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Betrayed Trust: The Spies Within
In the world of spies and intelligence, two names stand out - Aldrich Ames and Robert Hanssen, the real-life Aldrich and Bess. Both were trusted American intelligence officers, tasked with safeguarding their country's secrets. However, they chose a different path, betraying their trust to become spies for the Soviet Union. Aldrich Ames, a CIA officer, was lured by money and luxury. He began his treasonous path in 1985, selling vital information to the Soviets. Robert Hanssen, an FBI agent, started his spying career a bit earlier, in 1979. Unlike Ames, Hanssen's motivation was more complex - a cocktail of ego, resentment, and a desire for excitement. Their actions had devastating effects on American intelligence. As a result of Ames' betrayal, the CIA lost at least ten Soviet sources, some of whom were executed. Hanssen's actions compromised numerous top-secret operations and cost the U.S. millions. Yet, their treason didn't last forever. Ames was arrested in 1994, and Hanssen was apprehended in 2001. Their stories serve as poignant reminders of the importance of loyalty and the severe consequences of betrayal.
Question 1
Who was Aldrich Ames?
A CIA officer who betrayed his country
An FBI agent who never committed treason
A loyal soldier in the American army
A Soviet spy who infiltrated the CIA
A Hollywood actor
Question 2
What was the motivation behind Robert Hanssen's actions?
He was unhappy with his salary
He wanted to live a life of luxury
He was blackmailed by the Soviets
A mixture of ego, resentment, and a desire for excitement
He was brainwashed by the Soviets
Question 3
What does the term 'treasonous' mean in the context of this passage?
Loyal
Heroic
Betraying one's country
Respectable
Patriotic
Question 4
What consequences did Ames' and Hanssen's actions have on American intelligence?
No significant consequences
The CIA commended them for their bravery
They strengthened American intelligence
They compromised top-secret operations and cost the U.S. millions of dollars
Their actions led to the U.S. winning the Cold War
Question 5
True or False: Both Aldrich Ames and Robert Hanssen were arrested for their treason.
True
False
Not mentioned in the passage
Not relevant to the topic
Cannot be determined
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