FROM AMAZON: Over the course of five years, investigative reporters Sherry Sontag and Chris Drew interviewed hundreds of men who had never spoken about their underwater livesnot even to their wives and children. They uncovered a wealth of classified information: the tapping of undersea Soviet telephone cables, the stealing of Soviet weapons, the tragic collisions of enemy submarines. They tell of medals awarded in secret and deaths disguised with disinformation. Blind Man’s Bluff is a critical work of history that reads with all the excitement of a Tom Clancy novel and all the tragedy of Das Boot.
Blind Man’s Bluff
“Blind Man’s Bluff” by Sherry Sontag, Christopher Drew, and Annette Lawrence Drew is a captivating and eye-opening account of American submarine espionage during the Cold War. Through extensive research and interviews with former submariners, the book reveals the secret and daring missions undertaken by U.S. submarines to gather intelligence, tap undersea communication cables, and conduct covert operations. Blind Man’s Bluff provides a fascinating glimpse into the shadowy world of submarine espionage and the remarkable individuals who risked their lives for national security.
The title Blind Man’s Bluff is a name associated with a poker variant. In the context of poker, “Blind Man’s Bluff” typically refers to a game where players hold their cards facing outward, away from them, and make bets or decisions without seeing their own hand. This adds an element of bluffing as players try to infer the strength of their opponents’ hands based on betting patterns and behavior rather than the actual cards they hold. It’s a variation that adds a unique twist to traditional poker games by introducing an extra layer of psychological strategy.
Summary of Blind Man’s Bluff:
Blind Man’s Bluff is a compelling and revealing book that uncovers the clandestine world of American submarine espionage during the Cold War. Drawing on extensive research, declassified documents, and interviews with former submariners, the authors provide an unprecedented look into the secret operations and daring exploits conducted by U.S. submarines.
The book takes readers on a journey through the high-stakes game of submarine espionage, where the U.S. Navy’s silent and deadly submarines played a pivotal role in gathering intelligence and conducting covert missions. From tapping undersea communication cables to eavesdropping on Soviet naval activities, these submarines operated in the depths of the ocean, often under the constant threat of discovery and retaliation.
Blind Man’s Bluff introduces readers to the remarkable individuals who participated in these covert operations, including submariners and intelligence officers who carried out their missions with unwavering dedication, skill, and courage. The book provides firsthand accounts of their experiences, offering insights into the challenges they faced, the risks they took, and the sacrifices they made in service of their country.
Beyond the thrilling narratives of specific operations, Blind Man’s Bluff also delves into the broader implications of submarine espionage during the Cold War. It explores the strategic importance of intelligence gathering, the technological advancements that enabled submarine operations, and the impact these secret missions had on global affairs.
The authors present a balanced perspective, shedding light on both the successes and failures of American submarine espionage. They examine the controversies and ethical dilemmas surrounding these operations, including incidents of accidental collisions and the loss of submarines and crew members.
Overall, Blind Man’s Bluff offers a captivating and comprehensive account of American submarine espionage during the Cold War. It combines meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and firsthand testimonies to provide readers with a unique glimpse into the secretive world of submarine operations and the dedicated individuals who played a crucial role in gathering intelligence and safeguarding national security.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Blind Man’s Bluff is a captivating and insightful exploration of the hidden world of American submarine espionage. The book offers a compelling narrative, showcasing the bravery and ingenuity of those involved in these covert operations. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of intelligence gathering and the Cold War-era submarine activities.
My Goodreads Review:
Blind Man’s Bluff: The Untold Story of American Submarine Espionage by
Sherry SontagMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
The book is an exploration into the clandestine world of American submarine espionage. The authors unveil untold stories, offering a thrilling and insightful journey into the covert realm of underwater operations. A must-read for anyone fascinated by the hidden side of Cold War intrigue.
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