Become a Creator today!Start creating today - Share your story with the world!
Start for free
00:00:00
00:00:01
The most damaging female spy in US history (277) image

The most damaging female spy in US history (277)

S16 E277 · Cold War Conversations
Avatar
2 Plays1 year ago

Ana Montes was the most damaging female spy in US history.

For nearly 17 years, Montes was one of the government's top Cuba experts, with easy access to classified documents. By night, she was working for Fidel Castro's Cuba, listening to coded messages over shortwave radio, passing US secrets to handlers in local restaurants, and slipping into Havana wearing a wig.

Her only sister, Lucy, worked for the FBI helping the FBI flush Cuban spies out of the United States. Little did Lucy or her family know that the greatest Cuban spy of all was sitting right next to them at Thanksgivings, baptisms, and weddings.

 I speak with investigative journalist Jim Popkin whose book  Code Name Blue Wren, weaves the tale of two sisters who chose two very different paths and reveals the making of a traitor- a woman labelled "one of the most damaging spies in U.S. history" by America's top counter-intelligence official.

After more than two decades in federal prison, Montes was freed in January 2023.

Buy the book here https://amzn.to/3l9s47k

Episodes mentioned

Number stations https://coldwarconversations.com/episode239/

Photos and videos relating to this episode https://coldwarconversations.com/episode277/

The battle to preserve Cold War history is ongoing and your support can provide me with the ammunition to continue to keep this podcast on the air. Via a simple monthly donation, you’ll become part of our community and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and you’ll bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history. 

Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link.

Code name Blue Wren Book Givaway

Info here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode277/

Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/


Support the show


Support the project! https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/

Follow us on Twitter here https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/
Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations

Recommended