The CIA World Factbook is a reference manual that contains detailed and reliable statistical information about foreign countries, including their societies, economies, militaries, and resources. First published as a classified document in 1962, it was declassified in 1971. It was frequently used by government officials and private and public researchers who sought important information from a trustworthy source. After its online publication in 1997, it also became an important reference source for journalists. The CIA ceased publication of the World Factbook on February 4, 2026.
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