They Shoot Spies: the untold story of the first female agents

Published on 10 February 2021
Submitted by Dr Viv Newman

In this presentation, which was delivered 'live' to an online audience, Viv Newman talks about the unusual subject of female spies who operated in the Great War. Moving beyond the stereotypes of Edith Cavell and Mata Hari this presentation explores the lives and actions of two Belgian and one French woman whose espionage made a significant contribution to the Allied Cause. One is believed to be the only woman, probably the only person, to have been decorated by France, Belgium, Britain AND Germany. 

The talk also introduces the elusive 'Fraulein Doktor' – the most important spymaster working for the German Army as well as Régina Diana, her most effective agent working in Paris and Marseille. The presentation is based on Viv's recently published 'Régina Diana: Seductress, Singer, Spy'.

They Shoot Spies - the untold story of the first female agents
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Local Branch Icon
Your local WFA branch

With around 50 branches, there may be one near you. The branch meetings are open to all.

Trenchmaper Icon
TrenchMapper

Utilise this tool to overlay historical trench maps with modern maps, enhancing battlefield research and exploration.

Standto Icon
Stand To!

Receive four issues annually of this prestigious journal, featuring deeply researched articles, book reviews and historical analysis.

Other Articles

William Wiehe COLLINS Landing At Anzac Cove, April 25Th, 1915 Lg
29 October 2026

‘A varied repertoire’: the air war at Gallipoli in RAF Staff College papers

Read more
Gemini Generated Image Oco41Yoco41Yoco4
25 October 2026

The BEF in Two Retreats: Mons 1914 and Dunkirk 1940

Read more
Platoon Commanders (1)
21 October 2026

Most of the Work, Most of the Blame, None of the Credit. Platoon commanders in WW1

Read more
Image00004
15 October 2026

What’s in a name? The Futters of Burnham Thorpe

Read more
British Cavalry In World War 1
9 October 2026

British Cavalry on the Western Front

Read more