"Short Bursts" Of FBI History

According to a 1938 FBI document examined, at the time J. Edgar Hoover was designated Acting Director of the Bureau in May 1924, there were 441 Special Agents nationwide including Inspectors, Assistant Directors and the Director. There were 195 stenos and clerical employees along with 21 informants on the roles throughout HQ and the field.  

In February 1925, fifty percent of agents have legal training and “the investigation of mental, moral and physical qualifications of applicants is instituted.” 

In July 1925, regular inspections of field offices began and 5 offices were discontinued. All offices were reorganized and the “policy of promotion in the Bureau was begun with emphasis solely upon efficiency."