

A CIA Man in China: 20 Years Imprisoned
Nov 14, 2024
In this engaging discussion, journalist Barry Wirth sheds light on John 'Jack' Downey, America's longest-held POW, who spent 21 years in a Chinese prison. They delve into the CIA's covert operations during the Cold War, the complexities of espionage, and the psychological resilience Downey exhibited behind bars. Wirth also reveals the struggles families faced due to misinformation and contrasts Downey's fate with that of fellow operative Gary Powers, offering a gripping perspective on resilience, identity, and the human cost of secrets.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Intro
00:00 • 4min
Espionage in the Shadow of War
03:38 • 15min
Misreported Lives: The Cost of Secrets
18:41 • 4min
Behind Enemy Lines: The CIA in China
22:34 • 12min
Resilience and Reinvention: Life After Imprisonment
34:43 • 6min
Contrasting Fates of Cold War Espionage: Powers vs. Downey
40:21 • 4min
The Story of America's Longest Held POW
44:16 • 2min