U.S. Information Agency

Overview
The U.S. Information Agency existed from 1953 to 1999. It was an independent foreign affairs agency within the executive branch of the U.S. government. USIA explained and supported American foreign policy and promoted U.S. national interests through a wide range of overseas information programs. The agency promoted mutual understanding between the United States and other nations by conducting educational and cultural activities. USIA maintained 190 posts in 142 countries. Overseas, USIA was known as USIS, the U.S. Information Service. Pursuant to the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998, USIA was integrated into the Department of State on October 1, 1999.