Image for William J. Donovan

William J. Donovan

William J. Donovan was an influential American lawyer, military officer, and intelligence chief, best known for his role during World War II. He served as the head of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor to the CIA, where he helped organize intelligence and espionage efforts against Axis powers. Donovan was instrumental in developing covert operations that shaped modern intelligence practices. After the war, he continued to advocate for intelligence reform and national security. His legacy is marked by a commitment to blending effective military strategy with intelligence coordination, making him a key figure in American intelligence history.