Backgrounder - Terrorism

At a glance..

Most terrorist incidents in the United States have been bombing attacks, involving detonated and undetonated explosive devices, tear gas and pipe and fire bombs. This publication should give you a background on terrorism.

The details..

Terrorism is a serious threat that can cause loss of life or property damage. This book explains what terrorism is and how it affects individuals and society as a whole. Most terrorist incidents in the United States have been violence against persons or property in violation of criminal laws. Terrorists often use threats to create fear among the public by convincing citizens that their government is powerless to prevent terror attacks.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation categorizes terrorism into two types - domestic terrorism or international terrorism. Domestic terrorists are groups or individuals whose terrorist activities are directed at elements within our government or population without foreign direction whereas international terrorists involve groups whose activities transcend national boundaries.

Biological agents like infectious microbes used to produce illness/death in people/plants while chemical agents kill/incapacitate people & destroy livestock/crops; both could be dispersed through food/water supplies making them difficult to detect.The Persian Gulf War raised concerns regarding possible chemical/biological warfare but no such incident occurred.However,it remains an ongoing concern that these weapons may be involved in accidents/be used by terrorists.

In recent years,the largest number of terrorist strikes have occurred mainly on Western states & Puerto Rico with bombings being most frequently used method.Other possibilities include attacking transportation facilities/utilities/public services using chemical/biological agents.Terrorist incidents induded bombings of World Trade Center&United States Capitol Building.This book aims at providing essential knowledge on preparing oneself from any unforeseen circumstances.