By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Tim Weiner's "Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA" is an ambitious endeavor that seeks to chronicle the tumultuous history of the Central Intelligence Agency from its inception post-World War II through the early 21st century. While the book has garnered significant attention and accolades, including the 2007 National Book Award for Nonfiction, ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legacy_of_Ashes_%28book%29?utm_source=openai)) it is imperative to approach its content with a discerning eye.

Weiner's narrative is undeniably comprehensive, drawing upon an extensive array of declassified documents and interviews with former CIA officials. This meticulous research provides readers with a detailed account of the agency's operations, both overt and covert. However, the book's overarching tone is one of relentless criticism, painting the CIA as an organization plagued by incompetence and failure. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/tim-weiner/legacy-of-ashes/?utm_source=openai))

Such a portrayal has not gone unchallenged. Critics, including CIA historian Nicholas Dujmovic, have pointed out numerous factual inaccuracies and a pervasive bias throughout the text. Dujmovic asserts that Weiner's work is "not the definitive history of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) that it purports to be," highlighting the author's selective use of sources and a tendency to overlook the agency's successes. ([bookbrowse.com](https://www.bookbrowse.com/reviews/index.cfm/book_number/2067/legacy-of-ashes?utm_source=openai))

Furthermore, the book's structure has been a point of contention. Some readers have found the rapid transitions between events and the lack of contextual background to be disorienting. This fragmented approach can make it challenging to grasp the broader implications of the CIA's actions and policies. ([goodreads.com](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8135743-legacy-of-ashes?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, while "Legacy of Ashes" offers a detailed examination of the CIA's history, its pervasive negativity and structural shortcomings undermine its credibility as an objective account. Readers seeking a balanced understanding of the agency's past should approach this work with caution and consider consulting additional sources to gain a more nuanced perspective.

Final Recommendation: Read with caution.

Recommendation: Read with caution.

written on: 7/31/2025