Talking Terrorism With University Students in the Dominican Republic
I gave a lecture on 21st Century Terrorism this morning at the prestigious Universidad IberoAmericana (UNIBE). To date this was one of the larger and more enthusiastic university audiences I have had the pleasure to talk to. Special thanks to all who made my visit possible, especially my former student Vanessa who knows how to get things done in a place where it can be difficult to get things done. No further explanation should be necessary for anyone who has spent time in Santo Domingo. Things work at a different pace down here.
Since today was my only opportunity to address these history students (from various majors) and their professors, I decided to roll 3 or 4 of my presentations into one. The result was an overview of why I started studying terrorism informally 20 years ago; a comparison of Al Qaeda and Hezbollah; why and how terrorist organizations turned to the global drug trade to raise funds; and an overview of the motivations that drive suicide bombing. Needless to say it was a lot to digest in one hour, but I was very happy with the number and quality of questions I was asked during the final Q and A period.
The Xpatriot by Randall H. Miller
In 2004, I wrote a fictional novel entitled The Xpatriot. Here’s the synopsis of the book:
Scott Green is a Special Forces soldier with ten years of experience in covert operations. While finishing an eighteen month tour hunting terrorists in Afghanistan, he makes a discovery that a part of him will regret forever.
Green leaves the service shortly after healing from his wounds and decides to travel and live abroad as he searches for the answers to his deepest burning questions. His life becomes a roller coaster of emotions as he travels through the Dominican Republic. Green emerges victorious over his internal struggles and his search for love just as his past comes back to haunt him.
In the deadly game of counterintelligence, terrorism and global drug trafficking, Scott Green must balance his survival and the survival of those who he loves with the pillars of his newfound faith.
The book is complete fiction, but based on some true events (none of which involved me personally). Regardless, I still have number of copies of The Xpatriot stored in Santo Domingo and decided to give a copy to each attendee because of the topic. Also, my hope is that most will read the book and follow the link at the end to this blog where they will become regular readers and contributors. They have a lot to offer.
Again, thanks to the students and professors of UNIBE for being such gracious hosts. I look forward to working with all of you again.
Sincerely,
Randall H. Miller
Click here to book Randall H. Miller for a lecture.
UPDATED With Video Sample: May 30th, 2009
About the Author: Randall H. Miller is an American college educator/blogger. He is also a former U.S. Army officer (82nd Airborne) with a M.A. in Diplomacy (focusing on International Terrorism) and a B.A. in Criminal Justice. Use the form on the right to sign up and receive notifications of new content. The words and ideas expressed here are 100% his own and not those of his employers or affiliated organizations.
mark | May 26, 2009 | Reply
Hey Randall, this is the third time you mentioned that book. Is it still in print? Where can i get a copy?
James Duckett | May 27, 2009 | Reply
Mark, buy a copy if you can, it’s a pretty good book, even more so if you are familiar with the areas where the book’s story takes place.
mark | May 27, 2009 | Reply
My question was not if I should but WHERE I could.
RHM | May 27, 2009 | Reply
Standby, Mark.
I’ll take care of it very soon. I pulled it from the general market over a year ago because sales had peaked, but now, since there is renewed interest, I will make it available through this website. Give me a few days.
RHM
RHM | May 28, 2009 | Reply
Limited copies of The Xpatriot will be available on this blog within 24 hours. Also, you’ll be able to get them personally inscribed.
Read the Friday Morning Fix tomorrow for details.
RHM
Daniel Williams | May 31, 2009 | Reply
The 8-minute snippet was pretty good – you did a fine job. Will you post the entire lecture at some point?
And as someone who has read a copy of Xpatriot (but one lacking an inscription…), I can heartily recommend it. Good, quick read.
RHM | May 31, 2009 | Reply
Your copy was unsigned? That ain’t right, Daniel. You’re one of my original and longest readers.
We’ll have to remedy that one of these days – preferably in person.
RHM
Jane Bennett | May 31, 2009 | Reply
Your enthusiasm for your lecture topic is very obvious, and I
think you do a great job involving your audience with timely
questions. I especially compliment you with tying the beginning
to the end of your lecture – as though you had completed the outline.
PS I find Twitter just one more unnecessary reality platform –
Jane
Mary Beth Autry | Jun 1, 2009 | Reply
I really enjoyed watching you in action. It is very obvious that you are up to date, have the facts and are committed to educating the public about terrorism.
Luis Fernando Genao | Jun 1, 2009 | Reply
I still remember that class you gave us of the dangers of globalization. I indeed recognize it as a “double-edge” weapon, but to use BBs in a hostile situation I find very creative.
I have a copy of the XPatriot. Not signed though. Got it from the school’s library. Will read it asap and feedback on it. Keep of the nice work Professor Miller.
-LFGM
Alberto | Jun 2, 2009 | Reply
randy could you get me one too???
how much would it cost??? I always wanted a copy since you told us in 8th grade you wrote a book!!!
RHM | Jun 2, 2009 | Reply
Alberto,
Just go here and follow the directions:
http://randallhmiller.com/buy-my-book/
RHM
McLain Bennett | Jun 4, 2009 | Reply
Hi Randy! I loved seeing you do your thing! I am very impressed and proud! As usual you were your engaging, charming, and professional self…and sparkling!
P.S. Loved the XPatriot! Is there a sequel coming?