20 Famous Betrayals That Changed the World Forever
Here's a compelling look at some of the most infamous betrayals in history that left lasting marks on nations, leaders, and movements.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
History is influenced by treachery and dishonesty in addition to heroes and conquerors. These fabled betrayals changed the course of empires, sparked conflicts, and changed political environments. Every instance of backstabbing mentioned here changed the course of history in ways that are still felt today.
1. Judas Iscariot Betrays Jesus Christ (c. 33 AD)
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In one of history’s most iconic betrayals, Judas sold out Jesus for 30 silver coins. His act led directly to the crucifixion, forming a central event in Christian theology.
2. Brutus Stabs Julius Caesar (44 BC)
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Despite a close relationship with Caesar, Brutus joined the conspirators and delivered one of the fatal blows. The infamous “Et tu, Brute?” symbolizes ultimate betrayal.
3. Benedict Arnold Turns on the American Revolution (1780)
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Once a celebrated general, Arnold plotted to surrender West Point to the British. Disillusioned with leadership and craving recognition, he switched sides. His name became a byword for treason in America.
4. Ephialtes of Trachis Betrays the Spartans (480 BC)
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Ephialtes exposed a secret path to the Persians at Thermopylae. This led to the Spartans’ defeat during their legendary last stand.
5. Kim Philby Spies for the Soviets (Cold War)
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A top British intelligence officer, Philby fed secrets to the USSR for decades. His deception devastated Western operations.
6. Vidkun Quisling Collaborates with the Nazis (1940)
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A Norwegian politician, Quisling staged a coup and supported Nazi occupation. His name became globally synonymous with treachery.
7. Mir Jafar Betrays Siraj ud-Daulah at Plassey (1757)
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During the Battle of Plassey, Jafar secretly allied with the British East India Company. His betrayal led to the British conquest of Bengal.
8. Aldrich Ames Sells CIA Secrets to USSR (1985)
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Ames, a high-ranking CIA officer, leaked critical information to the KGB. His treachery led to the deaths of multiple American assets. Motivated by money, his betrayal was devastating to U.S. intelligence.
9. Wang Jingwei Sides with Imperial Japan (1940s)
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Once a revolutionary hero, Wang allied with Japan during WWII. He led a puppet regime in occupied China. His actions divided the Chinese resistance and prolonged suffering.
10. Guy Fawkes Betrays England in the Gunpowder Plot (1605)
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Fawkes planned to blow up Parliament and assassinate King James I. Caught before lighting the fuse, his plot was foiled. Though seen as a rebel by some, many viewed his act as high treason.
11. Robert Hanssen Spies for Russia (1985–2001)
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wikimedia Commons
FBI agent Hanssen passed secrets to Soviet and Russian intelligence for over 20 years. His espionage is considered among the most damaging in U.S. history.
12. Andrei Vlasov Joins Nazi Germany (WWII)
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A Soviet general, Vlasov defected to fight alongside the Nazis. He formed the Russian Liberation Army to battle Stalin’s forces.
13. Tokyo Rose Broadcasts Propaganda (WWII)
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Iva Toguri, dubbed “Tokyo Rose,” broadcast demoralizing propaganda to Allied troops. Though her role was exaggerated, her voice became infamous.
14. Charles Van Doren Cheats on “Twenty-One” (1950s)
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The charming academic won big on a quiz show — only later to confess it was rigged. His deceit shattered public trust in television.
15. General Benedict Biscop Defects in Mercia (7th Century)
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An Anglo-Saxon noble, Biscop abandoned Northumbria to side with Mercia during a critical conflict. His sudden switch helped his new allies win a decisive battle.
16. Edward Snowden Leaks NSA Documents (2013)
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A former contractor, Snowden revealed global surveillance programs run by the NSA. Some see him as a whistleblower; others see him as a traitor. His disclosures sparked a worldwide debate on privacy.
17. Lavrentiy Beria Betrays Fellow Soviets (Stalin Era)
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Stalin’s secret police chief, Beria orchestrated purges of his rivals. After Stalin’s death, Beria tried to seize power. His betrayal of allies led to his downfall.
18. Mata Hari Spies During WWI (1917)
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The exotic dancer turned double agent, allegedly feeding secrets to Germany. Captured by the French, she was executed by firing squad.
19. Alcibiades Switches Sides in the Peloponnesian War (5th Century BC)
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This charismatic Athenian general defected to Sparta, then to Persia, and then back to Athens. His betrayals were driven by personal ambition, not loyalty.
20. Herta Oberheuser Abuses Her Role as a Doctor (Nazi Germany)
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A physician at Ravensbrück, she participated in horrific experiments on women. Her betrayal of medical ethics shocked the world. She was convicted at the Nuremberg Trials.