United States Department of State

The United States Department of State (DOS), or simply the State Department, is an executive department of the U.S. federal government responsible for the country's foreign policy and relations. Equivalent to the ministry of foreign affairs of other nations, its primary duties are advising the U.S. president on international relations, administering diplomatic missions, negotiating international treaties and agreements, and representing the U.S. at the United Nations. The department is headquartered in the Harry S Truman Building, a few blocks from the White House, in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C.; "Foggy Bottom" is thus sometimes used as a metonym.
united-states-department-of-state

Some of the key events about United States Department of State

  • 1789
    Established as the first executive department of the U.S. government
  • 1803
    Negotiated the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the size of the United States
  • 1823
    Formulated the Monroe Doctrine, asserting U.S. protection over the Western Hemisphere
  • 1846
    Supported the annexation of Texas, leading to the Mexican-American War
  • 1867
    Orchestrated the purchase of Alaska from Russia
  • 1898
    Negotiated the Treaty of Paris, ending the Spanish-American War
  • 1898
    Advocated for the annexation of Hawaii, undermining Hawaiian sovereignty
  • 1903
    Orchestrated the separation of Panama from Colombia to secure rights for the Panama Canal
  • 1947
    Implemented the Marshall Plan to rebuild post-World War II Europe
  • 1954
    Involved in covert operations to overthrow Guatemala's democratically elected government
  • 1961
    Established the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
  • 1961
    Supported the failed Bay of Pigs invasion attempt in Cuba
  • 1965
    Escalated U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War
  • 1969
    Played a key role in negotiating the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
  • 1973
    Supported the coup against Chile's democratically elected government
  • 1979
    Facilitated the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel
  • 1983
    Provided inaccurate intelligence leading to the invasion of Grenada
  • 1991
    Led diplomatic efforts to form the international coalition in the Gulf War
  • 2002
    Presented flawed intelligence to justify the invasion of Iraq
  • 2010
    Leaked classified diplomatic cables through WikiLeaks, compromising international relations

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

United States Department of State Latest news

US Lawmaker Pushes for Swift Weapons Delivery to Israel Amid Regional Tensions

US Lawmaker Pushes for Swift Weapons Delivery to Israel Amid Regional Tensions

October 3 2024, 11:42 PM  •  153 views
U.S. Passport Processing Times Reduced to 4-6 Weeks

U.S. Passport Processing Times Reduced to 4-6 Weeks

October 3 2024, 10:25 PM  •  389 views
North Korean Arms Fuel Russia's War Machine, Raising Global Concerns

North Korean Arms Fuel Russia's War Machine, Raising Global Concerns

October 3 2024, 06:58 PM  •  429 views
Ex-U.S. Marine Faces Extended Sentence in Russian Prison Saga

Ex-U.S. Marine Faces Extended Sentence in Russian Prison Saga

October 3 2024, 02:20 PM  •  2167 views
U.S. Resident from Dearborn Dies in Lebanon Amid Israeli Military Actions

U.S. Resident from Dearborn Dies in Lebanon Amid Israeli Military Actions

October 2 2024, 10:38 PM  •  4375 views
U.S. Arranges Evacuation Flight for Citizens Amid Lebanon-Israel Tensions

U.S. Arranges Evacuation Flight for Citizens Amid Lebanon-Israel Tensions

October 2 2024, 06:09 PM  •  492 views
U.S. Backs Israel's Actions, Condemns Iran's Missile Attack

U.S. Backs Israel's Actions, Condemns Iran's Missile Attack

October 2 2024, 10:04 AM  •  31 views
US Warns Iran of Consequences Following Missile Attack on Israel

US Warns Iran of Consequences Following Missile Attack on Israel

October 1 2024, 10:17 PM  •  46 views
US Aids Citizens' Departure from Lebanon Amid Israeli Ground Raids

US Aids Citizens' Departure from Lebanon Amid Israeli Ground Raids

October 1 2024, 10:17 PM  •  45 views
U.S. Diplomacy in Gaza: A Critical Examination of Policies and Consequences

U.S. Diplomacy in Gaza: A Critical Examination of Policies and Consequences

October 1 2024, 10:13 PM  •  115 views
Cambodian Investigative Reporter Faces Prison for Social Media Posts

Cambodian Investigative Reporter Faces Prison for Social Media Posts

October 1 2024, 09:58 PM  •  95 views
Cambodian Journalist Faces Prison for "Inciting Social Unrest"

Cambodian Journalist Faces Prison for "Inciting Social Unrest"

October 1 2024, 09:54 PM  •  31 views
Israel Defies U.S. Diplomacy in Lebanon Conflict, Straining Alliance

Israel Defies U.S. Diplomacy in Lebanon Conflict, Straining Alliance

October 1 2024, 12:16 AM  •  528 views
Rocket Attack on U.S. Base Near Baghdad Airport Thwarted by Air Defenses

Rocket Attack on U.S. Base Near Baghdad Airport Thwarted by Air Defenses

September 30 2024, 10:24 PM  •  494 views
India's Muslims Grapple with Citizenship Law Amid Document Challenges

India's Muslims Grapple with Citizenship Law Amid Document Challenges

September 30 2024, 10:11 PM  •  100 views
Israel Conducts Limited Operations Against Hezbollah, US Confirms

Israel Conducts Limited Operations Against Hezbollah, US Confirms

September 30 2024, 10:09 PM  •  94 views
India's Muslims Face Uncertainty Amid Citizenship Law Implementation

India's Muslims Face Uncertainty Amid Citizenship Law Implementation

September 30 2024, 10:05 PM  •  43 views
Sanctioned LNG Tanker Navigates Suez Canal Amid Regional Tensions

Sanctioned LNG Tanker Navigates Suez Canal Amid Regional Tensions

September 30 2024, 12:53 PM  •  992 views
Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Rising Tensions

Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Rising Tensions

September 29 2024, 03:36 PM  •  1145 views
Iranian Hackers Charged in Trump Campaign Cyber Attack

Iranian Hackers Charged in Trump Campaign Cyber Attack

September 27 2024, 08:29 PM  •  202 views
Ukraine to Unveil Detailed "Victory Plan" at Upcoming Ramstein Meeting

Ukraine to Unveil Detailed "Victory Plan" at Upcoming Ramstein Meeting

Ukraine prepares to present its strategy for ending the conflict with Russia at an allied meeting in Germany. The plan, previously shared with U.S. officials, has received mixed reactions from analysts.

Society, Politics •   •  625 views
Elderly American Faces Potential 7-Year Sentence in Russia for Alleged Ukraine Ties

Elderly American Faces Potential 7-Year Sentence in Russia for Alleged Ukraine Ties

Russian prosecutor seeks 7-year term for 72-year-old American accused of Ukraine mercenary work. Family disputes confession as trial concludes behind closed doors in Moscow.

Society, Politics •   •  616 views
U.S. Citizen Dies in Lebanon Amid Escalating Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

U.S. Citizen Dies in Lebanon Amid Escalating Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

A U. S. citizen from Michigan was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon. The State Department confirmed the casualty, emphasizing the need to protect civilians in the ongoing conflict.

Society, Politics •   •  265 views
US and South Korea Reach New Military Cost-Sharing Agreement

US and South Korea Reach New Military Cost-Sharing Agreement

The US and South Korea have tentatively agreed on a new five-year deal for sharing costs of US military presence. The agreement, pending approval, will increase South Korea's contribution by 8.3% in the first year.

Politics •   •  659 views
Biden Administration Grapples with Gaza Crisis as War Anniversary Looms

Biden Administration Grapples with Gaza Crisis as War Anniversary Looms

Internal emails reveal early concerns about Gaza casualties and potential war crimes. U.S. officials debated humanitarian issues and military aid to Israel as the conflict unfolded.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 05:49 PM  •  366 views
U.S. Unveils Russia's Multi-Faceted Influence Operations in September Crackdown

U.S. Unveils Russia's Multi-Faceted Influence Operations in September Crackdown

U. S. authorities exposed Russia's diverse influence tactics, including fake domains and covert funding of influencers. The revelations highlight the need for multi-stakeholder action to combat foreign interference effectively.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 11:42 AM  •  4546 views
Historic D.C. Home, Once Owned by Trailblazing Journalist, Listed for $1.3M

Historic D.C. Home, Once Owned by Trailblazing Journalist, Listed for $1.3M

A 1938 Colonial in D. C.'s Crestwood neighborhood, formerly owned by Dorothy Butler Gilliam, the first Black female journalist at The Washington Post, is now on the market. The house boasts a rich history and significant renovations.

Society, Culture • October 4 2024, 09:07 AM  •  414 views
U.S. Facilitates Limited Evacuation from Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. Facilitates Limited Evacuation from Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

As conflict escalates in Lebanon, the U. S. arranges flights for about 250 Americans. Officials meet to address evacuation challenges, while thousands of U.S. citizens remain amid airstrikes and dwindling flight options.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 03:19 AM  •  595 views
Five Nations Discuss African Union's Somalia Mission Funding and Plans

Five Nations Discuss African Union's Somalia Mission Funding and Plans

Five countries, including the US, met to finalize plans and funding for the African Union's new stabilization mission in Somalia. The urgent meeting addressed critical support for the conflict-ridden nation.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 12:32 AM  •  557 views
Michigan Governor Urges Action for Americans Trapped in Lebanon Conflict

Michigan Governor Urges Action for Americans Trapped in Lebanon Conflict

Michigan's governor calls for increased efforts to rescue Americans in Lebanon amid Israeli military operations. A U.S. citizen from Dearborn was killed in an airstrike, prompting criticism of the government's response.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 12:02 AM  •  433 views
US Lawmaker Pushes for Swift Weapons Delivery to Israel Amid Regional Tensions

US Lawmaker Pushes for Swift Weapons Delivery to Israel Amid Regional Tensions

A key US congressman urges President Biden to expedite weapons shipments to Israel, including controversial large bombs. The request comes amid escalating Middle East conflicts and delayed arms sales approvals.

Society, Politics • October 3 2024, 11:42 PM  •  153 views
U.S. Passport Processing Times Reduced to 4-6 Weeks

U.S. Passport Processing Times Reduced to 4-6 Weeks

The U. S. State Department has shortened passport processing times to 4-6 weeks for routine service. This improvement, along with the full availability of online renewals, marks significant progress in passport issuance efficiency.

Society, Politics • October 3 2024, 10:25 PM  •  389 views
North Korean Arms Fuel Russia's War Machine, Raising Global Concerns

North Korean Arms Fuel Russia's War Machine, Raising Global Concerns

North Korea's massive ammunition shipments to Russia significantly impact Ukraine's defense. This partnership raises alarms about technology transfers and regional stability in Northeast Asia.

Politics • October 3 2024, 06:58 PM  •  429 views
Ex-U.S. Marine Faces Extended Sentence in Russian Prison Saga

Ex-U.S. Marine Faces Extended Sentence in Russian Prison Saga

Russian prosecutor seeks 9-year sentence for former U. S. Marine Robert Gilman, already imprisoned for assaulting an officer. Verdict expected as tensions persist between U.S. and Russia.

Society, Politics • October 3 2024, 02:20 PM  •  2167 views
U.S. Resident from Dearborn Dies in Lebanon Amid Israeli Military Actions

U.S. Resident from Dearborn Dies in Lebanon Amid Israeli Military Actions

A U. S. permanent resident from Dearborn, Michigan, has died in Lebanon. The incident occurs amidst ongoing Israeli military operations in the region, sparking discussions on U.S. foreign policy.

Society, Politics, Culture • October 2 2024, 10:38 PM  •  4375 views
U.S. Arranges Evacuation Flight for Citizens Amid Lebanon-Israel Tensions

U.S. Arranges Evacuation Flight for Citizens Amid Lebanon-Israel Tensions

The U. S. State Department organized a flight from Beirut to Istanbul, evacuating about 100 Americans due to escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Thousands registered for departure information.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 06:09 PM  •  492 views
U.S. Backs Israel's Actions, Condemns Iran's Missile Attack

U.S. Backs Israel's Actions, Condemns Iran's Missile Attack

Biden administration distinguishes between Israeli self-defense and Iran's "escalatory" missile attack. U.S. supports Israel's operations against Hezbollah while aiming to prevent wider Middle East conflict.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 10:04 AM  •  31 views
US Warns Iran of Consequences Following Missile Attack on Israel

US Warns Iran of Consequences Following Missile Attack on Israel

Iran launched a significant missile attack on Israel, which was largely thwarted with US assistance. The US warns of severe consequences, marking an escalation in regional tensions despite ongoing ceasefire efforts.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 10:17 PM  •  46 views
US Aids Citizens' Departure from Lebanon Amid Israeli Ground Raids

US Aids Citizens' Departure from Lebanon Amid Israeli Ground Raids

The US is facilitating additional flights from Lebanon for its citizens, as Israel conducts ground raids. About 6,000 Americans have registered for departure information, though not all seek assistance.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 10:17 PM  •  45 views
U.S. Diplomacy in Gaza: A Critical Examination of Policies and Consequences

U.S. Diplomacy in Gaza: A Critical Examination of Policies and Consequences

Analysis of U. S. diplomatic shortcomings in Gaza and the West Bank, exploring restrictive policies, their impacts, and the need for reform to restore effective engagement in the region.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 10:13 PM  •  115 views
Cambodian Investigative Reporter Faces Prison for Social Media Posts

Cambodian Investigative Reporter Faces Prison for Social Media Posts

Mech Dara, a renowned Cambodian journalist, has been charged with incitement over social media content. His arrest has sparked international concern and highlights Cambodia's press freedom challenges.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 09:58 PM  •  95 views
Cambodian Journalist Faces Prison for "Inciting Social Unrest"

Cambodian Journalist Faces Prison for "Inciting Social Unrest"

Mech Dara, an award-winning Cambodian journalist, has been charged with inciting social unrest. His arrest has sparked concern among rights groups and the U.S. government, highlighting Cambodia's declining press freedom.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 09:54 PM  •  31 views
Israel Defies U.S. Diplomacy in Lebanon Conflict, Straining Alliance

Israel Defies U.S. Diplomacy in Lebanon Conflict, Straining Alliance

Israel's military actions in Lebanon challenge U. S. diplomatic efforts, revealing limited American influence. Netanyahu's disregard for Biden administration's cease-fire requests strains the alliance amid regional tensions.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 12:16 AM  •  528 views
Rocket Attack on U.S. Base Near Baghdad Airport Thwarted by Air Defenses

Rocket Attack on U.S. Base Near Baghdad Airport Thwarted by Air Defenses

U. S. forces in Iraq targeted by rockets near Baghdad airport. Air defenses intercept attack, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region amidst U.S.-Iran tensions.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 10:24 PM  •  494 views
India's Muslims Grapple with Citizenship Law Amid Document Challenges

India's Muslims Grapple with Citizenship Law Amid Document Challenges

India's Muslim community faces uncertainty as the Citizenship Amendment Act takes effect. Lawyer Nadeem Siddiqui aids thousands in document correction, highlighting the complex process and socio-economic hurdles.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 10:11 PM  •  100 views
Israel Conducts Limited Operations Against Hezbollah, US Confirms

Israel Conducts Limited Operations Against Hezbollah, US Confirms

Israel informs US of targeted actions against Hezbollah infrastructure near Lebanese border. Concerns rise over potential ground incursion as regional tensions escalate.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 10:09 PM  •  94 views
India's Muslims Face Uncertainty Amid Citizenship Law Implementation

India's Muslims Face Uncertainty Amid Citizenship Law Implementation

India's Muslim community grapples with fears of exclusion as the Citizenship Amendment Act takes effect. Document correction efforts intensify, highlighting socio-economic challenges and concerns about discrimination.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 10:05 PM  •  43 views
Sanctioned LNG Tanker Navigates Suez Canal Amid Regional Tensions

Sanctioned LNG Tanker Navigates Suez Canal Amid Regional Tensions

A US-sanctioned LNG tanker has traversed the Suez Canal, defying regional security concerns. This passage highlights ongoing challenges in global shipping and energy trade amidst geopolitical tensions.

Economics, Politics • September 30 2024, 12:53 PM  •  992 views
Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Rising Tensions

Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Rising Tensions

US military enhances air support in Middle East, placing troops on high alert. Pentagon warns Iran against conflict expansion, responding to Israel's actions against Hezbollah leadership.

Politics • September 29 2024, 03:36 PM  •  1145 views
Iranian Hackers Charged in Trump Campaign Cyber Attack

Iranian Hackers Charged in Trump Campaign Cyber Attack

U. S. Justice Department unveils charges against Iranian operatives for hacking Trump's 2024 campaign. The move aims to counter election interference and includes sanctions and rewards for information.

Politics • September 27 2024, 08:29 PM  •  202 views