In 1948 a group of enthusiastic Rhodesian Ridgeback owners organized with the primary purpose of gaining recognition of the breed by the American Kennel Club (the "AKC"). In 1955, their goal was met when the AKC officially recognized the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Two prominent Ridgeback clubs were combined in March 1959 to form the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States ("RRCUS"). RRCUS was incorporated in April 1968 and became a member club of the AKC in  March 1971.