The Central Intelligence Agency 

The Central Intelligence Agency was created in 1947 with the signing of the National Security Act by President Truman. The National Security Act charged the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) with coordinating the nation’s intelligence activities and correlating, evaluating, and disseminating intelligence which affects national security. 

George J. Tenet was confirmed July 10, 1997, as the current Director of Central Intelligence (DCI). The DCI serves as head of the United States Intelligence Community, principal advisor to the President for Intelligence matters related to national security, and head of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). 

The CIA is an independent agency, responsible to the President through the DCI, and accountable to the American people through the intelligence oversight committees of the U.S. Congress.

CIA’s mission is to support the President, the National Security Council, and all officials who make and execute U.S. national security policy by:

·        Providing accurate, comprehensive, and timely foreign intelligence on national security topics 

·        Conducting counterintelligence activities, special activities, and other functions related to foreign intelligence and national security, as directed by the President 

To accomplish its mission, the CIA engages in research, development, and deployment of high-leverage technology for intelligence purposes. As a separate agency, CIA serves as an independent source of analysis on topics of concern and works closely with the other organizations in the Intelligence Community to ensure that the intelligence consumer — whether Washington policymaker or battlefield commander — receives the best intelligence possible.