Plots and Paranoia

The book, first published in 1992, delves beneath the myths and deceptions surrounding the secret service to reveal the true nature and significance of covert political policing in Britain, from the 'spies and bloodites' of the eighteenth century to today's MI5. This title will be of interest to students of modern history and politics.

Bernard Porter

Preface; Chapter 1 Sly and subtil fellowes (4000 BC to AD 1790); Chapter 2 The most powerful means of observation (1790-1805); Chapter 3 Spies and bloodites! (1805-25); Chapter 4 Mild and paternal government (1825-50); Chapter 5 No police over opinion (1850-80); Chapter 6 A permanent organization to detect and control (1880-1910); Chapter 7 A holy alliance against this midnight terror (1910-20); Chapter 8 Dangers ahead (1920-40); Chapter 9 Dazzled and confused (1940-70); Chapter 10 Dungeons and dragons (1970-88); Epilogue;