Application Development Using SSL Protocol

Hello,

I am trying to write a simple application in C on Linux which encrypts a given file and / or transmits data after encryption over a network.

I can read about encryption / SSL/ TCP-IP through various RFCs available on the internet but these RFCs will give me an understanding of the protocols.

But I need to call APIs / interfaces / functions that these protocols extend to write my application. Where can I find a list (with explanation)/ tutorial of APIs by protocols to accomplish my goal.

Thanks!