Blackwater USA is a private military security firm that was founded in 1997 by a former Navy SEAL. It has grown to a multi-billion dollar corporation due to its leading role in continuing the escalation of violence in Iraq from 2003 to the present day through prestigious contracts with the U.S. military. Another major source of income has been Blackwater's online store where they sell hats, socks and other items that tough people need in order to harm others in the name of the causes of peace, security, democracy, freedom, personal gain or profit. Blackwater itself is dedicated to providing, as stated on their website, "efficient and effective turnkey solutions that positively impact the lives of those still caught in desperate times".