Terrorism Flashcard

Front

What is the primary goal of terrorism, according to the text?

Back

To target civilians for political purposes

Answer explanation

The primary goal of terrorism is to target civilians for political purposes, as it aims to instill fear and influence political outcomes by attacking non-combatants.

Front

Which groups use terrorism as a tactic?

Back

Various religions, ethnicities, and politics

Answer explanation

Terrorism is employed by various groups across different religions, ethnicities, and political ideologies, not limited to any single category. This diversity highlights the complex motivations behind such tactics.

Front

Why is the term “terrorism” considered controversial?

Back

Because it can provoke strong emotions.

Answer explanation

The term 'terrorism' is controversial because it can provoke strong emotions, leading to differing interpretations and reactions based on personal, political, or cultural perspectives.

Front

What major event changed U.S. foreign policy and domestic security programs?

Back

The September 11 attacks

Answer explanation

The September 11 attacks significantly altered U.S. foreign policy and domestic security programs, leading to the War on Terror and the implementation of extensive security measures, unlike previous events such as the Gulf War or the Cold War.

Front

Which organization planned the September 11 attacks? Options: The Taliban, ISIS, al Qaeda, Hamas

Back

al Qaeda

Answer explanation

The September 11 attacks were planned by al Qaeda, a militant Islamist organization led by Osama bin Laden. The Taliban, ISIS, and Hamas were not responsible for these specific attacks.

Front

What was one effect of the September 11 attacks on the U.S. public?

Back

A climate of fear and uncertainty

Answer explanation

One effect of the September 11 attacks was a climate of fear and uncertainty among the U.S. public, as people became more anxious about security and potential threats, impacting daily life and perceptions of safety.

Front

How did some people in the United States react to terrorist attacks by Muslim extremists?

Back

By expressing strong anti-Muslim viewpoints

Answer explanation

After the terrorist attacks, many in the U.S. reacted with strong anti-Muslim viewpoints, often associating all Muslims with extremism, leading to increased discrimination and hostility towards Muslim communities.

Front

According to a 2020 report, what is now considered the greatest terrorist threat in the U.S.? Options: al Qaeda and other foreign groups, Violent extremists like white supremacists, Domestic environmental activists, Foreign immigrants

Back

Violent extremists like white supremacists

Answer explanation

The 2020 report identifies violent extremists, particularly white supremacists, as the greatest terrorist threat in the U.S., highlighting a shift in focus from foreign groups to domestic radicalization.

Front

What issues might trigger spikes in domestic violent extremist threats? Options: Disagreements on technological advancements, Issues like immigration and police-related policies, Increased focus on health care reform, Peace treaties with foreign nations

Back

Issues like immigration and police-related policies

Answer explanation

Issues like immigration and police-related policies often provoke strong emotions and divisions in society, leading to increased domestic violent extremist threats, unlike the other options which are less likely to trigger such responses.

Front

Why did some people develop anti-Muslim sentiments after September 11?

Back

Due to media portrayal of Muslims as terrorists

Answer explanation

After September 11, media often portrayed Muslims as terrorists, leading to fear and misunderstanding. This negative representation fueled anti-Muslim sentiments among some people, making it the primary reason for such attitudes.