Stuff They Don't Want You To Know Yes, The CIA Hired Magicians, Chapter One: The Craft and The Art
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Feb 20, 2025 Delve into the surprising collaboration between the CIA and magicians, exploring how unconventional methods blurred the lines between fact and fiction. Uncover the intriguing history of espionage in the U.S., with tales of figures like Benjamin Franklin and the evolution of military tactics from the Revolutionary War onward. Discover the OSS's whimsical side during WWII and the morally complex legacy of the CIA, including controversial programs like MKUltra. The blend of truth, myth, and playful commentary keeps the conversation lively and engaging.
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Asymmetric Warfare in the Revolution
- During the Revolutionary War, the Americans used unorthodox strategies due to limited resources.
- This asymmetric warfare gave them an advantage against the more traditional European forces.
Pre-WWII Intelligence
- Before World War II, US intelligence gathering was ad hoc, lacking a central system.
- Intelligence often relied on individuals who could travel and blend in.
Pearl Harbor's Impact
- The attack on Pearl Harbor was a turning point, prompting the creation of the OSS.
- It spurred conspiracy theories about US foreknowledge and the influence of trade policies.
