J. Edgar Hoover

J. Edgar Hoover was the first Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), serving from 1935 to 1972. He played a crucial role in shaping the FBI into a powerful and influential federal agency. Hoover is known for modernizing crime fighting techniques, including the use of forensic science and centralized criminal records. However, his tenure was also marked by controversial practices, such as covert surveillance and harassment of activists, civil rights leaders, and political figures, raising questions about civil liberties. His legacy is complex, reflecting both significant advancements in law enforcement and serious ethical concerns.