While the United States has had some kind of intelligence capability throughout its history, its intelligence apparatus is young, dating only to the period immediately after World War II. Yet, in that short a time, it has undergone enormous changes—from the labor-intensive espionage and covert action establishment of the 1950s to a modern enterprise that relies heavily on electronic data, technology, satellites, airborne collection platforms, and unmanned aerial vehicles, to name a few.

This second edition covers the history of United States intelligence, and includes several key features:
·Chronology
·Introductory essay
·Appendixes
·Bibliography
·Over 600 cross-referenced entries on key events, issues, people, operations, laws, regulations

This book is an excellent access point for members of the intelligence community; students, scholars, and historians; legal experts; and general readers wanting to know more about the history of U.S. intelligence.