National Security Council

Written by Jonathan Milner

Definition

The president's main forum for national security and foreign policy decisions. Created by the National Security Act of 1947, it is chaired by the president and includes the vice president and the secretaries of state and defense.

Example

During a foreign crisis, the president typically meets with the National Security Council in the White House Situation Room to weigh options.

 

Questions

  1. Define the National Security Council and identify the law that created it.

  2. Identify three members of the National Security Council.

  3. Explain the role of the national security adviser.

  4. Describe how the NSC helps the president act as commander in chief.

  5. Explain why the NSC is part of the Executive Office of the President.

  6. Explain how the NSC can increase the president's power in foreign policy compared with Congress.

  7. Describe one situation in which the NSC would meet.

  8. Should Congress have more say in national security decisions? Explain.

  9. What emoji would do a good job of expressing the concept National Security Council?

  10. Translate National Security Council into plain English.

Remember!

Now, let’s commit this term to our long-term memory. On a scrap piece of paper, take 10 or 20 seconds to draw the National Security Council! Draw with symbols or stick figures if you wish. Nothing fancy. Don’t expect a masterpiece. No one else will see this but you. Look at your drawing. That’s all - now it’s downloaded into your memory. Destroy the piece of paper in a most delightful way.

Further Review

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GoPo Glossary

Jonathan Milner

Civics Maven!

https://www.gopopro.com/
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