UFOs and the National Security State: Chronology of a Coverup, 1941-1973

UFOs and the National Security State #1

by Richard M. Dolan

Richard M. Dolan is a gifted historian whose study of U.S. Cold War strategy led him to the broader context of increased security measures and secrecy since World War II. One aspect of such government policies that has continued to hold the public's imagination for over half a century is the question of unidentified flying objects. UFOs and the National Security State is the first volume of a two-part detailed chronological narrative of the national security dimensions of the UFO phenomenon from 1941 to the present. Working from hundreds of declassified records and other primary and secondary sources, Dolan centers his investigation on the American military and intelligence communities, demonstrating that they take UFOs seriously indeed. Included in this volume are the activities of more than fifty military bases relating to UFOs, innumerable violations of sensitive airspace by unknown craft and analyses of the Roswell controversy, the CIA-sponsored Robertson Panel, and the Condon Committee Report. Dolan highlights the development of civilian anti-secrecy movements, which flourished in the 1950s and 1960s until the adoption of an official government policy and subsequent "closing of the door" during the Nixon administration.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Paranormal, Conspiracy Theories, Aliens, Politics, Audiobook

478 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2000

About the author

Richard Michael Dolan is an American historian, ufologist, and radio and television personality.

Reviews

[Erik Graff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I put most UFO books under the "sciences" rubric with the thought of someday separating them out, though this is more a documented history of the phenomenon drawing substantially on governmental sources. As books in the genre go, this is better than the norm, the author being academically trained and the notes being ample and good.

I read this, along with several similar books, while visiting an old friend, Michael Miley, and his impressive library at their home in Sonoma, California.

[Sean Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The object possessed a superior speed, superior climbing ability, and was able to turn equally well as the F-94."
Air Force intelligence report on UFO interception, 1952

Richard M. Dolan's UFOs and the National Security State is a detailed and level-headed study of the UFO phenomenon within the context of the Cold War. Dolan, an accomplished Cold War historian, has done enough research to convince even the most devout skeptic that the UFO phenomenon is a serious threat to US national security. Aside from UFO sightings, Dolan analyses the politics, research, geopolitics, congressional hearings, intelligence communication and technology behind this unique phenomenon.

Through declassified documents released via the Freedom of Information Act and other documents by military personnel, scientists and UFO researchers, Dolan shows that the Air Force, CIA, NSA and the FBI considered UFOs to be of huge significance. This is the exact opposite of what they said publicly ("They [the Air Force] have never found anything to substantiate the existence of such things as flying saucers." General of the Air Force Hoyt Vandenberg, to the press in 1952), seemingly to protect the general public from mass hysteria and paranoia, and perhaps even to protect themselves from the idea that something has superior technology to military intelligence. Yet beyond the public facade, there was serious concern and even fear due to airspace violations, military base sightings, attempted intercepts, injuries and even deaths in military personnel whilst pursuing these objects in the sky.

"The [UFO] matter is the most highly classified subject in the United States government, rating higher even than the H-bomb... the entire matter is considered by the United States authorities to be of tremendous significance."
Wilbert Smith, Canadian government official and engineer

UFOs and the National Security State delves deep into complex rabbit hole that is the UFO phenomenon. Dolan proves that UFOs aren't strictly just 'alien visitations'. Dolan is clever enough to have a level-headed analysis of UFOs without constantly resorting to the extraterrestrial hypothesis. But it does make you think... Whatever they are, the matter is a highly sensitive one to the military-industrial complex and intelligence authorities. This book is an important look into Cold War politics, intelligence and paranoia. It will change the way you look at the US National Security State, and this is only part one of a massive two-book study.

[Lawrence Ambrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book on UFOs that I've read, and Richard Dolan is one of the few authors on UFOs whom I trust implicitly. He's highly intelligent and rational, and brings a fair-minded, meticulous perspective to this controversial subject. His idea that the UFO cover-up has helped spawn the national security state is intriguing. I especially appreciate his emphasis on the U.S. Government's interactions with this phenomenon, which helps solidify the rational basis for believing that UFOs (whatever they are exactly) are real.

[Valiant Thor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dolan's "UFOs and the National Security State" books are about the closest thing their is to a definitive account of the UFO phenomenon of the time period addressed, from a well-respected and thorough academic researcher. Recommended for both the people tentatively investigating to "see if there's anything to this UFO thing" and the people who take reality of UFO/ET's as a given but are trying to figure out what the real story is, at least the small fraction of the real story that has made it into the public domain.

[Zy Marquiez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the last decade or so, Richard Dolan has become the unofficial historian of UFOlogy, and with good reason. Dolan, in his usual no-nonsense, methodical and rational approach has brought credibility to UFOlogy, which at times is a topic that can leave one’s head spinning.

In his second volume in this series Dolan also coined the term ‘Breakaway Civilization’, which also dovetails trenchantly with this analysis.

UFOs & The National Security State –Chronology Of A Cover Up [Volume 1] by Richard Dolan brings forth a substantial effort in chronicling many of the most notable Unidentified Flying Object sighting in modern history [1941-1973].

A most comprehensive/compelling dissertation of the dilemma humanity is facing within our skies is carried out in this book, and the fact that Dolan carries it out in an objective manner is not something to be taken lightly.

Dolan does an exemplary job in detailing not only the cover up of one of the greatest secrets of human history, but he has also centers his sights on the National Security Apparatus as well as the Military Industrial Complex, both of which have played a monumental role in creating this reality matrix that has been carefully manifested around us.

Furthermore, showing his attention to detail and nuts and bolt approach, Dolan is meticulous in footnoting all sources. This is quite appreciated, because in the arena of ufology, where it’s tough to find tangible evidence – it is one of the biggest covers up after all – it’s great to have someone who’s willing to stick to documentation rather than ‘insider testimony’. Not saying the latter doesn’t matter, but, it’s quite overdone in many circles and this is a much-needed common sense approach.

Coupled with the above, the author also brings forth of the issues of UFO sightings near nuclear facilities. This in it of itself should be highly disturbing, because regardless if you think there are others out there, the simple fact that there is someone technologically advanced enough not only to penetrate the airspace of the United States and its military, but to do so with impunity, in what should be the most secure facilities on the planet [Nuclear weapons are the most powerful weapons on Earth, on paper, after all, aren’t they?] is HIGHLY DISTURBING. The fact that it’s covered up is even more so.

But there is far, far more.

Dolan examines the high strangeness in abductions, cattle mutilations and the like, but also examines much of the disinformation and psychological operations that are carried out by the governments in order to downplay, and ridicule this issue.

This book sets out to lay the foundation for what will undoubtedly be one of the most pressing issues mankind faces right at this moment.

There is nothing else out there even remotely close to this book in this field, except the works of Dr. McDonald and the work of Major Donald Keyhoe. Both have done a rather incisive job in carrying out similar work as Dolan.

Dolan’s nod to the old school researchers is definitely a classy gesture, and shows the nature of the man and the respect he shows those in his field.

If you want credibility, a thoughtful, cogent examination of an issue that has plagued us at least – at minimum – for the last few decades and will continue to affect us thorough the rest of our history, this book is definitely for you.

Everyone should read this book. Regardless of what you believe, it should be your civic duty and responsibility to be informed in this groundbreaking and thought-provoking issue, because eventually we will face it head on, whether the comptrollers want us or not.

[Eric Wojciechowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1947, when General Cutler asked General Twining if there was anything to be concerned about regarding these UFOs the Air Force was chasing, General Twining replied with a three page letter that the "flying discs" were "...something real and not visionary or fictitious" and should be made a priority to collect data and share within the military and other important agencies.

From that time on and into the 1950s, the subject was taken seriously and made openly; in that, the opinion was that these things were under apparently intelligent control. Then nearing the 1960s, attitudes changed and while the CIA, FBI and even NSA involved themselves in the subject matter, the public was less notified. Project Blue Book became more of a public relations effort while the UFO reports that were deemed of National Security value, went to another unidentified (excuse the pun) source. Why some reports are classified and some not, who knows.

What is of most interest is the following: From at least 1947, objects under apparently intelligent control have been invading United States (and other) airspace, that the military routinely scrambles intercepts to go after them, for the UFOs only to out maneuver and out perform even our best fighters, and to even manipulate (shut down) nuclear missiles (as occurred in 1967 at the Malmstrom Air Force Base).

Set aside the nutty aspects of the contactees, cattle mutilations, crop circles and the like. Just that information noted above is beyond dispute and a matter of record and worthy of study. That alone is extremely interesting even if it turns out that all of it says more about the piss-poor make up of the human brain and our identification, investigative abilities than real objects "out there". (Note that Carl Jung wrote a study on somewhat similar terms, discussing not on the reality or not of flying saucers but how people were treating them in relation to Jung's theory of archetypes).

But what of the 40s/50s assertions that the flying discs were real? We could conceive that we have more information since the 1947 Twining memo and that by the 1960s, the theory of intelligent control was dismissed, at least in public, by national security agencies. But that wouldn't explain why, to this day, the phenomenon continues and that we're still scrambling fighters, only to be out maneuvered by whatever it is that's out there. The subject matter is still, whether coming from outer or innerspace, worthy of continued study.

UFOs and the National Security State 1 is an excellent addition and mandatory reading (in my opinion) to the subject of UFOs.

[Tom Kenis · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I have become convinced that the scientific community, not only in this country but throughout the world, has been casually ignoring as nonsense a matter of extraordinary scientific importance."
James McDonald

"Unidentified flying objects - sometimes treated lightly by the press and referred to as "flying saucers" - must be rapidly and accurately identified as serious USAF business in the ZI [Interior Zone].... Technical and defense considerations will continue to exist in this area."
Inspector general of the air force, December 24, 1959

Richard M. Dolan juxtaposes, in the least sensationalist manner possible, official disinterest and ridicule with a systematic, large-scale, if at times fragmented effort by all branches of the US and other governments to document and study a topic that can potentially trigger the most important cultural shift of this century, if not of all time.

[Kat Starwolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dolan: an Historian Extraordinaire

Wow! This is a big book and an impressive read. And while it took several months to read it, it wasn’t because it was big, but because I was researching many of the accounts listed within its voluminous pages. But no complaints there. It was a joy to read.

And with the combined length of its companion (Volume 2, 1973 – 1991) of over a thousand pages of documentation, reports, activities and just plain PROOF that there is definitely something rotten in Denmark, it helps to have as much of the evidence that proves the contention that – more than likely – our planet IS being visited; that we are most likely NOT alone in the universe.

Oh, yes, and … we’re not crazy; there definitely is something in our skies that – for the most part – can’t even be explained by those in a position to know.

[Ryan Summers · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're not already convinced that the UFO phenomena is legitimate, please let this be your first book on the subject. There are a lot of less credible books discussing this phenomena, but Richard does a superb job of presenting just the "facts". I'll admit that sometimes it gets a little dry, reading-wise - but just the intensity of the mass of data he relates will leave even the most hardened skeptics scratching their heads. Richard started his career as a cold war historian and this book is written to be a serious account of a topic that is often not taken as seriously as it should be.

I'm eagerly awaiting reading Vol II (1973 - 1991?) of this series once I get a free reading moment.

[Phillip · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a lot of fun. It is the first of (at present)two volumes on the history of what he calls UFOs and the National Security State. Dolan studied cold war history. The interesting thing about his two books is that they focus, not just upon UFO events, but upon the U.S. government's suppressive reaction to those events.

He has anecdote after anecdote from the files of UFO organizations describing events and the US government's misdeeds. He does appear to have tried to be as complete as possible in the 1,000 pages the two books make up.

In the end, I find Leslie Kean's book on the same subject to be more fun to read and more convincing, of the two.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been on a major UFO kick lately and this book was a grail of information.

Spanning the years of 1941-1973, this book discusses various documented and undocumented UFO sightings as well as government involvement and denial. A majority of the book consists of eyewitness accounts across the country.

The book’s organization is fantastic. Each event is told chronologically and sorted into sections. The pages are jam-packed with information. It’s easy to see why this is the first of two volumes. Despite the amount of information, it didn’t feel dull or dry.

[Hugh · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are (still) not sure if UFO's are a real and distinct phenomenon then this is pretty convincing. Why? Because it deals mainly with the reports, actions, and personal attitudes of the US military and it's personel from top to bottom.

The author is very thorough, well researched, and good at presenting the facts. This would probably be fairly mind-blowing stuff to anyone who has not followed the UFO subject. A second facet of the book is the author details the advent of the National Security State and their assumption of the UFO "problem" from the external military into the hidden halls of the alphabet soup organizations.

Sadly, for anyone who has followed the UFO phenomenon and history this book gets boring quickly. That is sad because where past books may have alluded to a UFO incident at an Airforce base, this author presents detail after detail.

I've read half the book. I'm going to skim through the rest of the book because there IS new stuff here! The author has done his homework and this is well worth finishing.

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A seminal work, December 5, 2009

Mr. Dolan, an Oxford trained historian, has comprehensively demolished the oft-cited US Government claims that

a) there is no official US Government interest in the UFO phenomenon; and
b) virtually all UFOs can be explained in conventional terms.

This monumental work, clearly referenced and sourced, lays to rest once and for all the question of whether or not the US Government (or at least, some faction thereof) has been actively and dishonestly covering up the reality (that some UFOs are extraterrestrial spacecraft), ever since the CIA's Robertson Panel clapped the lid on the subject in 1953.

It is clear that the cover-up is still in place.

It is also clear that the next time someone asks 'what is the one book on UFOs you would recommend for a beginner' the answer is - this book.

[Manheim Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard Dolan has given us a seminal work in a field of research that can use all the credibility it can get. From post WWII until 1973, Richard Dolan gives us a meticulous and well researched historical overview of the United States' Security State and its "(non) action" to many credible UFO sightings while simultaneously giving the reader an overview of civilian UFO research groups. Simply put, this book will forever be a source book for anyone seriously writing and researching the UFO phenomenon.

[Jason May · Rating 3 out of 5]

Part of a two volume chronology on the history of UFO coverups, Dolan's work is painstakingly detailed for what is available through redacted documentation obtained by the FOIA. And while this is a sentinel piece to the "the truth is out there" puzzle it is not an easy read for the casual person; more of a reference for ufologists and die-hards. However, I do consider it an important read to those looking to investigate the ufology phenomenon.

[Allison Thurman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sets aside the issue of whether UFOs exist/are space aliens in favor of making the argument that the U.S. had (and perhaps still has) an interest in unidentified objects in the sky, and with good reason. Dense history but extremely well researched and written - a level-headed study.

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

For all ye so called skeptics out there who blabber about all UFOs being simple hoaxes, hallucinations, birds, weather balloons etc. - read this book! If you still believe that after finishing this book, please go see a doctor and/or have yourself committed.

[Phil Penhallow · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read. What a breath of fresh air to have someone write a book about UFO's that is well researched and referenced giving the reader not only a definitive account of the period but a reference source. Richard Dolan is establishing himself as the UFO Historian.

[Eddie Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even without the infinitely fascinating UFO subject matter, this is an intriguing look into the government's deep-seated use of obfuscation and subterfuge to keep us little citizens in the dark.

[Paul E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

392

[Mark Tallen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This and volume two are the definitive books on the subject

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn.

[Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great historical account from one of the best researchers in the field! He is coming to canada for a tour this may- June hope to catch him!

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

The history of UFO research has included prominent and respected figures in the past, but today, Mr. Dolan stands almost alone in keeping this subject within the rational realm, avoiding belief systems or preset universal views. As the title indicates, this book focuses solely on the period from 1941 to 1973.

Due to decades of extensive disinformation efforts, a book like this is essential for a thorough review and clear presentation of facts to keep the truth in check.

In the Netherlands, for example, the UFO community is aware that at the top of the ladder within the techno-military sphere, the UFO phenomenon is taken more seriously than the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, we know that coordination with the US and the UK on the UFO phenomenon is always in progress, and neighboring countries like Belgium and Germany do the same.

This is, of course, behind the scenes. However, the curtain can be very thin for those who trust their own judgment and have conducted their own research over a sufficient period of time. This book is a real treasure for such research.

[Trey Brummett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super interesting book. It’s believable. Case after case and not just a he said she said story, official local news outlets with military reports. All met with men in blacks suits telling the victims that it is in their best interest to not repeat any information.

Why would this not be made available for the American people? It kind of blows my mind, that bouerorcats, funded my American tax dollars, withhold information from the people that fund their projects.

But just like with everything else. Government cover up.

How would the world change if the darkest secrets were made light? The following were things I found really interesting:

Project ozma, Majestic 12, Lenord stringfield, Donald Keyhoe, 1968 Dr. Clark UFO encounter in France.

With the completion of this book, I fear I am diving deep down a rabbit hole.

[JRW Case · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author and historian Richard M Dolan compiles a historical date base of UFO sightings over North America for the time period of 1941 until 1973, to make the case that fast moving, maneuverable UFO's have been ubiquitous in the skies above planet Earth throughout the WWIi and Cold War years, and demonstrating technological capacities far superior to our own.
Dolan draws the important and far reaching conclusion that these aircrafts are maintained and operated by an intelligence, not from this earth or even this solar system.
And I agree. Maybe we humans should even feel grateful for their stabilizing presence.

[Scott Waldyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richard Dolan's research into UFO sightings, documents, and testimonials is exhaustive, and this book is like a bible for every reported event between 1941 and 1973.

If you're looking for a well-researched crash course on the subject, this is it.

That said, some conclusions Dolan draws are understandable and make sense, but there are others that ride that deep state line and come across as questionable.

It's still a great book, despite the interjections of opinions.

[Dan Zarfati · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the first from the trilogy, this one is as essential as the second book, that I happened to read first. The author goes about not only to describe the doings of the UFOs and Aliens but to the build-up of the ufology and ufologists, and how the government reacts to it and builds up a whole discourse of deflection and distraction. So the author dissects this evolution of the perception of UFOs in detail, it is an essential work to understand the UFO phenomena.

[Cy Steele-Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candid and thought provoking.

A fascinating insight into the UFO phenomena and the reaction of government/military leaders in their denial of reported facts, and the treatment of witnesses. Exceedingly well written, clear, concise and factual, where appropriate.