On September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks carried out against the United States would become the catalyst for at least two wars, the implementation of stricter security measures, and a shift in the country's foreign policy. The attacks, orchestrated by al-Qaeda, not only resulted in the tragic loss of nearly 3,000 lives but also left a lasting impact on the nation's sense of security.
A comprehensive, up-to-date source of online information about terrorist activity in the United States since 9-11 has been crucial in understanding the evolving nature of threats faced by the country. It has helped in shaping policies that aim to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
19 hijackers took control of four commercial flights as part of a coordinated terrorist attack on several iconic U.S. landmarks. As a result, the World Trade Center towers collapsed, the Pentagon was severely damaged, and Flight 93 crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers fought back against the hijackers.
Americans watched in horror as the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, left nearly 3,000 people dead in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. The images of the crumbling towers and the devastation caused by the attacks are etched into the collective memory of the nation.
Ten years after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the United States has been defined by its resolve, its values, and the resilience with which it has rebuilt and strengthened its national security apparatus. The country has shown its determination to not be defeated by acts of terrorism.
The United States has made significant progress in securing the nation from terrorism since the September 11, 2001 attacks. Through enhanced intelligence-gathering capabilities, improved coordination between law enforcement agencies, and the implementation of counterterrorism measures, the country has been able to prevent major attacks on its soil.
The New York City Fire Department has added 43 new names to its World Trade Center Memorial Wall, honoring the firefighters who lost their lives while responding to the 9/11 attacks. Their sacrifice serves as a reminder of the bravery and selflessness displayed by first responders in times of crisis.
There were important gains coming out of America's post-9/11 foreign policy, but some important successes came at great strategic, material, and human cost. The country's involvement in conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the broader War on Terror, have had far-reaching consequences that continue to shape international relations.
Monday marks 22 years since the Sept. 11 terror attacks – and the FDNY is still counting deaths from illnesses resulting from the recovery efforts at Ground Zero. The long-term health effects of exposure to toxins at the site have had a profound impact on the lives of first responders and survivors.
