This new electronic briefing book from the National Security Archive (last reviewed in the November 12, 1999 Scout Report) offers a peek inside the creation, evolution, and management of the National Security Agency (NSA). Originally founded as the Armed Forces Security Agency (AFSA) in 1948, the name and function of the agency was changed in 1952, when its role was expanded beyond merely coordinating the activities of the military service signals intelligence units. Dating from 1948 to 1998, the fifteen original documents in this briefing book include the memo from President Truman, which in part established the NSA, key Department of Defense directives, examples of NSA intelligence work and reporting, a top secret NSA position paper regarding American intelligence service involvement in the deaths of Michael DeVine and Efrain Bamaca Velasquez, and a recent organization chart. While scholars and students will benefit most from this latest release, it should appeal to anyone with an interest in the shadowy world of intelligence operations.