Bureau of Insular Affairs

The Bureau of Insular Affairs was a U.S. government agency established in 1900 to oversee territories acquired by the United States, like Puerto Rico and the Philippines, following the Spanish-American War. Its role was to manage the administration and governance of these territories, addressing issues such as education, infrastructure, and civil rights. The Bureau sought to integrate these regions into the U.S. framework while balancing local needs and American interests. It played a significant part in shaping the political and social landscape of these insular areas until its functions were largely transferred to other agencies in the mid-20th century.