A comprehensive analysis of how America's national security strategies and the management of terrorism activities evolved. Prior to September 11, 2001 most terrorism discussions were held by a small group of people behind locked doors. Policies were written but never codified into law, programs were started and not completed and information sharing was not part of the plan. McDonnell recommended new legislation that would require counterterrorism programs move from the federal realm to a national program that includes governors and local law enforcement. The work predates the creation of the Department of Homeland Security and provides the reader an opportunity to understand the challenges facing America's leaders as they cope with the threat of domestic terrorism.