The federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is a national agency dedicated to investigation federal crimes. Founded as a small team of special agents on July 26, 1908, the Bureau was first charged with enforcing the growing body of federal laws covering the United States as a whole. Almost from the beginning of its 100-year history, the Bureau has been the subject of legend and controversy. It has also evolved into a vast and sophisticated national law-enforcement agency. Whether as a federal crime-fighting force or a source of investigative support of local and state police forces, the modern FBI strives to embody its ideals of fidelity, bravery, and integrity. How did the FBI capture the Oklahoma City bomber in just two days? How did it track down the killer of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in just a few weeks? Why did it take years to solve the infamous 1950 Brink's robbery? How have ordinary citizens helped bring down the nation's most wanted criminals? Whether it takes careful forensic science, years of investigative work, a carefully laid trap, or a timely tip, the FBI uses every tool at its disposal to catch the targets of its investigations.
