What policy shifts followed the 9/11 attacks in the early 2000s?

• A. Repeal of the Patriot Act
• B. Global War on Terror, wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and increased homeland security measures
• C. Isolationist foreign policy
• D. Decrease in military spending

Answer: (B)

After the 9/11 attacks, the United States shifted toward a proactive counterterrorism approach that reshaped both foreign and domestic policy. The Global War on Terror framed U.S. actions as a broad effort to disrupt and defeat terrorist networks worldwide, which led to military campaigns abroad, starting with Afghanistan to remove the Taliban and pursue Al-Qaeda, and later including Iraq as part of expanding security measures. At home, security and intelligence grew dramatically: borders and airports were tightened, more surveillance and information sharing were put in place, and the Department of Homeland Security was created in 2003 to coordinate these efforts. This combination shows a move toward active intervention abroad and stronger security at home. The Patriot Act was not repealed; it was extended and expanded to address new threats. The shift was not toward isolationism, and military spending increased to support these added security measures.