Lecture Notes: The Enduring Legacy of 9/11

Introduction

• 9/11 terrorist attacks resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths in New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania.
• Two decades later, the impact of these attacks still resonates, especially highlighted by the recent U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Public Memory and Reaction

• Majority of Americans who were old enough to recall 9/11 remember where they were.
• Immediate public reaction was one of shock, sadness, fear, and anger.
• Initial unity and patriotism eventually waned over time.

U.S. Foreign Policy and Military Actions

• Initial strong support for military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq post-9/11.
• With time, public support declined as the wars prolonged.
• Recent survey: 69% of U.S. adults see the Afghanistan mission as a failure.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

• 71% felt depressed days after 9/11; difficulty concentrating and sleeping were common.
• Television was the dominant news source, impacting public perception significantly.
• Fear of another attack persisted long after the immediate events.

Long-term Effects on U.S. Society

• 9/11 shaped public opinion, increased trust in government initially, and surged patriotic sentiments.
• Over time, trust in government and institutions decreased again.
• Public support for military actions initially high, waned as conflicts dragged on.

Terrorism and Policy Priorities

• Terrorism has consistently been a top policy priority.
• Partisan divides emerged over the years regarding the perception of the threat and policy responses.
• Recent events, like the Taliban takeover, continue to influence public perception.

Civil Liberties and Security Measures

• Post-9/11, there was openness to sacrificing civil liberties for security.
• Debate over balance between security measures and civil liberties continues.

Views on Muslims and Islam

• Initial post-9/11 period saw favorable views towards Muslim Americans.
• Over time, partisan divides emerged, with Republicans increasingly associating Islam with violence.
• Rise in anti-Muslim sentiment affected the Muslim community in the U.S.

Conclusion

• 9/11's legacy still affects U.S. foreign policy, security measures, and societal attitudes.
• As the U.S. navigates new challenges, the lessons and impacts of 9/11 remain crucial.