Sure the names of most spies aren't common knowledge, but History has a fascinating list of spies whose names you don't recognize, but probably should learn. Nancy Wake, at left, leads off the list for her daring exploits in WWII.
Read more about Nancy and the rest at the link.
http://www.history.com/news/2011/12/01/10-spies-who-arent-household-names/
Until she developed a reputation as the elusive “White Mouse,” as her enemies dubbed her, she brazenly flirted with German soldiers to waltz through checkpoints. In 1943, aware that her hunters were finally closing in, Wake fled to Spain and later to Britain, where she convinced special agents to train her as a spy and guerilla operative. In April 1944 she parachuted into France to coordinate attacks on German troops and installations prior to the D-Day invasion, leading a band of 7,000 resistance fighters.
Read more about Nancy and the rest at the link.
http://www.history.com/news/2011/12/01/10-spies-who-arent-household-names/