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Ghost Wars
736 pages, 2004
The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Steve Coll spent years reporting from the Middle East to produce this expose of the CIA's involvement in al-Qaeda's evolution. He uncovered new evidence and interviewed senior US officials and foreign spymasters, giving the full inside story of the CIA's covert funding of an Islamic jihad against Soviet forces in Afghanistan, which sowed the seeds of Bin Laden's rise, traced how he built his global network, and revealed how American intelligence repeatedly failed to grasp the rising threat of terrorism.
In Ghost Wars, Steve Coll gives us a deep look into the CIA's involvement in Afghanistan. He explores how the agency's actions and decisions shaped the country's history and led to the rise of the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. It's a fascinating look into the world of international politics and espionage.
The book shows us how foreign intervention can have long-lasting and unintended consequences. Coll's research into the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the subsequent American involvement provides a clear example of this. It's a reminder to think about the potential fallout before getting involved in foreign conflicts.
Ghost Wars takes us on a journey through the intricate and often confusing world of Afghan politics. Coll does an excellent job of breaking down the various factions and their motivations, helping us understand the country's turbulent history. It's a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about this complex region.
One of the key takeaways from the book is how extremist groups like the Taliban and Al-Qaeda came to power. Coll digs into the factors that contributed to their rise, including foreign intervention, political instability, and religious extremism. It's a sobering look at how these groups can gain traction.
Finally, Ghost Wars emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context. Coll shows us how past events and decisions can shape the present and future. By looking back, we can gain insights into current issues and potentially avoid making the same mistakes. It's a valuable lesson for anyone interested in history or politics.
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Ghost Wars is a complex study of intelligence operations and international politics, offering a well-documented history that reads like a thriller.
The New York Times - International NewspaperGhost Wars provides an engaging inside look into the CIA's covert Afghan war. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of international relations and American foreign policy.
The Washington Post - National NewspaperGhost Wars is a meticulously researched, clear-eyed account of the CIA's involvement in Afghanistan. It's a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the roots of modern terrorism.
The Guardian - British NewspaperSteve Coll's Ghost Wars is a masterful account of the long arc of history that led to September 11. It's a sobering, compelling, and ultimately necessary read.
The Economist - International MagazineGhost Wars is a riveting, detailed, and thoroughly researched account of America's failed efforts to fight terrorism in Afghanistan. It's a book that's as enlightening as it is disturbing.
Los Angeles Times - Regional NewspaperRecommendations
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