Enemy Within: A History of Espionage

Writing 2, 500 years ago, the Chinese philosopher-general Sun Tzû advised that "knowledge of the enemy can only be obtained by other men." If this is the case, and history suggests it is, the study of espionage must come out of the shadows. One should always know one's enemy. More so if it is an enemy within.

Publishers Weekly

Crowdy, who has previously written for Osprey on the uniforms and organizations of French revolutionary armed forces, reflects his publisher's expanding horizons in this survey of espionage from ancient times to America's invasion of Iraq. Since Egypt fought the Hittites, he observes, secret agents have been dispatched to spy and perform other deeds that may be against the law but are perceived to be in the country's best interest. Though Crowdy is familiar with standard sources, this is a work of narrative and anecdote rather than analysis, and succeeds within that context. He discusses the role of intelligence collecting in creating and sustaining the Persian, Roman and Mongol empires, offering Judas as an early example of a double agent. The development of professional secret services in early modern Europe segues into the often-overlooked role of intelligence in the Revolutionary/Napoleonic era, making for tales of spy and counterspy that are the most interesting in the book. As Crowdy moves into more recent times, he stresses increasing technological competition, reflecting the increasing difficulty of mounting human intelligence operations in modern national security states. His conclusion is a paradox: secret services must be kept under control, yet be effective enough "to make a difference." (Oct. 31) Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

Terry Crowdy has a life long passion for history which was first kindled working on the Fort Amhurst restoration project in the Medway Towns, where he spent his school summers as a fortress tunnel guide. Through this association he developed a passionate interest in the Napoleonic Wars and participated in many of the bicentennial celebrations marking the wars of the French Revolution. His enthusiasm led to significant research in the French military archives at the Château de Vincennes near Paris. Terry is equally passionate about the history of 'Secret War' - in particular military espionage - a subject he feels is too often overlooked. After a long stint as bass guitarist for the rock group "Soma", Terry put pen to paper and is now the author of a number of books and articles. The author lives in Kent, UK.