In which year was the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the United States established?

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the principal federal law enforcement agency of the United States, was established in 1908. It was created during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt and originally named the Bureau of Investigation (BOI). The FBI was formed to address increasing crime rates, interstate criminal activities, and threats to national security. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most prominent law enforcement and intelligence agencies in the world.

The FBI’s early mandate included investigating violations of federal laws, gathering intelligence, and supporting U.S. attorneys in prosecuting crimes. In 1935, it officially became known as the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Its headquarters is located in Washington, D.C., and it operates field offices in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international offices to coordinate with global law enforcement agencies.

The agency is responsible for a wide range of functions, including counterterrorism, counterintelligence, cybercrime prevention, organized crime investigations, and civil rights enforcement. Under legendary directors like J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI developed advanced investigative techniques, forensic labs, and intelligence networks that set global standards.

For students preparing for General Knowledge MCQs, knowing that the FBI was established in 1908 is important for topics related to U.S. history, law enforcement, and international organizations. This knowledge frequently appears in competitive exams and quizzes covering world history, government institutions, and global security agencies.