History of the Central Intelligence Agency

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is a civilian foreign intelligence service of the United States federal government. It is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating intelligence to support national security, primarily through overseas operations and sources. The agency was established by the National Security Act of 1947, enacted in response to intelligence coordination failures identified during World War II, including the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The CIA succeeded wartime intelligence organizations such as the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and subsequent transitional bodies that assumed intelligence responsibilities prior to the agency's formal establishment. Since its founding, the CIA has played a central role in U.S. intelligence operations, including strategic analysis, espionage, and covert operations. Its development has been shaped by evolving geopolitical priorities, statutory authorities, and oversight mechanisms.

The lives of 139 CIA officers who died in the line of duty are commemorated by 139 stars engraved on the CIA Memorial Wall in the Original Headquarters Building.