: Originally a bureau within the Department of the Treasury , agents focused on raiding counterfeit coin operations and investigating financial fraud. The Shift to Protection
: Over the century, protection grew to include the President-elect (1908), the immediate family (1917), and eventually former presidents and visiting world leaders. 150+ Years of History - Secret Service Secrets of the Secret Service: The History and ...
: By the end of the Civil War, nearly one-third to one-half of all U.S. currency in circulation was counterfeit. : Originally a bureau within the Department of
Contrary to popular belief, the Secret Service was not created to protect presidents. Established on , its primary goal was to save the American economy from collapse. currency in circulation was counterfeit
The agency’s protective mandate was born out of tragedy. For decades, presidents were protected by unofficial watchmen or local police.
: Full-time responsibility was assumed in 1902, starting with just two agents assigned to the White House Detail.
Secrets of the Secret Service: The History and Uncertain Future