The KGB, or Committee for State Security, was the main security agency for the Soviet Union from 1954 until its dissolution in 1991. It was responsible for intelligence gathering, internal security, and secret police functions, playing a crucial role during the Cold War. The KGB was known for its extensive surveillance and espionage activities, both domestically and internationally. The agency operated under a veil of secrecy, often employing tactics that instilled fear among the populace. Its legacy continues to influence modern intelligence practices, and many former KGB officers have transitioned into significant political roles in post-Soviet states, shaping the region's political landscape.