Central Intelligence Agency ( CIA ), principal foreign intelligence and counterintelligence agency of the U.S. government. Formally created in 1947, the Central Intelligence Agency ( CIA ) grew out of the World War II Office of Strategic Services (OSS). CIA is the world's premier foreign intelligence agency that collects and analyzes information and conducts covert action for U.S. leaders. Learn about CIA 's history, mission, careers, and World Factbook. CIA is the nation's premier agency providing global intelligence in an ever-changing political, social, economic, technological, & military landscapes. Our mission is straightforward but critical: protect America's national security. We collect valuable foreign intelligence, conduct timely analysis, & execute effective covert actions. The CIA seal features several symbols: an eagle for alertness, a shield for defense, and a compass rose for global intelligence collection.
