The United Nations first convened on January 10, 1946, following the end of World War II. Established to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts, the UN aimed to foster dialogue among nations and address global issues such as security, human rights, and economic development. The founding conference took place in San Francisco, where representatives from 50 countries gathered to draft the UN Charter, which was subsequently ratified. The organization laid the foundation for a new international order, reflecting a collective commitment to peace, stability, and collaboration in a war-torn world.