35 Facts About E Howard Hunt

Who Was E. Howard Hunt?

E. Howard Hunt was a significant figure in American history, known for his involvement in various covert operations and political scandals. His life was filled with intrigue, espionage, and controversy. Here are some fascinating facts about him.

1. E. Howard Hunt was born on October 9, 1918, in Hamburg, New York. His full name was Everette Howard Hunt Jr.

2. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, where he gained experience that would later prove valuable in his espionage career.

3. Hunt joined the CIA in 1949, becoming one of its earliest members. He was involved in numerous covert operations during the Cold War.

4. He played a role in the 1954 Guatemalan coup, which was orchestrated by the CIA to overthrow President Jacobo Árbenz.

5. Hunt was also involved in the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961, a failed attempt by Cuban exiles to overthrow Fidel Castro.

6. He wrote several spy novels under pseudonyms such as Robert Dietrich and Gordon Davis. His writing often drew from his own experiences in espionage.

7. Hunt's most infamous role was as one of the Watergate burglars. He was part of the team that broke into the Democratic National Committee headquarters in 1972.

8. He was convicted of burglary, conspiracy, and wiretapping for his role in the Watergate scandal and served 33 months in prison.

9. Hunt's wife, Dorothy, died in a plane crash in 1972. She was carrying a large sum of money, leading to speculation about its origins.

10. After his release from prison, Hunt continued to write, publishing his memoir "Undercover: Memoirs of an American Secret Agent" in 1974.

Hunt's Involvement in Espionage and Covert Operations

Hunt's career in espionage and covert operations was marked by several high-profile missions and controversies. His work with the CIA and other agencies left a lasting impact on American history.

11. Hunt was part of Operation PBSUCCESS, the CIA's codename for the Guatemalan coup.

12. He helped plan the Bay of Pigs invasion, although the mission ultimately failed.

13. Hunt was involved in Operation Mongoose, a series of covert operations aimed at overthrowing Fidel Castro after the Bay of Pigs fiasco.

14. He worked on propaganda operations in Latin America, spreading anti-communist messages.

15. Hunt was known for his disguises and use of false identities during his covert missions.

16. He was a member of the White House Plumbers, a covert group established to stop or respond to the leaking of classified information.

17. Hunt's involvement in the Watergate scandal led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon.

18. He was part of the CIA's Domestic Operations Division, which was responsible for covert activities within the United States.

19. Hunt was involved in the CIA's efforts to assassinate foreign leaders, including Fidel Castro.

20. He was known for his anti-communist stance and worked tirelessly to combat the spread of communism.

Hunt's Literary Career

In addition to his work in espionage, Hunt was a prolific writer. His novels and memoirs provide a unique insight into his life and career.

21. Hunt wrote over 80 novels during his lifetime, many of which were spy thrillers.

22. His first novel, "East of Farewell," was published in 1943.

23. Hunt often used pseudonyms to publish his work, including John Baxter and David St. John.

24. His novels were known for their realistic portrayal of espionage, drawing from his own experiences.

25. Hunt's book "The Berlin Ending" was adapted into a film titled "The Kremlin Letter" in 1970.

26. He wrote a series of novels featuring the character Peter Ward, a CIA agent.

27. Hunt's memoir, "American Spy: My Secret History in the CIA, Watergate, and Beyond," was published posthumously in 2007.

28. He also wrote non-fiction books, including "Give Us This Day," which detailed his experiences in the CIA.

29. Hunt's writing was praised for its authenticity and attention to detail.

30. He continued to write until his death in 2007, leaving behind a vast body of work.

Personal Life and Legacy

Hunt's personal life was as complex and intriguing as his professional career. His legacy continues to be a subject of interest and debate.

31. Hunt married Dorothy Wetzel, a fellow CIA employee, in 1949. They had four children together.

32. His wife, Dorothy, was deeply involved in his covert activities and was known as the "CIA's First Lady."

33. Hunt's son, Saint John Hunt, has written about his father's life and legacy, providing a unique perspective on his career.

34. Hunt's involvement in the Watergate scandal has been the subject of numerous books and documentaries.

35. Despite his controversial career, Hunt is remembered as a dedicated and skilled intelligence officer who played a significant role in American history.

The Legacy of E. Howard Hunt

E. Howard Hunt's life was a whirlwind of espionage, political intrigue, and literary pursuits. From his early days in the CIA to his involvement in the Watergate scandal, Hunt's actions left an indelible mark on American history. His career wasn't just about covert operations; he also penned numerous spy novels, blending his real-life experiences with fiction. Despite his controversial legacy, Hunt's contributions to intelligence and literature can't be ignored. His story serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between government secrecy and public accountability. Whether viewed as a patriot or a rogue operative, Hunt's life offers a fascinating glimpse into the shadowy world of espionage. Understanding his journey helps us appreciate the intricate layers of history and the individuals who shape it.