Section I: Introduction and Context: Has the United States Government Kept Secrets from Its Citizens? Conspiracy theories have been posed throughout our nation's history. A conspiracy theory is defined as “a theory that explains an event as the result of a plot by a secret group or organization; the belief that a particular inexplicable event was caused by such a group” (Dictionary). Is this a recurring theme in the history of the US government? Many people believe that our government has intentionally fabricated or withheld information regarding historical events; the moon landing was simulated, soldiers were assassinated at Pearl Harbor, who really shot President Kennedy? On the other hand, there are those who firmly believe that the United States government has not deceived and does not want to deceive its citizens. The novel Real Enemies by Kathryn S. Olmsted enlightens readers about major political and historical events in the United States. Section II: Author's Background: Kathryn S. Olmsted, author of the book Real Enemies, is an expert historian. Olmsted currently heads the history department at UC Davis. He has taught at UC Davis since 2003 and was a lecturer at UC Davis from 1993 to 2001 (Department of History). Kathryn S. Olmsted also has an extensive background in educational studies; a bachelor's degree in history from Stanford University, a master's degree in history from UC Davis, and received his Ph.D. in history from UC Davis (Department of History). Olmsted has written several articles for many highly respected publications; the topics have consistently been the history of the United States and the secrets of its government (Department of History). Real Enemies is his third book about conspiracies in US history. Other books he wrote... middle of paper... to believe in their theories the same way fanatics believe in their religion; nothing can change his mind” (Olmsted, Kathryn S. 11). This statement agrees with David Jackson's quote that once an idea has been formed and presented, the idea remains imprinted in the minds of those who believe in it and is difficult to change. Section V: Conclusion: Olmsted has presented research that offers the reader a new vision of history. Real Enemies is a compelling book that answers a question; How far will our government, a political party, a politician or an influential person go to advance their agenda? This expert historian sheds light on this dark topic in our country's political history. Olmsted examined events from World War I to 9/11 with examples and facts from well-known and reliable sources. He presented an argument showing how real evidence has influenced conspiracy thoughts over the years.