The Cambridge Five Cold War Spy Ring: Philby, Burgess, Maclean, Blunt & Cairncross (423)

The incredible story of the five most damaging spies in British history, from their recruitment at Cambridge University to their infiltration of the government and the security services, all while successfully eluding prosecution.

I speak with Shawnna Morris the author of a new book The Cambridge Spy Ring: The Treachery of the Five Who Got Away.

We explore the backgrounds, motivations, and the intricate web of espionage that defined the lives of Kim Philby, Donald McLean, John Cairncross, Guy Burgess, and Anthony Blunt. 

The Cambridge Five's legacy is one of betrayal, loyalty, and moral ambiguity. Their actions had far-reaching consequences, not only for themselves but for the intelligence community and the political landscape of the time.

Episode extra including video interviews of the Cambridge Five here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode423/

Book Giveaway entry (until 4th Oct 2025) https://coldwarconversations.com/giveaway1/

Related episodes

• Guy Burgess and the Cambridge Spy Ring https://pod.fo/e/a5e38
• Charlotte Philby talks about her grandfather Soviet spy Kim Philby & her book “Edith & Kim” https://pod.fo/e/115bd7
• An evening with Kim Philby https://pod.fo/e/d8080

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