Secrets, Leaks & Scandals: 2 Volume Set

The tension between openness and transparency with the need to keep information secure has been a major issue in American history. This title provides primary documentation on secrets, leaks, and scandals.

Format: Hardback
Length: 800 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2018
Publisher: H.W. Wilson Publishing Co.

The interplay between openness and transparency on the one hand, and the imperative to safeguard information from adversaries on the other, has been a central theme in some of the most captivating chapters of American history. This title serves as a comprehensive repository of primary sources that shed light on the secrets, leaks, and scandals that have shaped the nation's past.

Throughout the course of American history, there has been a persistent tension between the desire for openness and transparency and the need to ensure the security and confidentiality of vital information. This delicate balance has played out in numerous pivotal moments, shaping the course of the country and influencing public opinion.

One of the most notable examples of this tension is the Watergate scandal, which unfolded in the 1970s. During the Nixon administration, a group of officials engaged in a series of illegal activities, including wiretapping and surveillance, to undermine the Democratic Party and gain political advantage. The scandal was exposed when a young journalist named Carl Bernstein broke the story, leading to the resignation of President Nixon and a profound impact on American politics.

Another significant episode in the history of transparency and security was the release of the Pentagon Papers in the 1970s. These documents, which detailed the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War, were obtained by a journalist named Daniel Ellsberg and leaked to the public. The release of the Pentagon Papers sparked a national debate about the role of the government in secrecy and the importance of transparency in decision-making.

More recently, the Snowden revelations in 2013 brought attention to the extent of government surveillance and the privacy concerns of citizens. Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor, leaked classified information about the agency's surveillance programs, which sparked a global debate about the balance between security and privacy.

Despite these challenges, there have been efforts to promote transparency and security in government. For example, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in the United States allows citizens to request access to government records, promoting transparency and accountability. Additionally, there have been efforts to improve cybersecurity and protect sensitive information from cyber threats.

In conclusion, the tension between openness and transparency on the one hand, and the need to keep information secure and out of the hands of an enemy on the other, has been a defining feature of American history. This title provides a comprehensive collection of primary sources that shed light on the secrets, leaks, and scandals that have shaped the nation's past, highlighting the importance of balancing these competing interests in a democratic society.

Weight: 1878g
Dimension: 233 x 265 x 49 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781682176986