Designed as an introduction to the concept and the practice in the United States of covert and special operations as tools of American presidents in conducting foreign and national security policy.

Establishing context --From revolution to World War II -- World War II -- Beginning the Cold War -- The heyday: 1953-1961 -- Challenging times: 1961-1973 -- New rules, new challenges: 1974-1981 -- Agreements and disagreements: 1981-1989 -- New presidents, new rules: 1989-2001 -- A changed game -- New president, continuing challenges.