It may be difficult for Americans to comprehend the frame of mind of the men who started the CIA's program to manipulate human behavior. CIA leaders were certain the Commies were doing it, and they were determined to find a defense with Project Bluebird (1950), then Artichoke, then MKULTRA. Each code name broadened their sweep. They used drugs, torture and brainwashing techniques An internal memo said "Precautions must be taken to conceal these activities from the American public." They wanted to kill people and destroy the will to live. They also wanted to control all of us, the way we think, the way we talk to each other.