The attacks of September 11, 2001, thrust terrorism into the forefront of the world’s consciousness, and with modern media’s ability to instantaneously spread news of the latest tragedy worldwide, it seems that terrorism has reached unprecedented levels. Although it has increased in recent decades, the threat of terrorism has long been a specter in the lives of millions, and the patterns and occurrences all too regular. The 2001 attacks marked the anniversary of a full century of terrorism—one that began in September of 1901.
This chronology of terrorism begins with President McKinley’s assassination in September of 1901, and ends with the September 11, 2001 attacks. It begins by examining the multifaceted meanings of the word, and establishing a working definition. The ensuing chronology details terrorist events both well known and obscure, chosen as representative, decade by decade, of that particular period. A concluding chapter examines changing trends in methods of attack and the effectiveness of various movements. Appendices include a list of notable terrorist organizations; international conventions governing terrorism; and the U.N. Security Council resolution passed after the September 11 attacks.
