The World Factbook

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The cover of the 2016-17 The World Factbook

The World Factbook, also known as the CIA World Factbook,[1] was a book that contained the Central Intelligence Agency's information about the world's countries. A new book was published every year. The Factbook provided a two- to three-page summary of the demographics, geography, communications, government, economy, and military of 272 countries, dependencies, and other areas in the world. Originally a print document, it went online in 1997. On 5 February 2026, the site closed down without prior notice. The CIA noted the closing on its Internet page. [2]

The World Factbook was designed to be used by people that work for the United States government,[3] but it was also used by students, on websites, and in other publications that are not made by governments.[1] Because the U.S. Government made it, it was in the public domain.[4]

The World Factbook Media

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Central Intelligence Agency. Press Release: CIA World Factbook 2006 Now Available (April 5, 2006). Retrieved December 8, 2006.
  2. ↑ Kirk, Rylee. C.I.A. World Factbook Abruptly Ends Publication Afteer Six Decades. New York Times (February 7, 2026). p. A10.
  3. ↑ The World Factbook staff. The World Factbook - Contributors and Copyright Information. Retrieved December 8, 2006.
  4. ↑ The World Factbook staff. The World Factbook - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Can I use some or all of The World Factbook for my Web site (book, research project, homework, etc.)? (August 23, 2006). Retrieved December 8, 2006.

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