Historian unpacks 9/11’s first 17 minutes
Historian Garrett Graff discusses the first 17 minutes of the September 11th attacks, noting that the US did not fully realize it was under attack until the second plane crashed at 9:03 AM. The attacks led to a major reorganization of the US security apparatus and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, with the guiding principle of "never again" shaping the global war on terror.
The events of 9/11 fundamentally reshaped US national security policy and government structure, leading to the creation of new agencies and the initiation of long-term military and foreign policy engagements.
The episode also covers President George W. Bush's recollection of being informed of the attacks, the emergence of 9/11 conspiracy theories within hours of the attacks, and the role of social media in amplifying misinformation.
SEPTEMBER 11 GARRETT GRAFF GEORGE W. BUSH DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY