Sword and Shield -- Secret Operations of the 20th Century Russian Intelligence Agencies

Author: Gao Jinhu et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-07-01
Features: It is one of the world's most renowned intelligence agencies, enigmatic and mysterious; it is the sharp sword of the Soviet Union; it is the guardian of the red regime; it is also the accomplice of the autocratic rule of the Kremlin. The Soviet State Security Committee could take any action according to the wishes of the Soviet leaders. It was far more than just a secret police agency, far more than just an intelligence and counterintelligence agency. It was also a tool for subversion, behind-the-scenes manipulation, atrocities, terrorism, and secret interference in the domestic affairs of foreign countries. — Allen Dulles, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency of the United States
This series of books captures the essential characteristics of the international hidden front struggle, reflects the ups and downs of the hidden front in the 20th century, and recreates the wisdom and role of intelligence personnel who were active on and off the stage in political, military, and diplomatic struggles. The books depict both the bloody and fiery scenes under the glint of swords and daggers, as well as the struggles of the soul and body amidst the red lights and wine. More importantly, they provide a calm observation and detailed analysis of the characteristics and laws of the hidden front struggle. Therefore, this series of books can not only provide readers with thrilling sensory stimulation but also inspire them to think rationally. This is possible because most of the compilers of this series are professionals.
The chief editor of the series has long been engaged in the study of press history and is one of the pioneers of the discipline of intelligence history in China, with extensive writing experience. The basic starting point of this series of books is to avoid the common pitfalls of some works on intelligence themes, such as improper selection of materials, historical inaccuracies, and exaggeration of legends. Using the wisdom of experts to select materials and interpreting events with the courage of historians, the series genuinely focuses on important figures and events that reflect the evolution of 20th-century intelligence history. It respects the facts, connects the present with the past, and allows readers to find the time corridor that links history and reality through layers of life and death, blood and fire.