3. The Roots of Soviet Espionage
Fears of White Russian plots and foreign collaborations led to the development of a pervasive Soviet security apparatus, including the Cheka, the first Soviet secret police organization. Established in December 1917, the Cheka was responsible for suppressing counter-revolutionary activities, fighting against sabotage, and ensuring the loyalty of the population to the new communist government. These structures mirrored ongoing obsessions with internal enemies seen in other authoritarian regimes. (britannica)
