Title
Secret Messages: Codebreaking And American Diplomacy, 19301945 (Modern War Studies),Used
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To defeat your enemies you must know them well. In wartime, however, enemy codemakers make that task much more difficult. If you cannot break their codes and read their messages, you may discover too late the enemy's intentions. That's why codebreakers were considered such a crucial weapon during World War II.In Secret Messages, David Alvarez provides the first comprehensive analysis of the impact of decoded radio messages (signals intelligence) upon American foreign policy and strategy from 1930 to 1945. He presents the most complete account to date of the U.S. Army's topsecret Signal Intelligence Service (SIS): its creation, its struggles, its rapid wartime growth, and its contributions to the war effort.Alvarez reveals the inner workings of the SIS (precursor of today's NSA) and the codebreaking process and explains how SIS intercepted, deciphered, and analyzed encoded messages. From its headquarters at Arlington Hall outside Washington, D.C., SIS grew from a staff of four novice codebreakers to more than 10,000 people stationed around the globe, secretly monitoring the communications of not only the Axis powers but dozens of other governments as well and producing a flood of intelligence.Some of the SIS programs were so clandestine that even the White Houseunaware of the agency's existence until 1937was kept uninformed of them, such as the 1943 creation of a supersecret program to break Soviet codes and ciphers. In addition, Alvarez brings to light such previously classified operations as the interception of Vatican communications and a comprehensive program to decrypt the communications of our wartime allies. He also dispels many of the myths about the SIS's influence on American foreign policy, showing that the impact of special intelligence in the diplomatic sphere was limited by the indifference of the White House, constraints within the program itself, and rivalries with other agencies (like the FBI).Drawing upon military and intelligence archives, interviews with retired and active cryptanalysts, and over a million pages of cryptologic documents declassified in 1996, Alvarez illuminates this dark corner of intelligence history and expands our understanding of its role in and contributions to the American effort in World War II.
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- Q: How many pages are in 'Secret Messages: Codebreaking and American Diplomacy, 1930-1945'? A: There are three hundred two pages in this book. It provides a detailed exploration of codebreaking during World War II.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is available in hardcover binding. This format ensures durability and a high-quality presentation.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'Secret Messages'? A: The book measures six and one-half inches by nine and one-half inches by one inch. These dimensions make it a manageable size for reading.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Secret Messages'? A: The author is David Alvarez. He is known for his in-depth research on intelligence and espionage history.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book is categorized under Intelligence and Espionage. It offers insights into critical wartime intelligence operations.
- Q: How should I read 'Secret Messages'? A: You can read this book at your own pace. It is suitable for anyone interested in military history and espionage.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in military history? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners. David Alvarez presents complex topics in an accessible manner for all readers.
- Q: Can I use this book for academic purposes? A: Yes, this book is ideal for academic research. It includes detailed analyses and references that support scholarly work.
- Q: How do I keep 'Secret Messages' in good condition? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve its quality over time.
- Q: Are there any specific care instructions for this hardcover book? A: Yes, avoid exposing the book to moisture. Wipe the cover with a dry cloth to keep it clean and free from dust.
- Q: What should I do if my book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a replacement or refund. Ensure you provide evidence of the damage.
- Q: Does this book have a return policy? A: Yes, most sellers offer a return policy. Check the specific terms provided by the retailer at the time of purchase.
- Q: How can I find more books like 'Secret Messages'? A: Look for books in the Intelligence and Espionage category. You can also check recommendations based on similar themes and authors.
- Q: Is there a glossary or index in the book? A: Yes, 'Secret Messages' includes an index. This will help you locate specific topics or terms discussed in the book.
- Q: What makes this book different from others on the same topic? A: This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the Signal Intelligence Service's impact on American diplomacy, offering unique insights.
- Q: Can I read this book if I am not familiar with codebreaking? A: Yes, you can read this book without prior knowledge. It provides background information to help you understand the context.