Published in 1962, Dan Smoot's book is less a traditional story and more of a detailed argument. Smoot, who worked for the FBI and later had his own conservative radio program, lays out his case that America's democratic system was being subtly overridden by what he called an 'Invisible Government.'

The Story

Smoot doesn't write about spies or covert ops. Instead, he focuses on public-facing organizations like the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), the Rockefeller Foundation, and other influential think tanks. His central claim is that a small, interconnected group of people within these private institutions held immense power. He argues they used their positions to guide U.S. foreign and domestic policy toward globalist goals—like the United Nations and foreign aid—that he felt undermined American sovereignty and the Constitution. The book names names, traces memberships, and presents a web of connections to support his thesis that elected officials were often just following a script written by this unelected network.

Why You Should Read It

Whether you agree with Smoot's conclusions or not, the book is a fascinating time capsule of a specific kind of American political fear. Reading it today is striking because so many of the anxieties he describes—about elitism, unaccountable power, and a disconnect between Washington and the rest of the country—still resonate loudly. It forces you to think critically about where influence really comes from. Is policy driven by public will, expert consensus, or the interests of a powerful few? The book doesn't offer easy answers, but it asks persistent questions. His perspective is firmly from the anti-establishment right of his era, which provides crucial context for understanding some modern political movements.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for readers interested in the roots of modern conspiracy culture, American political history, or critiques of power from the right. It's not a balanced, neutral study; it's a polemic, a product of its time. You'll likely find parts of it provocative and other parts dated. But if you want to understand a foundational text that influenced decades of conservative and libertarian thought about 'the establishment,' this is essential reading. Approach it not as absolute truth, but as a key to understanding a powerful and enduring political narrative.