Terrorism Before 9/11

Terrorism did not begin in September 2001, with modern terrorism evolving through four distinct waves as described by David Rapoport: anarchist, anti-colonialist, new left, and religious. Each wave featured specific tactics and groups, with the religious wave largely characterized by jihadist movements inspired by Islamist ideologies.

• Modern terrorism has evolved through four historical waves: anarchist, anti-colonialist, new left, and religious.
• The anarchist wave involved assassinations of heads of state.
• The anti-colonial wave included movements in Ireland, Kenya, Algeria, and Palestine.
• The new left wave featured Western groups engaging in kidnappings, hostage-taking, assassinations, and bombings.
• The religious wave is predominantly associated with jihadist groups, with Islam at its core.