Behind the Bastards

Part One: How The Dulles Brothers Created The CIA And Destroyed Everything Else

May 18, 2021
Jason Pargin, a former editor for Robert Evans, joins to delve into the Dulles Brothers' controversial legacy. They explore how their affluent upbringing and ideologies significantly shaped the CIA and U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War. From the complexities of their decisions surrounding the Lusitania to their narcissistic traits impacting leadership, the discussion uncovers the moral dilemmas and lasting consequences of their actions. Pargin also reflects on the romance of espionage and the intertwining of corporate interests with government actions in Latin America.
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ANECDOTE

Overthrow of Hawaiian Monarchy

  • John Watson Foster, grandfather to the Dulles brothers, orchestrated the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893.
  • He justified this by claiming the native inhabitants were incapable of responsible government.
INSIGHT

Early US Intelligence

  • John Foster established an intelligence division focused on gathering information from Europe.
  • Initially, this division was primarily defensive, aiming to monitor foreign advancements in arms technology.
ANECDOTE

Lusitania Incident

  • The sinking of the Lusitania, falsely believed to be a defenseless passenger liner, fueled anti-German sentiment and pushed the US towards war.
  • In reality, the Lusitania carried war materials, making it a legitimate target under the rules of war.
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