Scientists have long recognized the value of having statistical data to measure the scope and vitality of education, research, and workforce development in their fields. Such data support evidence-based policy discussions in professional and governmental forums. Since 1982, the National Science Board has been required by law to publish "Science and Engineering Indicators" (SEI), a biennial report providing a range of quantitative information about U.S. science, engineering, and technology in domestic and global contexts. With the SEI data available as an authoritative point of reference, stakeholders can engage in well-informed discussions and make consequential decisions about investments in science and technology, including STEM education and basic research in colleges and universities. Following the model of the SEI, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences initiated the Humanities Indicators, a demonstration project to enrich public understanding of the humanities by increasing empirical knowledge of the humanities in action, both within schools and colleges as well as in other social contexts. The Indicators provide a prototype for collecting data necessary to answer questions about the state of the humanities and how they are faring. For the first time, there is in one place baseline statistics about many areas of concern to the humanities community, including K-12 education in the humanities, undergraduate and graduate education in the humanities, the humanities workforce, research and funding for the humanities, and the humanities in American life beyond the academy. The project also enables the coherent tracking of a variety of trends in the humanities. (Contains 3 figures and 1 online resource.)