Published: July 23, 2026
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is the principal federal law enforcement and domestic intelligence agency of the United States. For more than a century, the FBI has investigated some of the nation's most significant criminal cases, protected national security, fought terrorism, and helped enforce federal law.
Known around the world through real-life investigations, documentaries, and films, the FBI remains one of the most recognized law enforcement agencies globally.
What Is the FBI?
The FBI is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Justice. Its mission is to protect the American people, uphold the Constitution, and investigate violations of federal law.
Unlike local police departments, the FBI investigates crimes that fall under federal jurisdiction and often works with state, local, and international law enforcement agencies.
When Was the FBI Created?
The FBI was established on July 26, 1908, during the administration of President Theodore Roosevelt.
It was originally called the Bureau of Investigation (BOI) before being renamed the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1935.
What Does the FBI Do?
The FBI investigates a wide range of federal crimes, including:
- Terrorism
- Cybercrime
- Public corruption
- Organized crime
- Kidnapping
- Financial fraud
- Civil rights violations
- Espionage
- Human trafficking
- Violent crimes that cross state lines
The agency also plays a major role in counterintelligence and protecting the United States from foreign threats.
FBI Headquarters
The FBI's headquarters is located in Washington, D.C.
In addition to its headquarters, the agency operates dozens of field offices across the United States and maintains legal attaché offices in countries around the world to support international investigations.
How FBI Agents Are Selected
Special Agents undergo a competitive hiring process that includes:
- Background investigations
- Physical fitness assessments
- Written examinations
- Interviews
- Extensive training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia
Training covers law, investigative techniques, firearms, defensive tactics, and intelligence operations.
Famous FBI Cases
Throughout its history, the FBI has investigated many high-profile cases, including:
- Organized crime investigations
- Bank robberies during the early 20th century
- Major terrorism investigations
- Cybersecurity threats
- Public corruption cases
- International espionage operations
Many of these investigations have shaped modern law enforcement practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does FBI stand for?
Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Who oversees the FBI?
The FBI operates under the U.S. Department of Justice.
Can the FBI investigate crimes anywhere?
The FBI investigates violations of federal law and often works with local and international agencies.
Where do FBI agents train?
The FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Conclusion
For more than 100 years, the FBI has played a central role in protecting the United States from crime, terrorism, espionage, and cyber threats. Through its investigations and intelligence work, the agency continues to be one of the most important institutions in American law enforcement and national security.
