United States Secret Service

In this episode, we explore the history of the United States Secret Service, from its founding in 1865 as an agency created to combat widespread currency counterfeiting to its later expansion into one of the nation’s most visible protective forces. We trace how the assassination of President William McKinley in 1901 reshaped the agency’s mission, leading to its responsibility for safeguarding the President, Vice President, and other key officials. The episode also examines the Secret Service’s dual role in protecting both national leaders and the country’s financial infrastructure, including its work against fraud, cybercrime, and threats to major national events. Along the way, we look at the agency’s personnel, training, equipment, moments of bravery, and the challenges and controversies that have shaped its modern reputation.