Ep 6. Trojan horse

In episode 6 of Spy Wars With Damian Lewis, titled "Trojan Horse," viewers are taken back to 1985 and the Iran-Contra affair. This episode delves into the alleged involvement of the US government in illegal arms deals with Iran, and how the CIA helped facilitate the transport of weapons to Nicaragua.

Lewis begins by introducing us to Oliver North, a Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel and National Security Council staff member, who played a key role in the Iran-Contra scandal. We learn how he was instrumental in setting up a secret network of arms dealers, pilots, and operatives to help transport weapons to the Contras in Nicaragua.

However, things take a dark turn when one of North's operatives, Eugene Hasenfus, is shot down over Nicaragua and taken into custody by the Sandinistas. Hasenfus was found to be carrying a US passport, as well as documents that implicated North and the CIA in the illegal arms trade.

The episode then transitions to the story of Charles Dennison, an American businessman who was caught up in the Iran-Contra scandal. Dennison was approached by the CIA and asked to facilitate the transport of weapons to Iran. He was promised immunity from prosecution, but like Hasenfus, he found himself in a difficult situation when the deal went wrong.

Dennison was arrested in Nicaragua along with two of his colleagues and accused of being a CIA spy. After months of imprisonment and interrogation, Dennison was eventually released and returned to the US. However, he found himself under investigation by the FBI and faced prosecution for his role in the Iran-Contra affair.

The episode also explores the broader implications of the Iran-Contra scandal, including the damage it caused to US foreign policy and the erosion of public trust in government. We hear from various experts and analysts, who provide context and perspective on the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and interests that drove the illegal arms trade.

Overall, "Trojan Horse" is a fascinating look at a pivotal moment in US history, and how the actions of a few individuals and agencies had far-reaching consequences. The episode is well-paced, informative, and engaging, and does an excellent job of synthesizing complex material into a cohesive narrative. Whether you're a history buff, a political junkie, or just a fan of good storytelling, this episode is well worth watching.