Description:When should the United States intervene abroad militarily? When does it have a security interest in going into another country, even if it means fighting an unconventional war? Examining five case studies, this book concludes Americans have been too eager to intervene abroad, often exaggerating and misperceiving threats. They have also been ill prepared to fight unconventional wars like Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The United States requires more discrimination in choosing to intervene, more awareness that the costs of intervention often outweigh the benefits, and more preparedness to fight unconventional wars when necessary.