The pervasiveness of global tuberculosis (TB) poses a particular set of challenges to policymakers. In order to make the necessary strategic decisions, it is essential to understand how the disease works and its impact on individuals, families, communities, and broader global health goals. This primer is intended to lay out the basics for a nontechnical audience to give policymakers the information they need to make informed and accurate decisions about the future of U.S. TB control efforts.