Robert David Steele was a former U.S. Marine, CIA officer, and a prominent public figure known for his advocacy of open-source intelligence and his critiques of government operations. His work focused on improving transparency in intelligence and promoting the use of publicly available information to enhance decision-making processes. Steele believed that the traditional intelligence community often operated in secrecy and could significantly benefit from harnessing the power of open-source data. Throughout his career, Steele emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among various sectors, stressing that true intelligence should not be exclusive to governmental agencies. He argued that civic engagement and the inclusion of diverse perspectives could lead to more effective governance and better societal outcomes. Steele also championed the idea that education and active citizen participation are crucial for democracy. Steele's unique viewpoints gained him a following, although they often attracted controversy. He was known for challenging mainstream narratives and proposing unorthodox solutions to global issues. His legacy includes a strong push towards integrating technology and public resources into intelligence practices, aiming for a more informed and participatory society. Steele passed away in 2021, leaving behind a complex yet impactful legacy in the fields of intelligence and civic engagement. Robert David Steele was a former U.S. Marine, CIA officer, and a prominent public figure known for his advocacy of open-source intelligence and his critiques of government operations. His work focused on improving transparency in intelligence and promoting the use of publicly available information to enhance decision-making processes. Steele believed that the traditional intelligence community often operated in secrecy and could significantly benefit from harnessing the power of open-source data. Throughout his career, Steele emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among various sectors, stressing that true intelligence should not be exclusive to governmental agencies. He argued that civic engagement and the inclusion of diverse perspectives could lead to more effective governance and better societal outcomes. Steele also championed the idea that education and active citizen participation are crucial for democracy. Steele's unique viewpoints gained him a following, although they often attracted controversy. He was known for challenging mainstream narratives and proposing unorthodox solutions to global issues. His legacy includes a strong push towards integrating technology and public resources into intelligence practices, aiming for a more informed and participatory society. Steele passed away in 2021, leaving behind a complex yet impactful legacy in the fields of intelligence and civic engagement.