The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has one of the richest and most diverse histories in the federal government. Although only in existence since 1977, the Department traces its lineage to the Manhattan Project effort to develop the atomic bomb during World War II and to the various energy-related programs that previously had been dispersed throughout various federal agencies.

For questions about the history of DOE and its predecessor agencies please contact history@hq.doe.gov.

DOE History

A Brief History of the Department of Energy
A short summary of the two major programmatic traditions that coalesced with the formation of DOE, at a particularly momentous time in U.S. history.
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Historical Resources
Find information on historical publications, museums and exhibits, DOE labs and field sites, and researching DOE records.
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Secretaries of Energy
Find information about all of the former DOE secretaries.
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DOE History Timeline
Provides a chronology of DOE history and its predecessor agencies and includes links to reports, speeches, press releases, and other documentation.
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Manhattan Project Historical Resources
Find links to DOE histories of the Manhattan Project, site histories, Manhattan Project records, and exhibits.
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Manhattan Project National Historical Park History
Learn more about the background of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, the authorizing legislation, and park implementation news.
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Additional Resources