The U.S. Justice Department, officially known as the Department of Justice (DOJ), is a federal executive department responsible for enforcing the law and administering justice in the United States. It was established in 1870 and is headed by the Attorney General, who is the chief law enforcement officer of the country. The DOJ oversees various agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The primary functions of the DOJ include investigating and prosecuting federal crimes, representing the U.S. government in legal matters, and ensuring fair and impartial administration of justice. The department also works to protect civil rights and uphold the rule of law across the nation.