Elizabeth Bentley

Elizabeth Bentley was a former Soviet spy and a significant figure in Cold War espionage history. Initially working as a courier for Soviet intelligence, she later defected in 1945, exposing the extensive spy networks in the United States. Her testimonies implicated numerous Americans in spying for the Soviet Union, contributing to heightened fears of communist infiltration during the era. Bentley’s revelations led to investigations and trials related to espionage, impacting U.S. national security policies. Her switching sides made her a controversial figure, illustrating the complex dynamics of espionage, loyalty, and the tense atmosphere of Cold War politics.