Donald Newton Wilber was an American writer and spy, renowned for his pivotal role in orchestrating Operation Ajax, a coup that overthrew Iran's democratically elected government. His work centered on the strategic interests of global powers, particularly during the tumultuous post-World War II era. Beyond his intelligence activities, Wilber also authored histories and travelogues focusing on Iran, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka, establishing himself as an authority on ancient Persia.
The book offers a comprehensive overview of Iran's history, arts, languages, and religions, spanning from 4000 B.C. to modern times. The Ninth Edition features updated statistics and current information, making it a valuable resource for understanding the country's cultural and historical evolution.
This Clandestine History of Operation Ajax to overthrow the Prime Minister of Iran was written for the US Central Intelligence Agency in March 1954. It gives a unique insight into the extent to which the CIA and its British ally went in pursuit of their aim to remove Iran's elected head of government in 1952-53.