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Bodyguard

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For other uses, see Bodyguard (disambiguation).
"Executive protection" redirects here. For the film, see Executive Protection (film).
Not to be confused with lifeguard.
Bodyguard
Bodyguards with President Ronald Reagan moments before he was shot in March 1981
Occupation
NamesClose protection officer, executive protection agent, personal protection specialist
Occupation type
Government employment or private employment
Activity sectors
Law enforcement, government, military, security
Description
Related jobs
Security guard, law enforcement officer, anti-terrorism specialist, intelligence officer

A bodyguard (or close protection officer/operative) is a type of security guard, government law enforcement officer, or servicemember who protects an important person or group of people, such as high-ranking public officials, wealthy businesspeople, and celebrities, from harm. The personnel team that protects a VIP is often referred to as the VIP's security detail.

Most important public figures, such as heads of state, heads of government, and governors are protected by a team of bodyguards from a government agency, security forces, or police forces. Less-important public figures, or those with lower risk profiles, may be accompanied by a single bodyguard who doubles as a driver.

Bodyguards have existed since ancient civilizations, with notable examples including the Roman Praetorian Guard, Persian Immortals, and the Janissaries of the Ottoman Empire. These roles have evolved into modern executive protection professionals, equipped with advanced technologies and training.

Etymology

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The term 'bodyguard' originates from the combination of 'body,' referring to the individual being protected, and 'guard,' signifying protection. While the term first appeared in English in the early 18th century, the concept predates the word by millennia.

Roles

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U.S. Secret Service agents guarding U.S. President Barack Obama
Walter B. Slocombe, the U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, with his bodyguard in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1996. The bodyguard is armed with an M16 rifle.
A team of bodyguards protecting Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff during her inaugural ceremony.
Angela Merkel, the Chancellor of Germany, with her bodyguards.
Quanell X (center), the leader of the New Black Panther Party, with his bodyguards.
A Croatian close protection unit trains using sub-machine guns and pistols during a demonstration exercise.
A bodyguard wearing an earpiece for two-way radio, so he can receive instructions.
18th century Manchu Imperial Guard of the Qianlong Emperor.
The Cossacks Imperator Bodyguard unit from the early 1900s.
Illustration of Japanese Imperial bodyguard Watanabe no Tsuna fighting a demon.

The work of a bodyguard consists mainly of planning routes, pre-searching rooms and buildings where the client will be visiting, researching the backgrounds of people that will have contact with the client, searching vehicles, and escorting the client on their day-to-day activities.[1] In the event of an emergency, a bodyguard's priority will always be to evacuate their client, rather than engage with threats.[2]

Modern executive protection extends beyond physical protection to include risk assessment, secure transportation, and coordination with event organizers to maintain a secure environment during public or private functions.[3]

Historical Examples

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Throughout history, bodyguards have served pivotal roles in protecting rulers and influential figures. For instance:

  • The Roman Praetorian Guard, established during the Roman Republic, provided security for emperors and wielded significant political power.
  • The Persian Immortals, an elite military unit of the Achaemenid Empire, maintained the king's safety with a standing force of 10,000 soldiers.
  • The Ottoman Janissaries, originally formed as the Sultan's personal guard, became a symbol of loyalty and military prowess.
  • In Japan, samurai warriors served as bodyguards to daimyo (feudal lords), adhering to the Bushido code of honor.
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The future of executive protection is increasingly influenced by technology. Advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI), drones for surveillance, and biometric access controls are transforming the field. Additionally, the growing prevalence of digital threats has integrated cybersecurity measures into protection strategies, including encrypted communication and online threat monitoring.[4]

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Legal requirements for bodyguards vary by country. For instance, in the United States, bodyguards may require state-specific licensing to carry firearms. In Brazil, private security professionals must pass rigorous background checks and receive official authorization to operate. These regulations ensure both compliance with local laws and the safety of clients.[5]

See also

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References

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Bodyguards.
  1. ^ "What's it like being a bodyguard?". BBC. April 4, 2011. Retrieved 2011-04-04.
  2. ^ Turk, Victoria. "How realistic is Bodyguard? A real Personal Protection Officer tells all". Wired. ISSN 1059-1028. Retrieved 2024-04-04.
  3. ^ Silva, Lucas (20 March 2024). "The History and Evolution of Bodyguards/Executive Protection". vanguardattache.com. Retrieved 22 January 2025.
  4. ^ Silva, Lucas (22 January 2025). "The History and Evolution of Bodyguards/Executive Protection". vanguardattache.com. Retrieved 22 January 2025.
  5. ^ Silva, Lucas (22 January 2025). "The History and Evolution of Bodyguards/Executive Protection". vanguardattache.com. Retrieved 22 January 2025.
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