About the National Archives

What is the National Archives and Records Administration?

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nation's record keeper. Of all documents and materials created in the course of business conducted by the United States Federal government, only 1%-3% are so important for legal or historical reasons that they are kept by us forever.

Those valuable records are preserved and are available to you, whether you want to see if they contain clues about your family’s history, need to prove a veteran’s military service, or are researching an historical topic that interests you. Learn more

Prologue: NARA's Quarterly Magazine

Current Issue:

Cover of current issuePrologue magazine brings readers stories based on the rich holdings and programs of the National Archives across the nation—from Washington, DC, to the regional archives and the Presidential libraries. Access our articles online, in print, or download high-quality issues for your e-reader or iPhone on our Scribd and Zinio sites.

Order Prologue now!

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