Edward Snowden is a former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor who gained international attention in 2013 when he leaked classified information about the agency's surveillance programs. His disclosures revealed the extent of government monitoring of private communications, sparking a global debate about privacy, security, and civil liberties. After leaking the documents, Snowden sought asylum in various countries and eventually settled in Russia. His actions have made him a controversial figure, with some viewing him as a whistleblower and others as a traitor. The impact of his revelations continues to influence discussions on government surveillance and data privacy.