September 11 Attacks: Facts, Background & Impact

Overview

• On September 11, 2001, four commercial airplanes were hijacked by terrorists affiliated with al Qaeda.
• Targets included the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Virginia, and a failed attempt potentially aimed at Washington, D.C.
• Nearly 3,000 people were killed during the attacks, including passengers, civilians, and first responders.

Key Events of 9/11

World Trade Center

• 8:45 a.m.: American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
• 18 minutes later, United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower.
• Both towers collapsed within hours.

Pentagon Attack

• American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon at 9:45 a.m., causing significant structural damage and loss of life.

Flight 93

• United Flight 93 was hijacked but passengers attempted to regain control.
• The plane crashed in Pennsylvania.
• Intended target is unknown, but speculated to be Washington, D.C.

Key Figures

• Osama bin Laden: Leader of al Qaeda, mastermind behind the attacks.
• George W. Bush: U.S. President at the time, declared a war on terror.

Immediate Response and Impact

U.S. Government Actions

• Department of Homeland Security was created to focus on counter-terrorism and national security.
• Operation Enduring Freedom launched, leading to the invasion of Afghanistan.

Economic Impact

• Immediate negative impact on the U.S. economy, especially in finance and air transportation sectors.
• Estimated $60 billion cost in damages.

Victim Support

• Victim Compensation Fund: Established to support victims' families and first responders.
• By 2018, exposure to toxic elements at Ground Zero led to thousands diagnosed with 9/11-related cancers.

Memorials

• National September 11 Memorial & Museum: Located at the original World Trade Center site.
• Patriot Day: September 11 designated as a day of remembrance.
• Reflecting Absence: Memorial design featuring two reflecting pools at Ground Zero.

Long-term Changes

• A significant increase in national security measures and policies.
• Ongoing military campaigns related to counter-terrorism.

Conclusion

The September 11 attacks had enduring impacts on global politics, U.S. national policy, and the lives of thousands affected directly or indirectly by the events. Memorials and remembrance activities continue to honor those who lost their lives and those who responded heroically during the crisis.