Department+of+State

= Department of State  =

Goals:
The mission statement for the Department of State is, "Shape and sustain a peaceful, prosperous, just, and democratic world and foster conditions for stability and progress for the benefit of the American people and people everywhere." The main purpose for the State department is to handle international affairs, and the Secretary of the State Department is seen as the "public" representation of the United States. This shouldn't be confused with the President's role as the "Chief Diplomat", the State department merely aids the President in his decision making. He still maintains the role of "Chief Diplomat". Key jobs are: protecting and aiding U.S. citizens abroad, helping U.S. business in the global economy, providing support for other U.S. agencies on all other levels of government, and informing the public of international affairs.

History:
The State department was the first Executive department established, founded in 1789. Prior to being called the Department of State, it was called the Department Foreign Affairs. Thomas Jefferson was the first Secretary of State, however before him John Jay was the first Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

At Work:
Hillary Clinton with Bangladesh Foreign Minister