Cryptologic History

"On This Date in Cryptologic History" Calendar

1973: Search for government-wide data encryption standard begins.

Friday, May 15, 2026

15 May 1973: The National Bureau of Standards (in cooperation with NSA) began solicitation for a government-wide data encryption standard. DES was adopted three and a half years later.

Learn About the Pioneers

Learn about the various individuals and groups who paved the way in the field of cryptology, cyber, computers, and more.