I think the history of Operation Cyclone and the lie about the so-called Soviet invasion of Afghanistan is a fascinating starting point for understanding what the US is and what the CIA does. It was deeply radicalizing for me and I still find so many events and people that connect to it, but the history is almost unknown and rarely discussed. It’s amazing how a little land reform in a relatively remote place can trigger an insane chain of events and shockwaves we’re still experiencing.