M. K. Ultra was a covert program initiated by the CIA in the 1950s, aimed at exploring mind control and interrogation techniques. The project involved experiments with various substances, including LSD, and psychological methods to manipulate individuals' mental states. The program operated without public knowledge and often involved unwitting subjects, raising significant ethical concerns. It was officially halted in the 1970s after investigations revealed its controversial practices, leading to increased scrutiny of government operations and the importance of informed consent in research.