Legacy of Ashes by Tim Weiner
- 1. Legacy of Ashes by Tim Weiner is a comprehensive and meticulously researched narrative that delves into the history and operations of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) from its inception in 1947 through the early 21st century. Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, utilizes a wealth of declassified documents and extensive interviews with key figures to paint a critical portrait of the CIA as an institution plagued by misjudgments, ethical dilemmas, and operational failures. The book covers various significant events, including the agency's involvement in coups, covert operations, and its attempts to influence global politics, demonstrating how its historical missteps have shaped not only American foreign policy but also the geopolitical landscape of the world. Weiner's narrative highlights the dichotomy between the agency's lofty ideals of protecting American interests and the often murky reality of its actions, offering readers a nuanced understanding of a powerful organization that has operated in secrecy. Through engaging storytelling and a critical lens, Legacy of Ashes challenges the reader to consider the consequences of intelligence operations, the complexities of national security, and the legacy of power and accountability in the shadows of government.
What is the primary subject of Tim Weiner's 'Legacy of Ashes'?
A) The history of American presidents
B) The history of the FBI
C) The history of the Cold War
D) The history of the CIA
- 2. According to Weiner, what has been the CIA's consistent legacy?
A) Neutrality
B) Success
C) Failure
D) Profitability
- 3. What major historical event did the CIA fail to predict, as detailed in the book?
A) The end of World War II
B) The Cuban Missile Crisis
C) The collapse of the Soviet Union
D) The 9/11 attacks
- 4. The book argues that the CIA's analysis was often compromised by what?
A) Lack of funding
B) Excessive transparency
C) Politicization and pressure from the White House
D) Too many foreign agents
- 5. How does Weiner characterize the CIA's use of covert action?
A) As the agency's primary strength
B) As rarely attempted
C) As often counterproductive and damaging to US interests
D) As consistently successful and precise
- 6. What does 'Legacy of Ashes' suggest about the relationship between the CIA and the presidency?
A) The relationship has been one of perfect harmony
B) The CIA has always obeyed presidential orders
C) Presidents have often been misled by the CIA
D) Presidents have had no control over the CIA
- 7. The book details the CIA's failure to accurately assess the progress of what war?
A) The Korean War
B) The Vietnam War
C) The War in Afghanistan
D) The Gulf War
- 8. The book argues that the CIA's culture of secrecy often served to hide what?
A) Its generous funding from Congress
B) Its successful operations from the public
C) Its alliances with foreign governments
D) Its own incompetence and failures
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