**Who is Edward Snowden?** Edward Snowden is a former computer intelligence consultant who leaked highly classified information from the National Security Agency (NSA) in 2013 when he was an employee and subcontractor for the CIA. - This was done as an effort ["to inform the public as to that which is done in their name and that which is done against them."](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jun/09/edward-snowden-nsa-whistleblower-surveillance) - His controversial actions mean he has been referred to as a traitor, a hero, a whistleblower, a dissident, and a patriot. **What is a patriot by definition?** - "A person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it against enemies or detractors." - Oxford Languages **Why do some call him a patriot?** - He leaked information to the people of America concerning the state violating their privacy and rights. - He valued his morals and the people of his country before his job and duty to the CIA. **Why do some disagree?** - [Obama](https://www.politico.com/story/2013/08/edward-snowden-is-a-patriot-095421) said that if Snowden is truly patriotic, he would come back to the United States and respect their legal system, make his arguments in court and leave it up to a jury to decide. - Debates on the separation of the country, state and its citizens. Must one respect all to be considered a patriot? What if the state is the enemy against which one must defend the country?