Author Archives: Agent Double A

‘Never admit anything unless you have to’: Thatcher and Intelligence Secrecy

Legendary British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher (October 1925 to April 2013), who would have turned 89 this month, was convinced that Britain’s intelligence services should remain absolutely secret, and tried repeatedly to protect them from the gaze of public scrutiny. … Continue reading

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Ben Macintyre Q&A “A Spy Among Friends”

Master storyteller Ben Macintyre’s most ambitious work to date brings to life the twentieth century’s greatest spy story with A Spy Among Friends: Kim Philby and The Great Betrayal. Macintyre is a writer-at-large for The Times of London and the … Continue reading

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10 Spy Films Celebrating Anniversaries

Can you believe it’s been over a decade since the Bourne series first premiered in theaters? Several beloved and distinguished spy film classics are enjoying notable anniversaries in 2014. Wondering if your favorites are on the list? Travel back in … Continue reading

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The Implications of DoD’s New WMD Strategy

In June, the Department of Defense released its newest report: “Strategy for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction.” Reports like this from the DoD, State Department, and even CIA are released from time to time and temporarily pique my interest, but … Continue reading

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In response to Snowden’s NBC News Interview

Last week, NBC News aired Brian Williams’ interview with Edward Snowden. Recorded last week from a hotel in Moscow, the interview provided some interesting fodder for national debate. They spoke on topics ranging from Snowden’s motivations, to the impact of his … Continue reading

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The Moscow Rules Still Rule

The Cold War may be over, but much like “Rules of Engagement” for spies, the Moscow Rules still serve as prominent guidelines today. Developed by the CIA, the Moscow Rules was an ode to the dangerous locale that Moscow was … Continue reading

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The Americans – Fact or Fiction?

People who suspect foreign spies walk amongst them might be disregarded as “conspiracy theorists,” but did you know KGB operatives actually lived in disguise as mild-mannered Americans during the Cold War? This important moment in spy history is dramatized in … Continue reading

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License to Love: Top Spy Couples

In the world of espionage, love can be a dangerous affair. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we explore our favorite spy couples – both in real life & on-screen – duos who have mixed romance and spying. In some … Continue reading

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Top Ten Spy Books According to Peter Earnest

Good morning, agents. Before you head into the field, it’s imperative that you review the following documents as assigned by our resident spy, Peter Earnest. This list represents a comprehensive guide to trade craft and past missions that will help … Continue reading

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WATCHLIST: BEST SPY MOVIES OF ALL TIME

Freaking out over federal surveillance? It’s time for cinematic distraction that even the NSA would approve. Consider this list your first assignment on the way to becoming a full-fledged espionage expert. 12. The Good Shepherd We chose this spy flick for its … Continue reading

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