Our History
The U.S. Department of State has grown significantly over the years. The first Secretary of State, Thomas Jefferson, oversaw a small staff of one chief clerk, three other clerks, a translator, and a messenger. They maintained only two diplomatic posts, in London and Paris, as well as 10 consular posts. More than 230 years later, the Department’s workforce includes some 13,000 members of the Foreign Service, 11,000 Civil Service employees, and 45,000 locally employed staff at more than 270 diplomatic missions worldwide.
Our role has also changed in response to changing global circumstances. At one time, the State Department was responsible for a number of domestic duties ranging from publication of the census to control of copyright to management of the Mint. We now work to fight terrorism, protect U.S. interests abroad, and implement foreign policy initiatives while building a more free, prosperous, and secure world.
Explore our other websites for a more in-depth look at the State Department’s history and the impact of our work through the years and today.
About the U.S. Department of State

Our Mission
To protect and promote U.S. security, prosperity, and democratic values and shape an international environment in which all Americans can thrive.

Foreign Affairs Manual And Handbook
The FAM and FAH govern how we do our work.
JOINT STRATEGIC PLAN
Guides how the State Department and USAID implement U.S. foreign policy and development assistance.