About - United States Department of State
www.state.gov › aboutOur History. The U.S. Department of State has grown significantly over the years. The first Secretary of State, Thomas Jefferson, oversaw a small staff of one chief clerk, three other clerks, a translator, and a messenger. They maintained only two diplomatic posts, in London and Paris, as well as 10 consular posts.
Policy Issues - United States Department of State
www.state.gov › policy-issuesThe United States is committed to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls through U.S. foreign policy. We have identified four key priorities to advance gender equality and the status of women and girls around the world: women, peace, and security; women’s economic empowerment; gender-based violence; and adolescent girls.