alternatehistory.com

While many find this idea strange, prior to WWII the United States had no permanent intelligence agencies. In spite of being supported by figures like George Washington, the United States only maintained intelligence during times of armed conflict. Both the United Kingdom and France emphasized the importance of intelligence but for some reason the United States never saw the need.

Keeping this in mind, I have two questions. First, how early can permanent foreign and domestic intelligence agencies be established in the United States? Second, what would these organizations look like?
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