When Was Homeland Security Created & for What?

The Department of Homeland Security employs over 230,000 people.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is an umbrella organization aimed at coordinating and consolidating the efforts of the various departments responsible for the national security of the United States.

History

Although the creation of a National Homeland Security Agency was first recommended in February 2001, by the U.S. Commission on National Security/21st Century, no action was taken at the time. The terrorist attack of 9/11 added a greater urgency to security issues, and the Department was established by executive proclamation, by President George W. Bush on October 8, 2001.

Function and Purpose

The DHS is tasked with coordinating the efforts of the executive branch of the federal government, state and local governments, and private entities to "ensure the adequacy of the national strategy for detecting, preparing for, preventing, protecting against, responding to, and recovering from terrorist threats or attacks within the United States and shall periodically review and coordinate revisions to that strategy as necessary."

The Department's Mission Today

The DHS released a strategic plan in 2008, which detailed a "unified national mission" to "prevent and deter" terrorist attacks and "protect against and respond to threats and hazards to the nation, securing its borders, while welcoming lawful immigrants, visitors, and trade."

References

• Department of Homeland Security: A Brief Documentary History of DHS
• Department of Homeland Security: Strategic Plan 2008
• Department of Homeland Security