The iconic bullwhip and hat used by Indiana Jones. Photo by Gary Stewart / CC BY 3.0.
During World War II, the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), a precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), recruited a unique group of individuals whose skills went beyond traditional espionage. Among them were American archaeologists, whose expertise in ancient cultures, languages, and terrains made them invaluable assets in the fight against the Axis powers. These real-life Indiana Joneses embarked on daring missions, gathering intelligence, conducting covert operations, and preserving cultural heritage in war-torn regions. Their adventures, much like those of the fictional archaeologist, were filled with danger, intrigue, and a deep sense of purpose, as they used their knowledge to outwit the enemy and protect the treasures of the past.
Archaeologists in the OSS
The OSS recognized the unique skills that archaeologists possessed, such as their ability to analyze artifacts, understand ancient languages, and navigate difficult terrains. Many archaeologists were recruited from academic institutions and underwent rigorous training in espionage techniques, cryptography, and survival skills.
Archaeologists were deployed to various theaters of war, including Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Their deep knowledge of local cultures and languages made them invaluable in gathering intelligence. They often worked undercover, posing as scholars or diplomats, to collect information on enemy movements, fortifications, and supply lines.
In addition to intelligence gathering, archaeologists participated in covert operations. They used their skills in excavation and artifact analysis to locate hidden enemy installations and supply caches. Some archaeologists were involved in sabotage missions, disrupting enemy infrastructure and supply chains.
One of the lesser-known roles of archaeologists in the OSS was the preservation of cultural heritage. As the war-ravaged historic sites and artifacts, archaeologists worked to protect and document these treasures. They collaborated with local authorities and resistance groups to safeguard cultural heritage from destruction and looting.
Notable Examples
Carleton Coon
Dr. Carleton Stevens Coon was an American anthropologist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania. He earned his Ph.D. in anthropology from Harvard University in 1928. His doctoral thesis focused on the Berbers of North Africa, and he went on to have a distinguished career in anthropology and archaeology. During World War II, Coon served as an agent for the OSS, where he used his anthropological fieldwork as a cover for intelligence operations. He was involved in arms-smuggling operations in German-occupied Morocco and gathered valuable intelligence that contributed to the success of Allied campaigns in the region. Coon was awarded the Legion of Merit for his wartime efforts.
Jack Caskey
Dr. John “Jack” Langdon Caskey was an American archaeologist and professor at the University of Cincinnati. He earned his Ph.D. from Yale University In classical archaeology from Yale University in 1939. He had a distinguished career in archaeology, particularly known for his work at the site of Ayia Irini on the island of Kea in Greece. During World War II, he served in the OSS and was involved in various intelligence operations in Greece and Turkey. One of his notable contributions was orchestrating the daring rescue of a young female double agent in Turkey, which was a significant achievement in the intelligence community. Caskey’s work in gathering critical information and supporting Allied efforts was instrumental in the success of OSS operations in the region
Legacy and Impact
The contributions of American archaeologists in the OSS had a lasting impact on both the field of archaeology and the broader intelligence community. Their work during the war demonstrated the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and highlighted the importance of cultural understanding in intelligence operations. Many of these archaeologists continued to influence the field after the war, shaping the future of archaeological research and cultural preservation.
Final Thoughts
In summary, American archaeologists with the OSS played vital roles in intelligence gathering, covert operations, and cultural preservation during World War II. Their unique skills and expertise significantly contributed to the success of Allied efforts and left a lasting legacy in both archaeology and intelligence.
Resources
Central Intelligence Agency
CIA.gov
USASOC OSS Website (Official US Army Website)
www.soc.mil/OSS/index.html
The OSS Society
OSSSociety org