The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was signed into law by U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson, signifying a major advancement in promoting transparency within the federal government. The act aimed to empower citizens by giving them the right to access government records, thereby enhancing accountability. Johnson, who was in office during an era of significant social change and questioning of government authority, recognized the importance of public access to information as a fundamental component of democracy.

The FOIA was designed to counter the secretive nature of governmental operations that had been a concern for many Americans. By allowing citizens a legal path to request federal agency records, it sought to dismantle the barriers that often kept information away from public scrutiny. This act encouraged greater openness and informed peak public interest in governmental affairs.

After its passage, the act went into effect the following year, providing citizens with the ability to file requests for a variety of documents, including reports, memos, and other materials. The legislation gained traction, fostering a culture of transparency that would contribute significantly to various subsequent reforms aimed at increasing accountability in government actions.