On July 26, 1908, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was established, marking the creation of a federal law enforcement agency focused on handling major crimes and national security. The FBI, originally known as the Bureau of Investigation (BOI), was formed under the direction of Attorney General Charles Bonaparte during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt.

The early 20th century saw a rise in interstate crime, corruption, and espionage, necessitating the creation of a specialized agency with the authority to address these issues on a national level. The formation of the FBI was a response to these growing concerns, providing a centralized entity capable of investigating federal crimes and enforcing federal laws.

Initially, the BOI had a modest scope, focusing on issues such as antitrust violations, land fraud, and neutrality violations. However, over the decades, the Bureau’s responsibilities expanded significantly. During the 1920s and 1930s, under the leadership of J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI gained prominence for its efforts in combating organized crime, bank robberies, and the notorious gangsters of the era.

The FBI’s role further evolved during World War II and the Cold War, with a heightened focus on counterintelligence and espionage. The Bureau played a critical role in identifying and neutralizing threats to national security, including foreign spies and saboteurs. In the post-9/11 era, the FBI’s priorities shifted again, with an increased emphasis on counterterrorism and cybercrime.

Throughout its history, the FBI has been instrumental in addressing a wide range of criminal activities, from organized crime and public corruption to terrorism and cyber threats. The Bureau’s investigative techniques, technological advancements, and commitment to upholding the law have made it a cornerstone of the United States’ law enforcement and national security apparatus.