The Rest Is History 125. The CIA
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Nov 25, 2021 Hugh Wilford, a history professor at California State University, Long Beach and author of 'The Mighty Wurlitzer', discusses the enigmatic CIA. He dives into its origins and controversial operations like the 1953 Iran coup and Operation Chaos, revealing the agency's quirky infiltration into peace movements. The conversation also tackles the CIA's successes and failures in intelligence work, its complex legacy in global politics, and its intriguing role in shaping popular culture, blending insightful analysis with moments of humor.
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1953 Iranian Coup
- Kermit Roosevelt orchestrated the 1953 Iranian coup, removing Mossadegh from power.
- This event significantly impacted US-Iran relations, fueling the 1979 revolution.
CIA and Covert Action
- The CIA's early successes, like the 1953 Iranian coup, fueled a belief in covert action's effectiveness.
- This led to increased interventions, often covert due to decolonization and international pressure.
Castro Overthrow Attempts
- The CIA's attempts to overthrow Castro included comical plots like exploding cigars and poisoned shoes.
- However, more sinister plots involved mafia involvement and potential neurotoxins.
