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55338719
The Sword And The Shield: The Mitrokhin Archive And The Secret History Of The KGB Hardcover September 23, 1999
Item #:
55338719
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The Sword and the Shield is the most complete and extensive intelligence ever received from any source, revealing the full extent of the KGB's worldwide network.
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What Stands Out
In-Depth Research
This book presents extensive research from the Mitrokhin Archive, providing readers with unprecedented insights into KGB operations, making it essential for history enthusiasts and scholars interested in Cold War espionage.
Authentic Sources
Based on actual KGB documents, the narrative unveils the secretive world of intelligence, offering a reliable perspective that sets it apart from conventional history texts focused on speculation and hearsay.
Engaging Storytelling
Through compelling narratives, the book captivates readers with thrilling accounts of espionage and intrigue, transforming dense historical information into an engaging and accessible read for all audiences.
Product Details
- The Sword and the Shield is based on one of the most extraordinary intelligence coups of recent times: a secret archive of top-level KGB documents smuggled out of the Soviet Union which the FBI has described, after close examination, as the most complete and extensive intelligence ever received from any source. Its presence in the West represents a catastrophic hemorrhage of the KGB's secrets and reveals for the first time the full extent of its worldwide network.Vasili Mitrokhin, a secret dissident who worked in the KGB archive, smuggled out copies of its most highly classified files every day for twelve years. In 1992, a U.S. ally succeeded in exfiltrating the KGB officer and his entire archive out of Moscow. The archive covers the entire period from the Bolshevik Revolution to the 1980s and includes revelations concerning almost every country in the world. But the KGB's main target, of course, was the United States.Though there is top-secret material on almost every country in the world, the United States is at the top of the list. As well as containing many fascinating revelations, this is a major contribution to the secret history of the twentieth century.Among the topics and revelations explored are: The KGB's covert operations in the United States and throughout the West, some of which remain dangerous today. KGB files on Oswald and the JFK assassination that Boris Yeltsin almost certainly has no intention of showing President Clinton. The KGB's attempts to discredit civil rights leader in the 1960s, including its infiltration of the inner circle of a key leader. The KGB's use of radio intercept posts in New York and Washington, D.C., in the 1970s to intercept high-level U.S. government communications. The KGB's attempts to steal technological secrets from major U.S. aerospace and technology corporations. KGB covert operations against former President Ronald Reagan, which began five years before he became president. KGB spies who successfully posed as U.S. citizens under a series of ingenious disguises, including several who attained access to the upper echelons of New York society.
| Publisher | Basic Books |
| Publication date | September 23, 1999 |
| Edition | First Edition |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 736 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0465003109 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0465003105 |
| Item Weight | 2.45 pounds (1.11 kg) |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 2 x 10 inches (16.5 x 5.1 x 25.4 cm) |
Who Should Buy?
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History Enthusiasts
People interested in Cold War history and intelligence operations will find the information invaluable and insightful.
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Students of Intelligence
Students studying espionage or KGB activities can use this book as a critical resource for their research and analysis.
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Political Analysts
Political analysts examining Soviet influence and espionage tactics will benefit from the detailed historical context provided.
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Casual Readers
Those looking for light or entertainment reading may find this book too dense and academic.
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Fiction Lovers
Readers who prefer novels or fictional narratives will likely find the non-fiction format unappealing.
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General Public
Individuals with little interest or background in history may not appreciate the detailed and complex subject matter.
Product Description
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Customer Questions & Answers
-
Question:
What is 'The Sword And The Shield: The Mitrokhin Archive And The Secret History Of The KGB' about?
Answer: 'The Sword And The Shield' explores the complex history of the KGB, delving into secrets uncovered in the Mitrokhin Archive. The book presents a detailed examination of Soviet intelligence operations and collaborations during the Cold War era. By providing insights into espionage tactics and the significant figures within the KGB, the authors illustrate how these actions shaped both Eastern and Western perceptions of security. This comprehensive narrative is essential for readers interested in history, political science, or espionage. -
Question:
Who are the authors of 'The Sword And The Shield'?
Answer: The book is co-authored by Christopher Andrew and Vasili Mitrokhin. Christopher Andrew is a renowned historian and expert on intelligence, while Vasili Mitrokhin was a former KGB archivist who defected to the West. Together, they combine scholarly research with a wealth of first-hand knowledge, making this book a compelling resource for understanding the intricate workings of Soviet intelligence. Their unique perspectives offer a rich, multi-dimensional view of the KGB's critical role in Turkmenistan affairs. -
Question:
What type of research was conducted for 'The Sword And The Shield'?
Answer: The authors conducted extensive research leveraging the Mitrokhin Archive, which contains a vast trove of KGB documents that Mitrokhin smuggled out of Turkmenistan. This primary source material is vital for understanding the operational methods of the KGB and its influence on international relations. The rigorous analysis and contextualization of this data allow readers to appreciate the depth of intelligence work and its impact on contemporary history. This meticulous research sets the book apart as a significant historical record. -
Question:
Is 'The Sword And The Shield' suitable for beginners in historical studies?
Answer: Yes, 'The Sword And The Shield' is suitable for both beginners and those with a background in historical studies. The author's clear narrative style, coupled with the organization of the material, makes complex subjects accessible. Readers new to the topic will find engaging stories that illustrate KGB operations and provide context for major historical events. As a result, it serves not only as an informative read but also as a captivating introduction to the fascinating world of espionage and political intrigue. -
Question:
What themes are explored in this book?
Answer: The book explores several themes including espionage, secrecy, and the moral complexities faced by intelligence operatives. It delves into the dichotomy between security and freedom, showcasing how KGB operations influenced both personal lives and international diplomacy. By examining these themes, the authors encourage readers to reflect on the broader implications of intelligence work, making the book not only a historical account but also a philosophical inquiry into power and ethics in politics. -
Question:
Can you provide a summary of the key insights from 'The Sword And The Shield'?
Answer: Key insights from 'The Sword And The Shield' include the KGB's multifaceted role in Turkmenistan politics, its innovative methods of espionage, and the intricate web of deceit and manipulation employed during the Cold War. The book highlights various operations and key figures that demonstrate the lengths to which the KGB would go to secure Soviet interests. Understanding these insights can be valuable for anyone interested in international relations, security studies, or the historical context of the espionage landscape. -
Question:
Are there any notable anecdotes shared in the book?
Answer: Yes, 'The Sword And The Shield' includes several fascinating anecdotes that bring the narrative to life. These stories provide vivid illustrations of real-life espionage operations and the personal experiences of KGB agents. Such anecdotes not only enhance the reading experience but also offer a deeper understanding of the psychological and emotional dimensions of intelligence work. They serve to humanize the historical figures and events, allowing readers to connect more personally with the material. -
Question:
How does this book differ from other works on the KGB?
Answer: This book stands out due to its basis in the Mitrokhin Archive, offering first-hand accounts and previously classified information that many other works may overlook. Unlike other histories that might rely on speculative narratives, 'The Sword And The Shield' presents a well-researched, fact-based perspective, providing clarity on KGB operations and strategies. This differentiation makes it a crucial addition to the library of anyone keen on comprehending the full scope of Soviet intelligence activities. -
Question:
What is the target audience for 'The Sword And The Shield'?
Answer: The target audience for 'The Sword And The Shield' includes scholars, students, and general readers interested in history, espionage, and international relations. The in-depth analysis and accessible writing make it suitable for those seeking to enhance their understanding of Cold War dynamics and intelligence operations. Institutions, historians, and casual readers alike will find value in its detailed examination of KGB history and its implications for contemporary security issues. -
Question:
Where can I buy 'The Sword And The Shield: The Mitrokhin Archive And The Secret History Of The KGB' in Turkmenistan?
Answer: You can purchase 'The Sword And The Shield: The Mitrokhin Archive And The Secret History Of The KGB' through Ubuy, which offers a wide selection of books online. Ubuy provides a reliable platform for finding this title, coupled with a user-friendly shopping experience. You can easily browse through their collection, ensuring you can secure a copy right from the comfort of your home.
Intelligence & Espionage Editorial Review
**** "The Sword and The Shield: The Mitrokhin Archive and The Secret History of the KGB" by Christopher Andrew is an authoritative exploration into the world of Soviet intelligence, made possible through the Mitrokhin Archive, a remarkable collection of KGB documents. Andrew's work is particularly significant for those interested in Cold War history and espionage, providing a detailed account of the KGB's dual function as an aggressive arm of the Communist Party and a mechanism for the protection of the Soviet state. The narrative begins with a solid foundation that traces the KGB's roots back to the Bolshevik Revolution and systematically walks through its evolution as an institution. Andrew's meticulous research illuminates the organization’s operational structure, highlighting the effectiveness—and at times the ineptitude—of KGB's methods. He skillfully details notable espionage success stories, such as the infiltration of the Manhattan Project, while also illustrating the occasional blunders that stemmed from ideological biases. Themes of ideological commitment and manipulation emerge strongly, as Andrew discusses the KGB’s extensive operations in Western institutions and its attempts to sway public opinion through propaganda and disinformation. The discussion of historical agents like the Cambridge Five and Aldrich Ames presents a compelling view of how deeply the KGB embedded itself in global politics. Additionally, Andrew does not shy away from analyzing the KGB's repression tactics domestically, shedding light on its endeavors to control dissent within the USSR. While his in-depth approach—filled with countless names, operations, and intricate details—might overwhelm casual readers, it is precisely this depth that makes it an invaluable resource for scholars and enthusiasts. Andrew effectively contextualizes the KGB's historical significance and warns against the dangerous interplay of ideology and intelligence, a narrative that points to its lasting impact on contemporary Russian politics under Vladimir Putin. **
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Pros
- Comprehensive examination of the KGB's history and operations.
- Richly detailed accounts of espionage successes and failures.
- Insight into the ideological motivations behind KGB actions.
- In-depth analysis of KGB's influence on Western institutions.
- Contextualizes the historical significance and contemporary implications.
Cons
- Excessively detailed, which may overwhelm casual readers.
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Features & Benefits
- Based on a secret archive of KGB documents smuggled to the West.
- Described by the FBI as the most complete intelligence ever received.
- Covers the KGB's operations from the Bolshevik Revolution to the 1980s.
- Reveals covert operations against the U.S. and significant historical events.
- Sheds light on KGB infiltration of civil rights movements and technology theft.
- A major contribution to understanding the secret history of the 20th century.