Modern Wisdom #629 - John Lisle - The Insane Tactics The CIA Used To Defeat Hitler In WWII
4 snips
May 18, 2023 John Lisle, a historian and author specializing in WWII espionage, shares eye-opening tales of the CIA's outlandish tactics during the war. He reveals bizarre operations like the failed transgender attempt on Hitler and a plan to unleash radioactive foxes in Japan. Listeners are treated to the absurdity of exploding pens and a former agent discharging his weapon near FDR. Discover the eccentric methods of the OSS's Dirty Tricks Department and how these antics reflected the surreal nature of espionage at the time.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Donovan's D-Day Daredevilry
- William Donovan, head of the OSS, landed on Normandy the day after D-Day.
- Seeking action, he searched for his cyanide pill, prepared for suicide over capture.
Donovan's Rise in Intelligence
- William Donovan, a World War I hero and lawyer, had a close relationship with FDR.
- Despite differing political views, Donovan convinced FDR to create a centralized intelligence agency, the OSS.
Donovan's 'Just Do It' Mentality
- Don't ask for permission, just do things.
- Act first and seek forgiveness later, reflecting Donovan's leadership style in the OSS.
