James Olson (author)

James Olson (1944-2024) was an American author, professor, and historian specializing in U.S. intelligence history and Cold War espionage. He was a distinguished professor emeritus of history at Sam Houston State University, where he taught courses on the Cold War, U.S. intelligence, and 20th-century American history.

Olson was a prolific writer, publishing numerous books and articles on intelligence and espionage. His works are notable for their meticulous research, engaging narrative style, and accessibility to both academic and general audiences.

Key Works:

• Fair Play: The Moral Dilemmas of Spying (2006) Explores the ethical challenges faced by intelligence operatives.

• CIA's Greatest Covert Operations: From World War II to the Present (2015) Provides an overview of notable CIA covert actions throughout history.

• Where the Domino Fell: America and Vietnam, 1945 to 1995 (2009) A comprehensive history of the Vietnam War and U.S. involvement.

• A History of American Espionage (2004) A broad survey of U.S. espionage activities from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

• Winning the Cold War: Strategic Intent, Economic Warfare, and the Triumph of American Ideals (2004) Argues for the importance of economic warfare in the U.S. victory in the Cold War.

Olson frequently appeared as a commentator on television and radio programs, offering expert analysis on intelligence-related topics. His contributions helped to shape public understanding of the role and impact of intelligence in American history and foreign policy.