History of Edward Snowden in Timeline
Edward Snowden, a former U.S. computer contractor who is now a dual citizen of the U.S. and Russia, leaked classified information from the NSA in 2013 while working as a contractor and employee. Facing espionage charges, Snowden revealed extensive global surveillance operations, many involving the NSA and Five Eyes intelligence alliance, often collaborating with telecom companies and European governments. His revelations sparked debates about the balance between national security and individual privacy.
1917: Snowden Highlights Lack of Whistleblower Protection
Snowden highlighted the inadequacy of whistleblower protection, citing the Espionage Act of 1917 used to prosecute leakers. He believed that internal reporting wouldn't have brought the issue to light.
1917: Espionage Act of 1917
The Espionage Act of 1917 is a United States federal law that prohibits the disclosure of information related to national security with the intent to harm the United States or aid a foreign government.
1963: Kim Philby Defects to the Soviet Union
Kim Philby, a high-ranking British intelligence officer exposed as a double agent for the Soviet Union, defected in 1963, shocking the intelligence community and marking one of the most infamous espionage cases of the 20th century.
1968: Philby Publishes Autobiography Denying Espionage
In 1968, Kim Philby published his autobiography, "My Silent War," in which he maintained his innocence and denied any involvement in espionage, despite his confirmed defection to the Soviet Union.
December 1975: Assassination of Richard Welch
Richard Welch, a CIA station chief in Athens, was assassinated in December 1975 after his identity was exposed in Philip Agee's book, "Inside the Company: CIA Diary," which revealed classified information about CIA activities.
June 21, 1983: Edward Snowden's Birth
On June 21, 1983, Edward Joseph Snowden was born in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, into a family with a strong tradition of government service.
1989: Whistleblower Protection Act Enacted
The Whistleblower Protection Act, which aimed to safeguard federal employees who disclose government wrongdoing, was passed in 1989. This act has been central to debates surrounding Snowden's actions and his potential classification as a whistleblower.
2001: Snowden's Parents Divorce
Edward Snowden's parents divorced in 2001, and his father later remarried.
2001: Snowden Begins Participating in Ars Technica Forum
In 2001, Edward Snowden, using the pseudonym "TheTrueHOOHA," became an active member of the Ars Technica online forum, engaging in discussions on various subjects. This online activity offered a glimpse into his interests and perspectives over an extended period.
May 7, 2004: Snowden Enlists in the U.S. Army
Driven by a sense of duty, Edward Snowden enlisted in the United States Army on May 7, 2004, aiming to become a Special Forces candidate.
September 28, 2004: Snowden Receives Administrative Discharge from the Army
On September 28, 2004, Edward Snowden was given an administrative discharge from the U.S. Army due to shin splints, preventing him from completing Special Forces training.
2005: Snowden Works as a Security Guard
In 2005, Snowden worked for less than a year as a security guard at the University of Maryland's Center for Advanced Study of Language, a research facility sponsored by the NSA.
May 2006: Snowden Highlights Technical Skills
In May 2006, Snowden wrote in Ars Technica about his ease in finding employment due to his strong computer skills, referring to himself as a "computer wizard."
2006: Snowden Joins the CIA
Following a job fair focused on intelligence agencies, Edward Snowden accepted a position at the CIA in 2006, beginning his career in intelligence.
March 2007: Snowden's CIA Posting in Geneva
Edward Snowden's journey towards leaking classified information began in March 2007 when he was stationed as a technician at the CIA station in Geneva.
March 2007: Snowden Stationed in Geneva by CIA
In March 2007, the CIA stationed Snowden in Geneva, Switzerland, under diplomatic cover, where he was responsible for maintaining computer network security at the U.S. Permanent Mission to the United Nations.
2008: Snowden Supports President at NATO Summit
In 2008, Snowden's technical and cybersecurity expertise led to his selection by the CIA to provide support to the U.S. president during the NATO summit in Romania.
2008: Snowden Votes for Third-Party Candidate
In the 2008 U.S. presidential election, Snowden voted for a third-party candidate. He stated that he had believed in Obama's promises but became disillusioned, perceiving a continuation of Bush-era policies. This decision reflected his evolving political views and growing dissatisfaction with the two-party system.
2008: Snowden Alleges GCSB Surveillance in New Zealand
Snowden accused the New Zealand Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) of conducting surveillance on its citizens between 2008 and 2016, during John Key's tenure as Prime Minister.
2008: Snowden First Contemplates Leaking Documents
Snowden first considered leaking classified information in 2008 but ultimately decided against it, hoping that the newly elected Barack Obama administration might implement reforms.
January 2009: Snowden's Past Comments on Security Leaks and Gun Control Resurface
In January 2009, a forum post written by Snowden, under the pseudonym "TheTrueHOOHA," expressed strong support for the U.S. security state and advocated for harsh punishments for leakers of classified information. Contrasting with his future actions, this statement illustrated the complexities and evolution of his beliefs.
February 2009: Resignation from the CIA
In February 2009, after six counseling sessions for underperformance, Edward Snowden resigned from his position at the CIA.
2009: Begins Work as a Contractor for Dell
In 2009, Snowden started working as a contractor for Dell at an NSA facility near Tokyo. In this role, he educated officials on cybersecurity and began investigating mass surveillance, which later inspired him to expose similar practices in the US.
2010: Cybersecurity Training in India
In 2010, Snowden briefly resided in New Delhi, India, where he focused on enhancing his skills in Java programming and ethical hacking at a local IT institute.
2011: Consults for CIA on Technical Challenges
During his time at Dell in 2011, Snowden's expertise led him to consult for the CIA, providing solutions to their complex technical problems and working closely with high-ranking officials.
2011: Registers for Master's Degree Program
In 2011, Snowden enrolled in an online master's degree program in computer security at the University of Liverpool but did not complete the program, remaining inactive as a student.
2011: Returns to Maryland for Dell's CIA Account
In 2011, Snowden returned to Maryland to work on Dell's CIA account, serving as a system administrator and pre-sales technical engineer. During this period, he provided technical advice to high-ranking CIA officials.
March 2012: Relocates to Hawaii for NSA Information-Sharing Office
In March 2012, Dell reassigned Snowden to Hawaii, where he assumed the role of lead technologist for the NSA's information-sharing office, a position that granted him further access to sensitive data.
April 2012: Begins Downloading Classified Documents
While working for Dell in April 2012, Snowden started downloading classified documents about the US government's electronic surveillance programs, marking a turning point in his journey towards whistleblowing.
May 2012: Snowden's Online Activity on Ars Technica Forum Exposed
Snowden's active participation in Ars Technica's online forum, under the pseudonym "TheTrueHOOHA," from 2001 to May 2012, was uncovered a week after his leaks began. His online discussions covered various topics, revealing his thoughts and opinions on technology, politics, and society.
2012: Snowden Begins Downloading Classified Documents
Snowden reportedly began downloading classified NSA documents in the summer of 2012.
2012: NSA's SIGINT Strategy (2012-2016)
The NSA's "SIGINT Strategy 2012-2016" outlined the agency's plans for expanding its surveillance activities with the goal of achieving dominance in global network surveillance.
January 2013: Contacting Laura Poitras
In January 2013, Snowden initiated contact with documentary filmmaker Laura Poitras, after being impressed by her work on NSA whistleblower William Binney.
March 12, 2013: Snowden's "Breaking Point" - Clapper's Testimony
Snowden revealed that his "breaking point" was witnessing Director of National Intelligence James Clapper's denial of NSA's data collection on Americans during a March 12, 2013, Senate hearing, which he perceived as a lie.
March 15, 2013: Resigns from Dell
On March 15, 2013, Snowden resigned from his position at Dell, citing his disillusionment with the government's surveillance practices, particularly after James Clapper's testimony to Congress, as his "breaking point."
April 2013: Snowden Emails About Legal Authorities
In April 2013, Edward Snowden sent an email inquiring about legal authorities, which was later released by U.S. officials in May 2014 as evidence against his claims of reporting concerns.
April 2013: Collaboration with Greenwald Begins
Snowden began working with journalist Glenn Greenwald in April 2013 after being introduced through Laura Poitras, marking a significant step in his plan to expose NSA surveillance programs.
May 2013: Leaves the United States
In May 2013, Snowden left the United States, marking a significant turning point in his life as he sought refuge from potential legal repercussions for his whistleblowing activities.
May 2013: Snowden Flees to Hong Kong
Snowden resigned from his job in May 2013, using a pretense of epilepsy treatment, and fled to Hong Kong on May 10, 2013, seeking refuge due to the city's stance on free speech and political dissent.
May 2013: Medical Leave and Interview
Using his epilepsy as a reason for medical leave from the NSA in May 2013, Snowden participated in an electronic interview with Laura Poitras and Jacob Appelbaum, later published by Der Spiegel.
May 16, 2013: Contact with Barton Gellman
Snowden's communication with journalists expanded on May 16, 2013, when he contacted Barton Gellman of The Washington Post, offering to share classified documents about the PRISM surveillance program.
May 20, 2013: Snowden Leaves for Hong Kong
On May 20, 2013, after taking medical leave from his NSA job in Hawaii, Snowden flew to Hong Kong. In early June, he disclosed classified NSA documents to journalists, leading to publications in The Guardian, The Washington Post, and other outlets.
June 5, 2013: PRISM and Other Surveillance Programs Exposed
On June 5, 2013, the first reports based on Snowden's leaks were published, revealing the existence of PRISM, a program allowing the NSA to access data from major tech companies, and other surveillance initiatives.
June 6, 2013: Legal Challenge to NSA Surveillance Following Snowden Leaks
In the wake of Edward Snowden's revelations, legal challenges to the NSA's surveillance programs emerged. On June 6, 2013, Larry Klayman filed a lawsuit alleging unlawful data collection, highlighting the growing concerns about privacy violations triggered by Snowden's actions.
June 9, 2013: Snowden Publicly Identifies Himself as the NSA Leaker
On June 9, 2013, Edward Snowden chose to publicly reveal his identity as the source of the NSA leaks through The Guardian. He expressed his desire for a world free from mass surveillance and his belief in the public's right to know about government actions.
June 10, 2013: Booz Allen Hamilton Terminates Employment
Snowden's employment with Booz Allen Hamilton was terminated on June 10, 2013, immediately following his public disclosure of classified information about the NSA's surveillance programs.
June 14, 2013: U.S. Files Criminal Charges Against Snowden
On June 14, 2013, U.S. federal prosecutors filed a criminal complaint against Edward Snowden, charging him with three felonies: theft of government property, unauthorized communication of national defense information, and willful communication of classified information.
June 2013: Snowden's Vow to Expose Surveillance
In June 2013, Snowden vowed to continue leaking classified documents, claiming that the truth about government surveillance would inevitably be revealed.
June 2013: Bernie Sanders Acknowledges Snowden's Role in Sparking Debate
In June 2013, Senator Bernie Sanders recognized the significance of Edward Snowden's leaks in igniting a crucial national debate about surveillance and privacy. Sanders emphasized the importance of addressing the issues raised by Snowden's actions rather than focusing solely on Snowden himself.
June 2013: Snowden's Support for Internet Freedom Organizations Revealed
In June 2013, interviews with Snowden revealed his support for internet freedom organizations through stickers displayed on his laptop, showcasing affiliations with groups like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and the Tor Project. These visual cues provided insights into his beliefs and values.
June 21, 2013: U.S. Charges Snowden Under Espionage Act
The United States Department of Justice unsealed charges against Snowden on June 21, 2013, for violating the Espionage Act of 1917 and theft of government property, leading to the revocation of his passport.
July 1, 2013: Bolivian President Offers Asylum, Plane Rerouted
On July 1, 2013, Bolivian President Evo Morales suggested he'd consider Snowden's asylum request. However, Morales' plane was rerouted to Austria after being denied airspace by several European countries due to suspicions that Snowden was on board.
July 2013: Obama Defends Intelligence Gathering
Amidst outrage from European leaders over Snowden's revelations, President Obama defended the U.S. government's intelligence-gathering practices in early July 2013. He argued that all nations engage in intelligence collection, pushing back against criticism sparked by Snowden's disclosures.
July 2013: Snowden Explains His Decision to Seek Asylum in Russia
In July 2013, Snowden explained that he chose to seek asylum in Russia due to the lack of safe passage to Latin America. He cited the US forcing down Bolivian President Evo Morales' plane as an example of the risks involved.
July 2013: Snowden Seeks Asylum and Denials from Various Countries
In July 2013, Snowden's lawyer, Anatoly Kucherena, refuted claims that Snowden had met Russian diplomats in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Snowden sought asylum in Russia, claiming it was unsafe to travel to Latin America due to US pressure. He was also denied asylum by several countries including France, Poland, and Brazil.
July 2013: The "Snowden Effect"
In July 2013, media critic Jay Rosen coined the term "Snowden effect" to describe the increased public awareness and discourse surrounding government surveillance resulting from Snowden's leaks.
July 2013: US Pressures Russia for Snowden's Extradition
In early July 2013, amidst reports that Obama's meeting with Putin might be affected by Snowden's presence in Russia, US officials urged Moscow to extradite Snowden to face charges. Snowden's lawyer countered that he needed asylum to avoid persecution and potential torture in the US.
July 23, 2013: U.S. Rejects Snowden's Refugee Claim
On July 23, 2013, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder formally rejected Edward Snowden's claim for refugee status and offered a limited-validity passport for his direct return to the U.S. Holder assured Snowden would not face torture or the death penalty and would receive a fair trial. Russia, however, maintained its stance and refused to extradite Snowden.
August 2013: Obama Initiates Review of Surveillance Activities
Following Edward Snowden's leaks, President Obama announced a review of U.S. surveillance activities in August 2013. The task force's subsequent recommendations, aimed at increasing oversight of the NSA, underscored the impact of Snowden's actions in prompting government reassessments of surveillance practices.
August 2013: Obama's Response to Snowden Leaks
In August 2013, President Obama addressed Edward Snowden's leaks, rejecting the notion of Snowden as a patriot and emphasizing the damage caused by his actions. Obama's response reflected the complex balance between national security concerns and individual privacy rights highlighted by Snowden's revelations.
September 2013: Putin Confirms Snowden's Meeting with Russian Diplomats
In September 2013, Russian President Vladimir Putin contradicted earlier claims by stating that Snowden had indeed met with Russian diplomats in Hong Kong before his departure.
October 2013: Promise of More Revelations to Come
In October 2013, Glenn Greenwald hinted at more significant revelations to come from Snowden's leaked documents, indicating that only a small portion had been made public.
October 31, 2013: Snowden Meets German Officials and Offers Testimony
On October 31, 2013, Snowden met with German officials to discuss the possibility of testifying about the NSA's surveillance activities. He provided a letter to the German government and parliament detailing his knowledge. However, Germany later blocked his in-person testimony, citing potential damage to US-German relations.
December 2013: Snowden Sparks National Debate on Security vs. Privacy
By December 2013, Snowden's revelations had ignited a much-needed national conversation in the United States about the balance between national security measures and individual privacy rights.
December 2013: Conflicting Court Rulings on NSA Surveillance
December 2013 saw conflicting legal interpretations of the NSA's surveillance practices. While Judge Richard J. Leon deemed the bulk telephone metadata program likely unconstitutional, Judge William H. Pauley III ruled in a separate case that the NSA's data collection was permissible, highlighting the legal complexities surrounding surveillance and privacy.
December 2013: Snowden Responds to Ruling on NSA's Metadata Collection
Following a federal judge's ruling that the NSA's metadata collection was likely unconstitutional, Snowden expressed vindication, stating that his actions were driven by the belief that the program wouldn't hold up to scrutiny.
December 2013: Snowden's Perspective on the Impact of His Leaks
In December 2013, Edward Snowden expressed his belief that his leaks had sparked a global dialogue about surveillance practices and that the NSA's approach to global espionage was weakening. Snowden's statement reflected his confidence in the impact of his actions on privacy discourse.
December 2013: Snowden Receives Bitcoin Donations, Secures Livelihood
In December 2013, Snowden revealed that supporters from Silicon Valley had donated enough Bitcoin, valued at around $1,000 per Bitcoin at the time, to sustain his living expenses. This financial support helped secure his livelihood while in exile.
December 2013: UN Resolution on Digital Surveillance
In December 2013, influenced by Snowden's leaks, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution condemning mass surveillance and affirming the right to online privacy.
December 2013: Surveillance of Online Games and Personal Relationships
Leaked documents in December 2013 revealed that the NSA, CIA, and GCHQ were spying on users of online games like Second Life and World of Warcraft, and even tracking the online activity of their own employees' love interests.
December 18, 2013: Call for Snowden's Amnesty
On December 18, 2013, former NSA whistleblower J. Kirk Wiebe publicly called for Edward Snowden to be granted amnesty and allowed to return to the United States. Wiebe's stance, influenced by Judge Richard J. Leon's ruling on the NSA's warrantless surveillance program, contributed to the ongoing debate about Snowden's actions and potential consequences.
2013: Limited Policy Change Following Snowden Leaks
Despite the intense public discourse surrounding Edward Snowden's leaks in 2013, The Washington Post reported that no substantial policy changes had been implemented by the year's end. The observation highlighted the challenges in translating heightened awareness about surveillance into concrete legislative action.
2013: Glenn Greenwald Interviewed by Associated Press
Glenn Greenwald, a journalist who played a key role in publishing Snowden's leaks, gave an interview to the Associated Press in 2013. The details of this interview are not provided in this context.
2013: Donald Trump's Initial Reaction to Snowden's Leaks
In 2013, Donald Trump publicly condemned Edward Snowden on Twitter, labeling him a "traitor" for leaking classified information to China and Russia. Trump advocated for Snowden's execution, reflecting his strong stance against Snowden's actions.
2013: Edward Snowden Leaks Classified Information
In 2013, Edward Snowden, a former U.S. computer contractor, leaked highly classified information from the National Security Agency (NSA). His disclosures revealed global surveillance programs, sparking debates about national security and individual privacy.
2013: Snowden's Initial Asylum Request in France
In 2013, Snowden made his first attempt to seek asylum in France under then-President François Hollande. This request, however, was unsuccessful.
2013: Dispute Over CIA Allegations
In 2013, Snowden's allegations about the CIA's conduct in Geneva, specifically regarding the alleged manipulation of a Swiss banker, were publicly disputed by Swiss officials, including Ueli Maurer, the President of the Swiss Confederation.
2013: Exposure of NSA's Black Budget
In 2013, Snowden's leaks led to the exposure of the NSA's black budget, revealing the agency's funding and its collaboration with private tech companies for surveillance purposes.
2013: Discrepancies in Snowden's Résumé Surface
In 2013, inconsistencies in Snowden's résumé regarding his educational background, particularly his claims of attending Johns Hopkins University and pursuing a master's degree at the University of Liverpool, came to light, raising questions about his credibility.
2013: Snowden Begins Earning from Speaking and Books
Snowden started earning income from speaking engagements and book advances in 2013, accumulating over $1.2 million by August 2020.
2013: The Guardian Person of the Year
Snowden was recognized for his revelations about global surveillance and was named The Guardian's Person of the Year in 2013, receiving four times more votes than any other candidate.
2013: Public and Political Reactions to Snowden's Leaks
The public and political landscape in 2013 was significantly impacted by Edward Snowden's leaks. While figures like Donald Trump condemned Snowden's actions, others, including Forbes magazine, noted the contrast between Trump's 2013 stance and his later consideration of a pardon.
2013: Global Media Coverage of Snowden Leaks
Throughout 2013, media outlets worldwide, including The Guardian, Der Spiegel, The Washington Post, and The New York Times, published articles based on Snowden's leaked documents, sparking widespread debate about government surveillance.
January 2014: Snowden Reiterates Giving Information to American Journalists
During a January 2014 German TV interview, Snowden reiterated his previous statement, emphasizing that he had provided all his information to American journalists focusing on US issues.
January 2014: Snowden Accuses NSA of Industrial Espionage
In January 2014, Edward Snowden alleged that the NSA's data collection extended beyond national security, accusing them of industrial espionage, citing Siemens as an example. However, German authorities found no concrete evidence to support these claims.
January 2014: Snowden Explains Refusal to Return to U.S.
In January 2014, Snowden explained his reasons for rejecting Obama's suggestion to return to the U.S. to face charges. He believed he would not receive a fair trial and expressed concerns about the potential consequences of returning.
January 2014: Snowden Elaborates on Attempts to Report Concerns
In January 2014, Snowden publicly stated that he had informed multiple colleagues and two supervisors about his concerns regarding NSA surveillance programs, but his claims were disputed by the NSA.
January 2014: Denies Stealing Passwords
In January 2014, Snowden refuted claims that he had stolen passwords or deceived colleagues to gain access to the NSA's computer systems, maintaining that he acted ethically in his pursuit of exposing government surveillance.
January 2014: Snowden's Whereabouts and Claims of Giving Documents to Journalists
In January 2014, Snowden's lawyer, Ben Wizner, denied reports that Snowden had stayed at the Russian consulate in Hong Kong. Snowden himself claimed he gave all classified documents to journalists in Hong Kong and kept no copies.
January 2014: Snowden Explains His Decision to Stay in Russia
In a January 2014 interview, Snowden explained that he intended to transit through Russia but was prevented from leaving due to his passport being revoked. He believed the US wanted him to remain in Russia to portray him as a Russian spy.
January 2014: Snowden Explains Decision to Leak
Snowden explained in January 2014 that witnessing James Clapper's perceived lie to Congress about NSA surveillance was a turning point, reinforcing his belief that the public deserved to know the truth.
February 2014: Snowden Testifies to the European Union
During his testimony to the European Union in February 2014, Snowden hinted at the existence of more undisclosed surveillance programs, leaving the decision of their public release to journalists in collaboration with government stakeholders.
February 2014: Journalists Awarded for NSA Reporting
In February 2014, Glenn Greenwald, Laura Poitras, Barton Gellman, and Ewen MacAskill received the George Polk Award for their reporting on the NSA leaks, which they dedicated to Snowden.
March 2014: Revelations about NSA's Malware Program
Documents released in March 2014 by Glenn Greenwald revealed the NSA's plans, in conjunction with GCHQ, to infect millions of computers with malware using a program called TURBINE. Further revelations exposed QUANTUMHAND, a program used to intercept connections through a fake Facebook server.
March 2014: Snowden Testifies to European Parliament
During his testimony to the European Parliament in March 2014, Snowden revealed that he had reported "clearly problematic programs" to ten officials before leaking classified information, but no action was taken.
March 2014: General Dempsey Addresses House Armed Services Committee
In March 2014, General Martin Dempsey informed the House Armed Services Committee that the majority of documents leaked by Snowden pertained to military capabilities and tactics rather than domestic surveillance.
March 2014: Snowden's Attempts to Report Concerns Internally
In March 2014, Snowden stated that he had reported concerns about spying programs to over ten officials. However, his contractor status limited his options for further whistleblowing.
March 2014: Snowden Speaks at SXSW
Snowden addressed the South by Southwest (SXSW) conference in March 2014, warning about the NSA's actions threatening the future of the internet. He engaged with the audience, answering questions about government surveillance versus corporate data collection.
May 2014: Former NSA Director Estimates Documents Downloaded by Snowden
During a May 2014 interview, retired NSA director Keith Alexander stated that quantifying the exact number of documents taken by Snowden was impossible, but the estimate potentially exceeded a million.
May 2014: "Collect it All" - NSA's Surveillance Objectives Exposed
Greenwald's book "No Place to Hide," published in May 2014, revealed the NSA's objectives to "Collect it All," "Process it All," and "Exploit it All," highlighting the agency's vast data collection goals.
May 2014: Snowden Alleges NSA Told Him to Stay Silent
In May 2014, Snowden told NBC News that after raising concerns about the legality of NSA spying programs, he was instructed by the NSA to remain silent on the matter. He claimed to have copies of emails sent to the Office of General Counsel and other personnel, outlining his concerns.
May 2014: U.S. Officials Release Snowden Email
In May 2014, U.S. officials countered Snowden's claims by releasing a single email from April 2013, in which he inquired about legal authorities. They asserted that no other evidence supported Snowden's claims of raising concerns with oversight personnel.
May 2014: Challenges "Low-Level Analyst" Label
In a May 2014 interview, Snowden disputed the US government's portrayal of him as a "low-level analyst," asserting that he held a more senior role and possessed deep knowledge of the NSA's operations.
June 2014: NSA Director Downplays Impact of Snowden's Disclosures
In June 2014, Admiral Michael S. Rogers, the newly appointed NSA director, acknowledged that some terrorist groups had modified their communications due to Snowden's leaks. However, he maintained that the damage wasn't substantial enough to warrant major alarm.
June 2014: Snowden Discusses Security Clearance
In June 2014, Snowden disclosed that his security guard job required a high-level security clearance, for which he underwent a polygraph and a thorough background check.
June 2014: NSA Finds No Records of Snowden's Internal Complaints
In June 2014, the NSA stated that it couldn't locate any records of Snowden raising internal complaints regarding the agency's operations. Snowden, however, claimed to be cooperating with the NSA to provide evidence of his communications.
July 2014: Washington Post Reports on Snowden's Domestic NSA Cache
In July 2014, The Washington Post published details of a cache provided by Snowden, containing a vast amount of data from domestic NSA operations, including emails, instant messages, and documents from online accounts.
July 2014: Report Reveals Surveillance of Ordinary Americans
In July 2014, The Washington Post, citing Snowden's leaks, reported that 90% of those under NSA surveillance were ordinary Americans, not the intended targets. This claim was supported by documents including emails, messages, and online accounts.
July 2014: UN Calls for Dropping Charges Against Snowden
In July 2014, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, urged the U.S. to drop charges against Snowden, arguing that his leaks served the public interest.
August 2014: House Intelligence Committee Initiates Snowden Investigation
In August 2014, the U.S. House Intelligence Committee launched an investigation into Snowden's actions, which culminated in a report published in September 2016.
August 2014: Snowden Discloses "MonsterMind" Cyberwarfare Program
Snowden revealed the existence of "MonsterMind," a cyberwarfare program designed to automatically detect and retaliate against foreign cyberattacks. He expressed concerns about the program's potential for misidentification and unintended consequences.
September 15, 2014: Snowden's Appearance at Kim Dotcom's Town Hall
Snowden participated in Kim Dotcom's "Moment of Truth" town hall meeting in Auckland on September 15, 2014, via video link. He appeared alongside Julian Assange.
November 2014: Germany Confirms Snowden Not Considered for Asylum
In November 2014, Germany announced that Snowden had not renewed his asylum request and was not being considered. It was later reported that the US had threatened to withhold intelligence sharing if Germany granted Snowden asylum.
2014: Surveillance of 122 High-Ranking Leaders Revealed
In 2014, Der Spiegel published documents leaked by Snowden, indicating that the NSA had targeted 122 high-ranking leaders for surveillance.
2014: Obama Addresses Snowden Leaks
In 2014, President Obama addressed the Snowden leaks, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding national secrets and criticizing the sensationalized reporting surrounding the disclosures. He argued that Snowden's actions had harmed national security and revealed sensitive information to adversaries.
2014: Snowden Expresses Support for Universal Basic Income
In 2014, Snowden publicly supported the concept of a universal basic income, a policy proposal gaining traction. This stance reflected his views on social and economic issues, potentially shaped by his experiences and observations.
2014: Snowden's Disclosures Impact Global Perception of the US
In 2014, the Pew Research Center's Global Attitudes Survey revealed that Snowden's disclosures had negatively impacted the international image of the United States, particularly among European and Latin American nations.
February 2, 2015: Keynote Speaker at World Affairs Conference
On February 2, 2015, Snowden delivered a keynote address, alongside Glenn Greenwald, at the World Affairs Conference in Toronto. This appearance, like his previous one, was made possible through a remote video link.
February 2015: NSA Director Admits to Impact on Terrorist Activity Detection
Contrasting his previous stance, in February 2015, Admiral Rogers admitted that Snowden's disclosures had a significant impact on the NSA's ability to detect and evaluate terrorist activities globally.
March 2015: Snowden Seeks Asylum in Switzerland
During the FIFDH international human rights film festival in March 2015, Snowden made a public plea to Switzerland for asylum, expressing a desire to return to Geneva, where he had previously worked undercover for the CIA.
April 2015: Henry Jackson Society Report on Snowden's Impact on UK Security
A report released in April 2015 by the Henry Jackson Society, a British think tank, asserted that Snowden's intelligence leaks had a negative impact on the UK's capabilities in combating terrorism and organized crime. The report's findings were met with criticism from privacy advocates.
April 2015: Bolivia Accuses Assange of Endangering Morales
In April 2015, Bolivia's ambassador to Russia accused Julian Assange of jeopardizing President Morales's safety by spreading rumors that Snowden was on his plane, leading to its grounding.
April 2015: Interviewed by John Oliver
John Oliver, the host of "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver," traveled to Moscow in April 2015 to interview Edward Snowden.
May 7, 2015: Appeals Court Rules Against NSA Bulk Data Collection
On May 7, 2015, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit issued a significant ruling, determining that Section 215 of the Patriot Act did not authorize the NSA's bulk collection of Americans' phone records. The decision, a consequence of Edward Snowden's 2013 leaks, represented a legal setback for the NSA's surveillance program.
June 2, 2015: USA Freedom Act
On June 2, 2015, the U.S. Senate passed the USA Freedom Act, which was then signed by President Obama. This act reinstated several provisions of the Patriot Act with modifications and introduced limitations on the bulk collection of U.S. citizens' telecommunication data by American intelligence agencies. These restrictions were widely perceived as a direct consequence of Snowden's revelations.
June 14, 2015: Sunday Times Reports on Decryption of Snowden Files by Russia and China
On June 14, 2015, The Sunday Times reported that Russian and Chinese intelligence services had successfully decrypted a substantial portion of Snowden's leaked files, causing significant intelligence setbacks for the UK and its allies.
June 2015: DIA Report Reveals Snowden Took 900,000 Defense Files
A declassified DIA report in June 2015 disclosed that Snowden had taken 900,000 Department of Defense files, exceeding the number of documents downloaded from the NSA.
September 2015: Start of Snowden's Virtual Speaking Engagements
Snowden began delivering paid virtual speaking engagements in September 2015, a practice that continued through May 2020, generating over $1.2 million in earnings.
October 2015: UN Report on Snowden's Impact
In October 2015, a UN report criticized the U.S. government's treatment of whistleblowers, including Snowden. The report highlighted the significance of Snowden's revelations, stating they had a "deep and lasting impact." Additionally, the European Parliament invited Snowden to contribute to their NSA investigation.
November 10, 2015: Snowden Speaks at PEN American Center Event
Snowden participated in the PEN American Center's "Secret Sources: Whistleblowers, National Security and Free Expression" event on November 10, 2015, via a remote video link. This event took place at the Newseum.
2015: Sanders Supports Considering Snowden's Actions in Sentencing
By 2015, Bernie Sanders acknowledged the educational value of Edward Snowden's leaks in raising public awareness about government surveillance programs. Sanders advocated for considering Snowden's role in exposing these practices when determining appropriate legal consequences.
2015: Snowden Earns from Speaking Engagements
In 2015, Snowden earned over $200,000 from speaking engagements within the U.S., delivered digitally.
2015: New York Times Reports on Islamic State Using Snowden's Revelations
In 2015, The New York Times reported that the Islamic State group had studied Snowden's revelations about U.S. intelligence gathering tactics and subsequently altered their communication methods to avoid surveillance.
2015: Potential NSA Response at SXSW
In 2015, the director of SXSW, Hugh Forrest, invited the NSA to respond to Snowden's comments from the previous year's conference. This invitation followed an unsuccessful attempt by then-Representative Mike Pompeo to cancel Snowden's 2014 appearance.
March 19, 2016: Snowden's Keynote Address at LibrePlanet Conference
On March 19, 2016, Snowden delivered the opening keynote address at the LibrePlanet conference, a gathering of free software advocates and developers. This marked the first time he used a completely free software stack for a teleconferenced speech.
July 21, 2016: Snowden and Huang Publish Research on Smartphone Privacy
Snowden and hardware hacker Bunnie Huang presented their research on a smartphone case designed to enhance privacy at MIT Media Lab's Forbidden Research event on July 21, 2016. The "Introspection Engine" aimed to alert users to unauthorized data transmission, particularly beneficial for journalists and activists working under oppressive regimes.
September 15, 2016: House Intelligence Committee Report on Snowden
On September 15, 2016, a U.S. House Intelligence Committee report concluded that Snowden didn't meet the criteria of a whistleblower according to the Whistleblower Protection Act.
September 2016: House Intelligence Committee Report on Snowden Disclosures
In September 2016, the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence released a report on Edward Snowden's disclosures, highlighting the financial burden imposed on the government in responding to the leaks. The report also challenged the narrative surrounding Snowden's actions, characterizing it as misleading and exaggerated, further fueling the ongoing debate.
September 2016: Support for Snowden and Release of Biographical Film
September 2016 saw growing support for Edward Snowden, with Pentagon Papers leaker Daniel Ellsberg calling Snowden's NSA disclosures the most significant leak in U.S. history. The release of Oliver Stone's biographical film "Snowden" further fueled the debate, with Stone advocating for Snowden's pardon and labeling him a patriot.
November 2016: Obama States Conditions for Snowden Pardon
During an interview in November 2016, President Obama stated that he could not pardon Edward Snowden unless he returned to the United States and submitted himself to the legal process. This statement reiterated the U.S. government's stance on Snowden's actions and the importance of upholding the law.
2016: Report Reveals Snowden's Official CIA Position
A 2016 report by the US House of Representatives Select Committee on Intelligence disclosed that Snowden's official position at the CIA was an entry-level technical services officer.
2016: Shifting Perspectives on Snowden's Actions
By 2016, some opinions on Edward Snowden's actions had begun to shift. Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder acknowledged the public service aspect of Snowden's leaks in raising awareness about surveillance programs, although still maintaining that Snowden's actions were illegal.
2016: Eric Holder Recognizes Snowden's Public Service but Maintains Illegality
In 2016, former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder expressed a nuanced view of Edward Snowden's actions. Holder acknowledged Snowden's role in raising awareness about surveillance programs and prompting policy discussions but maintained that Snowden's methods were both inappropriate and illegal.
2016: Snowden Participates in Zcash Cryptocurrency Launch
In 2016, while in Russia, Snowden played a role in the creation of the Zcash cryptocurrency under the pseudonym John Dobbertin. His involvement involved briefly holding and then destroying a part of the private cryptographic key for the Zcash genesis block. This participation highlighted his continued interest in privacy-focused technologies.
2016: Snowden Becomes President of Freedom of the Press Foundation
In early 2016, Edward Snowden assumed the role of president at the Freedom of the Press Foundation, a San Francisco-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting journalists from hacking and government surveillance.
2016: Snowden's Claims About GCSB Surveillance Continue
Snowden's allegations of GCSB surveillance in New Zealand extended to 2016, encompassing a significant portion of John Key's time as Prime Minister.
2016: NSA's SIGINT Strategy (2012-2016)
The NSA's "SIGINT Strategy 2012-2016" outlined the agency's plans for expanding its surveillance activities with the goal of achieving dominance in global network surveillance.
February 2017: Snowden's Previous Paid Speech at a Public U.S. College
In February 2017, Snowden was paid $15,000 for a speech at the University of Pittsburgh, marking his last such engagement at a public U.S. college until March 2021.
2017: Snowden Marries Lindsay Mills
Edward Snowden married Lindsay Mills in 2017, marking a significant personal milestone while living in Russia. Their relationship and marriage demonstrated a sense of normalcy amidst the extraordinary circumstances of Snowden's life in exile.
2017: Snowden Receives Three-Year Residency Permit in Russia
In 2017, after his initial temporary refugee status expired, Edward Snowden was granted a three-year temporary residency permit in Russia. This allowed him freedom of movement within Russia and permitted him to travel abroad for up to three months. However, he was not granted permanent political asylum.
2017: Congressional Research Service Analyzes Espionage Act
In 2017, the Congressional Research Service conducted an analysis of the Espionage Act's usage in prosecuting unauthorized disclosures, including Snowden's case. The analysis examined what was disclosed, to whom, and how, considering the burden of proof, mens rea (guilty mind), and the First Amendment's protection of free speech. The report also highlighted gaps in the legal framework used in such prosecutions.
November 2, 2018: Snowden's Court Declaration in Jewel v. NSA
On November 2, 2018, Snowden provided a court declaration for the Jewel v. National Security Agency case. His statement confirmed that a document central to the case, which pertained to the mass surveillance program known as Stellar Wind, was indeed the same one he had encountered during his time as an NSA contractor.
November 2018: Snowden's Thoughts on Residency and the Internet
In November 2018, Snowden, while physically residing in Moscow, shared with an Israeli audience his perspective on living on the internet, stating, "I live on the internet and every other city in the world."
March 2019: Lawfare Blog Publishes Essay on Snowden
An essay by David Pozen examining Snowden's potential whistleblower status and related legal issues was published on Lawfare Blog in March 2019.
September 2019: Snowden Marries Lindsay Mills
In September 2019, Edward Snowden revealed that he had married Lindsay Mills in a Moscow courthouse.
September 16, 2019: Snowden Seeks Asylum in France
On September 16, 2019, it was reported that Snowden expressed a desire for political asylum in France under President Emmanuel Macron. This followed a previous unsuccessful attempt in 2013 under President Hollande. While the request received support from the Justice Minister, it faced potential diplomatic resistance.
September 17, 2019: Snowden's Memoir "Permanent Record" Published
On September 17, 2019, Edward Snowden's memoir, "Permanent Record," was published, offering his perspective on his life and the events leading up to the NSA leaks.
November 1, 2019: Russia Introduces Permanent Residency Permit
On November 1, 2019, Russia implemented new amendments to its immigration laws, introducing a permanent residence permit for the first time. This change removed the need for foreigners with pre-existing "permanent" residence permits to renew them every five years.
2019: Snowden Voices Support for Bernie Sanders
By 2019, Snowden expressed support for U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, who was running for president, praising him as a decent and principled politician. This endorsement underlined Snowden's continuing engagement with U.S. politics and his evolving political views.
2019: Snowden Lives Openly in Russia
By 2019, Snowden no longer felt the need to conceal his identity in public and began living a more open life in Russia. He could travel within the country and earned a living through speaking engagements, both locally and online. This shift reflected a degree of stability and acceptance in his life in exile.
2019: Changes in Russian Migration Law
In 2019, Russia implemented changes to its migration laws, which eventually paved the way for Edward Snowden to receive permanent residency in the country.
March 2020: Publication of "Whistleblowing Nation"
The book "Whistleblowing Nation," exploring whistleblowing in the U.S., was published in March 2020, with a chapter dedicated to analyzing Snowden's case and his potential status as a whistleblower.
April 2020: Russia Amends Citizenship Law
In April 2020, Russia amended its nationality law, allowing foreigners to acquire Russian citizenship without having to renounce their existing citizenship. This change paved the way for individuals like Snowden to become dual citizens.
April 16, 2020: Snowden Requests Extension of Russian Residency Permit
On April 16, 2020, CNN reported that Edward Snowden had requested a three-year extension of his Russian residency permit.
May 2020: End of Snowden's Series of Virtual Speaking Engagements
May 2020 marked the end of a period where Snowden actively engaged in paid virtual speaking engagements. This series, starting in September 2015, earned him over $1.2 million.
August 2020: Trump Considers Pardoning Snowden
In August 2020, President Trump announced his willingness to consider pardoning Edward Snowden, marking a shift from his previous stance. Despite acknowledging the division of public opinion regarding Snowden's actions, Trump's statement sparked controversy and drew criticism from those who viewed Snowden as a traitor.
August 2020: DOJ Reveals Snowden's Speaking Fees
In August 2020, court documents from the Department of Justice revealed that Snowden had earned over $1.2 million from speaking engagements since 2013, in addition to book advances.
September 2, 2020: U.S. Court Rules NSA Surveillance Program Illegal
A U.S. federal court ruled on September 2, 2020, in United States v. Moalin that the mass surveillance program exposed by Snowden was illegal and potentially unconstitutional.
October 2020: Snowden Granted Permanent Residency in Russia
In October 2020, Edward Snowden was granted permanent residency in Russia, a significant step toward securing his long-term future in the country. This status provided him with more stability and rights compared to his previous temporary residency.
November 2020: Snowden Applies for Dual U.S.-Russian Citizenship
In November 2020, Snowden and his wife, Lindsay, who were expecting their first child, applied for dual U.S.-Russian citizenship. Their decision was driven by the desire to maintain their family unit and avoid separation during a time of global uncertainty and travel restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
December 2020: Snowden's First Son is Born
Edward Snowden and Lindsay Mills welcomed their first son in December 2020.
March 2021: Snowden's First Paid Speech at a Public U.S. College Since 2017
Snowden gave his first paid speech at a public U.S. college since 2017, receiving $35,000 from Iowa State University in March 2021.
April 2021: Snowden's Appearance at a Canadian Investment Conference
In April 2021, Edward Snowden participated in a Canadian investment conference hosted by Sunil Tulsiani. During his appearance, Snowden emphasized his role as a whistleblower, informed attendees about Tulsiani's controversial past, and advised investors to conduct thorough research before making financial decisions.
September 2021: Snowden's Speaking Earnings Reported
Yahoo! Finance reported in September 2021 that Snowden had made over $1.2 million from 67 virtual speaking engagements between September 2015 and May 2020.
September 2022: Snowden's Second Son is Born
Edward Snowden's second son was born before September 2022.
September 2022: Snowden Becomes a Russian Citizen
In September 2022, President Vladimir Putin granted Russian citizenship to Edward Snowden, further solidifying his ties with Russia.
September 26, 2022: Putin Grants Snowden Russian Citizenship
On September 26, 2022, after living in Russia for almost a decade, Edward Snowden was granted Russian citizenship by Vladimir Putin. This event further solidified Snowden's asylum in Russia, making extradition to any other country impossible.
