Al Qaeda and Affiliates: Historical Perspective, Global Presence, and Implications for U.S. Policy
Crissy L Rogers
Miller-Motte Technical College
Risk Management SI200
Mr. Brian Peters

1. Rollins, J. (2011). Al Qaeda and Affiliates: Historical Perspective, Global Presence, and Implications for U.S. Policy. Ft. Belvoir: Defense Technical Information Center.
Summary
According to John Rollins, specialist in terrorism and national security, Al Qaeda today is very different than the one that was portrayed directly after the 9/11 attacks. Then, they were considered an organization of veterans of the Afghan insurgency against the Soviet Union, with their leadership made up of majority Egyptians, who not only approved attacks but were also the ones who organized them. Today, it has transformed into global network, one who has independent cells and associates in over 70 countries. Modern technologies, such as the internet, allow these cells and associates to be radicalized by those who have traveled for indoctrination and training. Their goal is to serve as a forefront for stimulating Muslims and others to join a jihadi movement, claiming that they will be helping to defend and purify Islam with violent actions. (2011)
Critical Analysis Overall, Al Qaeda leaders have displayed a reasonable readiness to adapt the strategic and tactical content of their statements to changing circumstances. Although Bin Laden's self-professed goal is to stimulate, and mobilize the Islamic nation until it reaches an ignition point, Bin Laden's statements and Al Qaeda's attacks largely have failed to effectively mobilize widespread Muslim support for their agenda thus far. Since 2001, however, public opinion and media monitoring indicate that significant frustration with the United States and its foreign policy has grown considerably within many Muslim societies. In light of