What is the CIA

History of the CIA: 

Today’s CIA–What We Do:

Overview of CIA’s organization:

How information gets classified: 

Different kinds of intelligence:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Some good books
relating to CIA and
American intelligence:

CIA Publications

CIA Today Brochure CoverWhat is the CIA

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is an independent agency, responsible for providing national security intelligence to senior US policymakers.  The Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) serves as the principal adviser to the President and the National Security Council (NSC) on all matters of foreign intelligence related to national security.  Both the Director and Deputy Director of Central Intelligence are appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.