Ask Molly: Origins of America’s Intelligence

Dear Molly,

I've been learning about the history of CIA and its forerunners. It got me wondering: how far back do our country's intelligence activities go?

~ Dawn of Intelligence

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Dear Dawn of Intelligence,

From the beginning, there were spies. Let me explain.

It might surprise you, but our Nation's earliest intelligence activities began while we were still fighting for independence from British rule.

General George Washington, before becoming the first American President, mastered the art of intelligence. As Commander of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, he utilized agents behind enemy lines, recruited sources from among the Patriots and the Tories (those loyal to the British Crown), and launched agents on both intelligence and counterintelligence missions.

The name of a lesser-known Revolutionary-era spy hero is Hercules Mulligan. He ran a successful clothing emporium in New York that catered to high-ranking British military officers. His unassuming role allowed Mulligan to collect secrets and warn of the enemy's plans to ambush General Washington, saving the General's life not once, but twice!

There was also Nathan Hale, who is sometimes praised as the country's first intelligence officer and whose statue watches over officers at Langley. Hale volunteered to spy against the British Army to defend American freedom. Though he was captured and executed by the Redcoats in 1776, his legacy of patriotism and sacrifice live on.

We'll be spotlighting even more of America's original spies as we celebrate America's 250th founding anniversary throughout the year. Hope you'll keep exploring our stories on CIA.gov and follow us on social media to stay in the know.

~ Molly