What if a major earthquake struck the west coast of North America, resulting in thousands of deaths, widespread destruction, and a fractured economy? How would the Canadian government respond when many forces are already deployed abroad? Or consider a terrorist attack on the Toronto subway during a major convention—would our military have the necessary resources to protect citizens and visitors? Granatstein argues that the military is ill-equipped to handle both current and potential crises, lacking the well-trained and properly deployed troops needed. He critiques the changing nature of peacekeeping in a post-9/11 world, emphasizing that recent missions resemble warfare rather than traditional peacekeeping. Furthermore, he challenges Canadian attitudes towards military involvement, particularly in Afghanistan, highlighting a growing reluctance to engage. The book poses critical questions for Canadians: How can we negotiate with the U.S. amid rising anti-American sentiment? Does our immigration policy make us more vulnerable to terrorism? How can we best protect our northern sovereignty? What should we do about a pacifist Quebec? Granatstein’s work serves as a timely call to action, urging Canadians to reassess their national interests and military stance.
