The FBI was originally called the Bureau of Investigation.
Establishing the Bureau of Investigation
When the organization that is now known as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was first established in 1908, it began its operations under the name Bureau of Investigation. This initial designation reflected its primary function as a federal investigative agency. During this period, it was commonly referred to by its shorter abbreviations, such as the BOI or BI.
Transformation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation
The agency continued under the Bureau of Investigation name for several decades. It was officially renamed the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1935, which is when the well-known acronym FBI was adopted. This change signified its expanded role and jurisdiction across the United States.
Here's a quick look at the evolution of its name:
| Year | Name | Abbreviation |
|---|---|---|
| 1908 | Bureau of Investigation | BOI / BI |
| 1935 | Federal Bureau of Investigation | FBI |
Key Aspects of the FBI's Identity
Today, the FBI is a prominent federal law enforcement agency. Its headquarters are located in the J. Edgar Hoover Building in Washington, D.C. The agency is responsible for investigating a wide range of federal crimes and is also notably known for maintaining a list of the top 10 most wanted fugitives, underscoring its commitment to national security and public safety.
