The Spy Who The Spy Who Dressed the Queen | The Royal Family's spy links | 4
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May 13, 2025 Richard Aldrich and Rory Cormac, esteemed scholars and co-authors of 'The Secret Royals', explore the British royal family's intriguing ties to espionage. They discuss how Queen Victoria and Elizabeth II operated as intelligence handlers, accessing sensitive information and influencing national security. The conversation touches on spies visiting Buckingham Palace, Princess Diana's complex relationship with the intelligence community, and how modern royals like King Charles engage with secret services today. Secrets steeped in history reveal a legacy of royal intrigue.
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Queen's Message Affected Shah
- A message to the Shah of Iran to stay was mistakenly signed by the Queen instead of the ship Queen Elizabeth.
- The message's royal origin persuaded the Shah to stay, influencing the 1953 coup indirectly.
Queen's Dark Humor in Intelligence
- A memoir diary entry, removed from publication, revealed the Queen jokingly suggested slipping poison in a hostile leader's coffee.
- This shows the hidden, darker side of royal involvement in intelligence and covert discussions.
Elizabeth I's Spy Service Legacy
- Elizabeth I created the first modern British spy service including code-breaking, deception, and espionage.
- Her intelligence network was instrumental in unraveling plots like that of Mary Queen of Scots.
