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9/11
A group of Islamic activists hijack 4 commercial jetliners and launch an attack on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. The attack kills hundreds and sparks a public outcry at terrorism in the United States. Shortly afterwards, George Bush declares a War on Terror. -
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Homeland Security Events
A list of events that are important to the history of the Department of Homeland Security. -
Guantanamo Bay Prison opens
Guantanamo Bay Prison, built to contain prisoners of war, opens its gates, causing much controversy. Cruel treatment and harsh conditions for foreign prisoners lead to a public outcry against the prison remaining open and sponsored by the United States government. -
The first National Strategy for Homeland Security is released.
The first National Strategy for Homeland Security sets the framework for the creation of the DHS and all resulting actions taken against terrorism and domestic threats. -
The DHS is created
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is created to defend America against terrorism and domestic threats in major cities and on borders. It it based off of the first National Strategy for Homeland Security. -
The DHS begins operation.
On March 1, 2003, the Department of Homeland Security officially opens its doors and commences operation. -
9/11 final commission report released.
The 9/11 commuission report summarizes and explains the events of the 9/11 attacks. However, its reports are suspected to be false by the public, resulting in a wave of government mistrust and consipiracy theories. -
Congress passed the SAFE port act.
The SAFE port act is intended to maintain trade and protect American shipping lanes from terrorist attacks. Its passing marks another step in Congress's tightening of security measures. -
9/11 commission recommendations are implemented; NSA wiretapping revealed
Additional security measures and system recommended by the 9/11 commission reports are implemented in an effort to protect against a similar incident. In addition, the NSA is discovered wiretapping phones and monitoring emails, causing massive controversy over the DHS's actions. -
Updated Homeland Security Strategy released.
The updated Homeland Security Strategy draws upon America's increased knowledge of terrorist threats to better maintain the country's security. -
Aerial drones made legal by Congress.
Congress reforms the FAA (Federal Aviation Act) of 1958, legalizing the use of aerial drones in civilian airspaces. This action is seen by many as another invasion of privacy from the DHS. -
Obama’s speech clarifying the intentions of the NSA
In his speech, President Barrack Obama acknowledges that the NSA does posess the means to invade peope's privacy if they wanted to, thus further deepening public paranoia towards the DHS. In addition, he calls to attention recent federal developments, such as the information leaks of Edward Snowden and the legalization of aeiral drones by Congress.
