John McCone was an American businessman and government official, best known for serving as the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) from 1961 to 1965. He played a significant role during the Cold War, overseeing intelligence operations and contributing to national security policies. Before his tenure at the CIA, McCone was involved in various industries, including aerospace and nuclear energy. He also served on the Atomic Energy Commission, where he focused on the development of nuclear power. His diverse background in both business and government made him a prominent figure in American intelligence history.