The MI5 exhibition at the National Archives features key espionage artefacts including a 110-year-old lemon used by a German spy, compact c spy tools, and records of the agency’s historical successes and failures. It reflects MI5’s evolution, changing attitudes towards women, and an increasing transparency in their operations.
The MI5 exhibition at the National Archives in London showcases intriguing espionage artifacts, including a 110-year-old desiccated lemon linked to a significant spy case in World War I. This lemon was used by German spy Karl Muller to write invisible ink letters that revealed British troop movements. Muller was executed in 1915, but MI5 deceived his handlers into funding their operations posthumously.
The exhibition features various items, such as compact spy cameras, a talcum powder tin containing microdots, and remnants from Soviet spy Guy Burgess. It presents a narrative of the agency’s evolution since its establishment in 1909 with only two officers to its current operations.
Visitors will find records from WWII showcasing MI5’s successes in misinformation against Nazi Germany and reflections on failed espionage cases, such as the Cambridge Spies who leaked secrets to the Soviet Union. Notably, a 1963 confession from Kim Philby highlights the agency’s historical challenges encountering treachery within its ranks.
Attitudes toward women in espionage are also explored, with a 1945 report questioning their capability as agents. The curator noted that men were more frequently responsible for breaches of discretion. The exhibition admits MI5 previously underestimated fascist threats and misallocated focus toward the Communist Party of Great Britain.
Also presented are modern artifacts like a mortar shell fired at 10 Downing Street in 1991, reflecting MI5’s current focus on counterterrorism. The agency has gradually released records to the public since 1997, marking a significant shift in transparency regarding its operations.
The exhibition titled “MI5: Official Secrets” opens on Saturday and is available until September 28 at the National Archives without any admission fee.
The MI5 exhibition offers a unique glimpse into Britain’s intelligence history, showcasing artefacts from key events and figures that shaped national security. It highlights both triumphs and failures while revealing evolving perspectives, particularly related to gender roles in espionage. The gradual increase in transparency signifies a continued shift towards openness in the agency’s history, with significant public interest generated by these revelations.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca