
Berlitz Today: Languages, Business Seminars, and Intercultural Training
Over the decades, we have continuously expanded our offerings. Today, in addition to language training, Berlitz provides a wide range of topics in business seminars and intercultural training. Our mission: "We support people on their professional and personal journeys, sharing practical knowledge with enthusiasm." Your personal goal is always our focus—because your success is our motivation, today and in the future.