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Worst Terrorist Attacks In World History

1.9/11 Attacks

Date: September 11, 2001

The 9/11 attacks, which took place on September 11, 2001, were a series of coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by al-Qaeda, an Islamic extremist group led by Osama bin Laden.

On that morning, a group of terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes:

  • American Airlines Flight 11
  • United Airlines Flight 175
  • American Airlines Flight 77
  • United Airlines Flight 93

The hijackers intentionally crashed two of the planes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing massive damage and fires.

The first plane to hit the North Tower (1 WTC) was American Airlines Flight 11 at 8:46 a.m. The second plane to hit the South Tower (2 WTC) was United Airlines Flight 175 at 9:03 a.m., just 17 minutes later.

At 9:37 a.m, American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, which is home to the U.S. Department of Defense.

Around the same time, United Airlines Flight 93 crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers attempted to overpower the hijackers.

The impact and subsequent fires caused both World Trade Center towers to collapse, with the South Tower collapsing at 9:59 a.m. and the North Tower at 10:28 a.m.

The attacks resulted in:

  • 2,753 fatalities in the World Trade Center
  • 184 people killed at the Pentagon
  • 40 passengers and crew members on United Airlines Flight 93

Total of nearly 3,000 innocent civilians lost their lives that day.

The 9/11 attacks were not only devastating for those directly affected but also had a profound impact on global politics and international relations, leading to the War on Terror and ongoing conflict in various parts of the world.

Location: World Trade Center, New York City and The Pentagon, Washington D.C.

The 9/11 attacks were a series of coordinated terrorist attacks carried out on September 11, 2001, by al-Qaeda, an Islamist extremist group led by Osama bin Laden.

The attacks targeted four commercial planes and the World Trade Center in New York City, and The Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia, near Washington D.C., resulting in nearly 3,000 deaths and over 6,000 injuries.

The first plane to hit was American Airlines Flight 11, a Boeing 767 aircraft that crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 8:46 am local time.

Seventeen minutes later, United Airlines Flight 175, also a Boeing 767, crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center, causing massive damage and fires in both towers.

At 9:37 am, American Airlines Flight 77, a Boeing 757 aircraft, crashed into The Pentagon, causing significant damage and loss of life.

The impact and resulting fires led to the collapse of both towers of the World Trade Center; the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 am, and the North Tower at 10:28 am.

Passengers on board United Airlines Flight 93 attempted to overcome their hijackers, but the plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers are believed to have overcome the hijackers.

The 9/11 attacks were the deadliest terrorist attack in modern history and had significant impacts on international relations, global security policies, and civil liberties.

Casualties: Nearly 3,000 people from over 90 countries

The **9/11** attacks were a series of coordinated terrorist attacks carried out on September 11, 2001, by al-Qaeda. The attacks resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people from more than 90 countries.

The main targets of the attacks were the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C. A fourth target, believed to be the White House or U.S. Capitol building, was also identified but not attacked due to the planes crashing into other targets.

The attacks began at 7:59 a.m. when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. At 8:46 a.m., United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower. Seventeen minutes later, at 9:03 a.m., another plane, American Airlines Flight 77, crashed into the Pentagon.

The impact and subsequent fires caused both towers to collapse. The South Tower fell at 9:59 a.m., and the North Tower at 10:28 a.m. The attacks also caused extensive damage to surrounding buildings and infrastructure.

Of the nearly 3,000 people killed in the 9/11 attacks, over 2,700 were civilians, including employees of various companies that had offices in the World Trade Center. Almost 400 firefighters and paramedics died attempting to rescue those trapped in the towers.

The 9/11 attacks resulted in significant international condemnation and led to military action in Afghanistan under the banner of the “War on Terror”. The impact of the attacks can be seen in many aspects of modern society, including increased security measures at airports and public buildings, changes in international relations and diplomacy, and a shift in global attitudes towards terrorism and extremism.

2.Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack

Date: March 20, 1995

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack occurred on March 20, 1995, and is considered one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in history. It was perpetrated by Aum Shinrikyo, a Japanese doomsday cult led by Shoko Asahara.

The attack took place during the morning rush hour when five trains were released with sarin gas at different stations along the Tokyo subway system. The sarin gas caused widespread panic and illness among commuters and station staff, resulting in 13 deaths and over 6,000 people seeking medical attention.

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack was a culmination of Aum Shinrikyo’s extremist ideology, which emphasized the need for a catastrophic event to bring about the apocalypse. The group had been stockpiling sarin gas and other toxic substances in preparation for this attack.

On the day of the attack, members of Aum Shinrikyo boarded the trains with small canisters of sarin gas that they released during peak hours when the stations were crowded with commuters. The release of sarin gas was designed to cause maximum harm and chaos among civilians.

The initial response from authorities was slow due to a lack of preparedness for such an attack, which contributed to the severity of the damage caused by sarin gas. It took several hours for emergency services to arrive at the scene and begin treating those affected.

Following the attack, investigators discovered that Aum Shinrikyo had planned and executed this operation in secrecy, with Asahara giving the final order to proceed with the attack. The group’s operatives were highly organized and carried out their tasks with precision, making it difficult for authorities to anticipate the attacks beforehand.

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack led to a significant increase in anti-terrorism measures worldwide, particularly in Japan where new laws were enacted to combat extremist organizations like Aum Shinrikyo. The attack also highlighted the need for governments and law enforcement agencies to improve their preparedness for such events and enhance communication between intelligence agencies.

Today, the Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack is remembered as a pivotal moment in modern terrorism history, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of extremist ideology and the devastating consequences of its manifestation through terrorist actions. The event also underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and preventing similar attacks from occurring worldwide.

In 2018, the Tokyo District Court found Asahara guilty of ordering the sarin gas attack and sentenced him to death for his role as the mastermind behind the Aum Shinrikyo cult. The verdict brought closure to victims’ families but also served as a reminder that justice is often delayed in dealing with complex terrorist cases.

Location: Tokyo Subway, Japan

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack occurred on March 20, 1995, and it is considered one of the worst terrorist attacks in history.

The attack took place on a busy morning commute in Tokyo’s subway system, specifically on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line.

Aum Shinrikyo, a Japanese doomsday cult led by Shoko Asahara, was responsible for the attack.

The attackers released sarin gas through plastic bags in several train cars and at various stations along the subway line.

At least 13 people were killed and more than 6,000 were injured in the attack.

The sarin gas caused symptoms including respiratory distress, muscle spasms, and seizures among those exposed to it.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and other emergency responders quickly responded to the scene and attempted to contain the situation.

Emergency workers also worked to evacuate those affected from the subway system and provide medical treatment to those in need.

The Japanese government launched an investigation into the attack, which identified 172 people as being involved in planning or carrying out the attack.

Six of the cult members were subsequently executed for their roles in the attack.

Asahara, the leader of Aum Shinrikyo, was sentenced to death and is currently on death row awaiting execution.

Causes of the Attack

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack was motivated by a combination of ideological and practical factors.

Aum Shinrikyo had been developing its own chemical weapons program for several years prior to the attack, with a focus on sarin gas.

The cult’s leaders believed that sarin would be effective in creating mass casualties without leaving visible evidence behind.

Consequences of the Attack

  • The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack led to significant changes in Japan’s counter-terrorism policies and laws.
  • Aum Shinrikyo was banned by the Japanese government, and its assets were seized.
  • The attack also highlighted the need for more effective emergency response planning and preparedness.

Legacy of the Attack

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack remains one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in history, with significant psychological, physical, and social impacts on those affected.

It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of radicalization and the need for vigilance against domestic terrorism threats.

Impact on Japan’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack led to significant improvements in Japan’s counter-terrorism capabilities, including:

  • Enhanced intelligence gathering and sharing among law enforcement agencies.
  • Improved emergency response planning and preparedness.
  • Development of more effective counter-terrorism laws and policies.

Casualties: 13 deaths and 6,000+ injuries

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack occurred on March 20, 1995, and is considered one of the most tragic terrorist attacks in history.

The attack was carried out by a Japanese doomsday cult known as Aum Shinrikyo, led by Shoko Asahara, who had planned to release sarin gas in major Tokyo subway stations during rush hour.

At around 8:00 am, five men wearing gas masks entered the Odakyu Line at the Kasumigaseki Station and released the sarin gas from their bags.

The attack resulted in:

  • 13 deaths
  • More than 6,000 people were injured
  • Thousands of others suffered from temporary and long-term effects due to exposure to the gas.

The victims included commuters who were on their way to work, as well as some emergency responders who were trying to help those affected by the attack.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department launched a massive investigation into the attack, which led to the arrest of several suspects and the eventual conviction of Shoko Asahara and many others involved in the plot.

Shoko Asahara was sentenced to death for his role in the attack, as well as other related crimes. He is currently on death row at a Japanese prison.

The Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack led to significant changes in Japan’s counter-terrorism policies and procedures, as well as a renewed focus on disaster preparedness and emergency response.

3.Oklahoma City Bombing

Date: April 19, 1995

The Oklahoma City bombing was a domestic terrorist attack that occurred on April 19, 1995, in which a truck bomb exploded outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

At 9:02 am local time, the truck bomb detonated with an estimated 4,800 pounds (2,200 kg) of explosives, causing widespread destruction and killing 168 people, including children in a daycare center, federal employees, and visitors to the building.

The blast also injured over 680 others, some severely, and damaged or destroyed more than 300 buildings within a 16-block radius.

Two domestic terrorists, Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, were later convicted of conspiring to carry out the bombing. McVeigh was executed by lethal injection on June 11, 2001, for his role in planning and carrying out the attack.

Nichols was given life imprisonment without parole for his involvement in the bombing, as well as another bombing plot that targeted an FBI office in Oklahoma City.

Investigations revealed that McVeigh and Nichols were motivated by extremist views and a desire to punish the US government for its handling of the Ruby Ridge incident in 1992 and the Waco siege in 1993, both of which involved confrontations with law enforcement agencies.

The Oklahoma City bombing was one of the deadliest domestic terrorist attacks in U.S. history and had significant consequences for the nation’s counter-terrorism efforts, including increased funding and resources for state and local law enforcement agencies to prevent such attacks in the future.

**Key Facts:**

1.

Date:

April 19, 1995

2.

Location:

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

3.

Death Toll:

168 people killed

4.

Injuries:

Over 680 others injured

**Causes and Consequences:**

*

Motivation:

The attack was motivated by extremist views and a desire to punish the US government for its handling of Ruby Ridge and Waco.

*

Investigation:

A lengthy investigation led to the arrest, trial, and conviction of Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols for their roles in the bombing.

*

Consequences:

The attack had significant consequences for the nation’s counter-terrorism efforts, including increased funding and resources for state and local law enforcement agencies.

**Timeline:**

1.

April 19, 1995:

The Oklahoma City bombing occurs at 9:02 am local time.

2.

June 11, 2001:

Timothy McVeigh is executed by lethal injection for his role in the attack.

3.

April 19, 1995 (anniversary):

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is dedicated to honoring the victims of the bombing and promoting peace and unity.

Location: Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, Oklahoma City, USA

The **Oklahoma City Bombing**, which occurred on April 19, 1995, was one of the deadliest domestic terrorist attacks in the history of the United States. The bombing took place at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City, USA.

The attack was carried out by **Terry Nichols** and **Timothy McVeigh**, two American extremists who were motivated by anti-government sentiment. On the morning of April 19, 1995, a RV bomb, loaded with over 4,800 pounds of explosives, was detonated in front of the Murrah Building.

The explosion caused widespread destruction and chaos, resulting in:

  • 168 people killed, including children in a daycare center inside the building
  • 680 injured
  • Over 300 buildings damaged or destroyed in the surrounding area

The bombing was intended to avenge the Ruby Ridge and Waco Siege incidents, where federal agents had engaged in confrontations with armed individuals. McVeigh and Nichols believed that the government was overstepping its authority and sought revenge.

However, their actions resulted in unimaginable tragedy and loss of life. The Oklahoma City Bombing led to a significant increase in security measures at government buildings and institutions across the United States.

The **investigation** into the bombing was one of the largest and most complex in American history. It involved cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies, as well as international assistance. McVeigh was arrested on April 21, 1995, and later convicted of murder and conspiracy charges. He was executed by lethal injection on June 11, 2001.

Nichols was also convicted of involuntary manslaughter and conspiracy to commit federal felony murder. He received a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Casualties: 168 deaths and over 680 injuries

The Oklahoma City bombing, also known as the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing, was a devastating terrorist attack that occurred on April 19, 1995. The tragedy resulted in a staggering number of casualties, with 168 people losing their lives and over 680 others suffering injuries.

The blast, which occurred at approximately 9:02 am local time, caused widespread destruction throughout the downtown area of Oklahoma City. The Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, a nine-story structure that housed numerous government agencies, law firms, and other businesses, was severely damaged, with many sections collapsing or suffering significant structural damage.

Among the victims were children in a day care center located inside the building, as well as employees of various federal agencies, including the U.S. Secret Service and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The attack also claimed the lives of first responders and innocent bystanders who were in the vicinity when the blast occurred.

The Oklahoma City bombing was carried out by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, two American extremists who sought to avenge the government’s handling of the 1993 Ruby Ridge incident and the Waco siege. The attack was characterized by its sheer brutality and indiscriminate nature, as it targeted innocent civilians and caused massive destruction to public property.

The aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing saw a massive response from emergency services, with rescue workers and medical personnel racing against time to save lives and provide aid to those injured in the blast. The incident led to significant changes in federal building security measures and emergency preparedness protocols nationwide.

Today, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum serves as a poignant reminder of the tragedy, honoring the victims with 168 empty chairs, each representing one of the lives lost, while also providing a space for reflection and education on the dangers of domestic terrorism.

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Victoria Macpherson AOEC

Fact Checked by Victoria Macpherson AOEC

Victoria is a Career and Business coach with a background in recruitment and Investment Banking. She works with clients at career and life crossroads who want to look more deeply at where they are going. Whether you are going back to work after having children, changing career or looking to redress your work life balance she is there to support you to find the right path. She works with her clients to help them manage their business and personal life and to find clarity, focus and direction. Victoria will give you the opportunity and time to work out the balance you need in your life. Through using psychometrics, challenging your assumptions and working on your self beliefs and using in depth reflection and questioning Victoria will work with you to find what is the right next step for you. She walks with you in the process and you will come out with a clear vision on what stops you from moving forward and the changes you want to put in place. She also works with you to explore how you come across to others and how you can have greater impact. Victoria can help you bring about a positive change, whether this is how to approach people or situations differently, how to have greater impact, how to prioritise the different demands placed upon you or simply how to look after yourself better. By increasing one’s awareness of these unseen limiting patterns, we help remove blockages and create a shift in belief. This allows you to choose different and more productive ways of thinking, acting and living. Victoria’s successful coaching style and her insightful feedback helps her clients with: Managing Work Life Balance Career Path Guidance Leadership Skills Dealing with Change She is a qualified as a coach with the AOEC and is a trained facilitator in Hogan Psychometric testing. She has completed courses in Gestalt Therapy and Mindfulness and is trained in the Nancy Kline Time to Think process. Prior to being a coach she had a career in Investment Banking and set up a headhunting firm in the city.

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