The WikiLeaks Files

The WikiLeaks Files presents an analysis of the United States diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks, examining their significance and implications for international relations. The book combines expert analysis with selections from the actual cables to document U.S. foreign policy actions across multiple regions and decades. Contributors examine cables related to key geographic areas including Latin America, the Middle East, Russia, and East Asia. The text reveals patterns in U.S. diplomatic strategy, military interventions, and economic policies through the internal communications of State Department officials. The book includes an introduction by Julian Assange that explains WikiLeaks' mission and methodology in publishing classified documents. Supporting essays from academics and journalists provide context for understanding the broader impacts of the cable releases on journalism, transparency, and public knowledge of government operations. At its core, The WikiLeaks Files raises questions about power, secrecy, and the relationship between governments and citizens in the digital age. The book serves as both a historical document and an examination of how classified information releases can reshape public understanding of international relations.

Readers value the book's detailed documentation of US diplomatic cables and foreign policy decisions. Multiple reviewers noted the book provides context missing from news coverage of the original WikiLeaks releases. Positives from reviews: - Thorough examination of US military interventions - Clear explanations of complex diplomatic relationships - Strong sourcing and references - Region-by-region analysis format Common criticisms: - Dense academic writing style - Uneven quality between different chapter authors - Focus on criticism of US could seem one-sided - Some sections get repetitive Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (276 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (98 ratings) One reader on Goodreads wrote: "The academic tone makes it less accessible but adds credibility." An Amazon reviewer noted: "Worth reading for the primary sources alone, even if you disagree with the authors' interpretations." Several reviews mention the book works better as a reference text than a cover-to-cover read.

No Place to Hide by Glenn Greenwald This inside account of the Edward Snowden NSA leaks documents the surveillance state and press freedom in the digital age.

The Pentagon Papers by Daniel Ellsberg A firsthand account from the military analyst who leaked classified Vietnam War documents reveals the decision-making processes behind US military interventions.

Permanent Record by Edward Snowden The NSA whistleblower details the creation of the US mass surveillance system and his decision to expose it to the public.

The Secret State by Peter Hennessy This examination of British intelligence services exposes the mechanisms of state secrecy and classified information systems.

When Google Met WikiLeaks by Julian Assange This transcript of discussions between Julian Assange and Google executives explores the intersection of technology, media, and government power.

🔍 The book features a foreword by Julian Assange written while he was living under asylum in London's Ecuadorian Embassy 📚 Rather than a single narrative, the book is a collection of essays by different experts analyzing various WikiLeaks diplomatic cables by region 🌐 The book reveals that in 2009, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton ordered U.S. diplomats to spy on UN officials, including collecting biometric data and passwords ⚖️ The publication faced significant legal challenges, with several major retailers including Amazon temporarily refusing to sell or distribute it 🗃️ The source material for the book comes from over 250,000 U.S. diplomatic cables, which at the time was the largest intelligence leak in history