Since the mid-nineteenth century, the main drivers of clandestine activity have been wars, crime, and international espionage. The need to obtain and pass along secret information exists so that one group can gain dominance over another, whether through victory in conflicts, seizure of land, or stealing money. Spies may be a constant, but so are the code breakers, those hardworking heroes who use their intelligence and drive to overcome whatever challenges arise from enemies or thieves. This comprehensive collection of New York Times coverage gives a behind-the-scenes look at the high stakes drama created by dangerous secrets, with media literacy terms and questions included to further draw readers in.