“Private Eyes and Ears –The Emergence of Covert Surveillance in America,” ASIS NSW, May 29, 2012.

Sydney University historian, Stephen Robertson will discuss the emergence of covert surveillance in America between the Civil War and the end of the Second World War. In particular, Associate Professor Robertson will discuss the diverse roles of private investigators and their significant growth in the early part of the 20th century. With at least 275 private detective agencies in America in 1914, covert surveillance resulted in many people being watched at work, during their leisure, and even in their beds. Having scoured archives and reviewed reports prepared by these early private investigators, Associate Professor Robertson has acquired considerable insight into the work of private investigators and private investigation companies. Come and hear the quirky, interesting and entertaining anecdotes from this era and consider their relevance to contemporary security and surveillance activities.

In this session, Stephen will be in conversation with Garner Clancey. Garner is the Deputy Director of the Sydney Institute of Criminology (University of Sydney).