In August 1996, investigative reporter Gary Webb published a series of three articles that shined light on a vast network of international cocaine smuggling that had both caused to crack epidemic, and was sanctioned by the CIA. Though his reporting was meticulous and factual, major newspapers engaged in a massive campaign to discredit him and his work, culminating in Webb’s blacklisting from journalism followed by a tragic end. How was the CIA involved in the crack trade, what was Dark Alliance, and why was it suppressed? Find out in this episode.

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Sources and Further Reading

Say Hello to Rick Ross: Link

Dark Alliance, Part I, America's 'crack' plague has roots in Nicaragua war: Link

Dark Alliance, Part II, Shadowy origins of 'crack' epidemic: Link

Dark Alliance, Part III, War on drugs has unequal impact on black Americans: Link

How the CIA Watched Over the Destruction of Gary Webb: Link

CIA-Contra Crack Cocaine Controversy, Chapter 2, Part I: Link

CIA Reading Room, Managing a Nightmare: CIA Public Affairs and the Drug Conspiracy Story: Link

Gary Webb: In His Own Words (2002) | CIA Cocaine Dark Alliance: Link

Freeway Rick Ross Interview About CIA Involvement: Link

Written in Pain: Link