War on Terror
Definition
The War on Terror is an international military campaign launched by U.S. government after September 11 attacks in 2001. Its main goal is to eliminate al-Qaeda and other militant organizations.
Analogy
Imagine if your school had a major cheating scandal, leading administration to launch an all-out "War on Cheating." They might implement new rules, surveillance systems, or punishments - similar to how governments have responded with heightened security measures during War on Terror.
Related terms
Al-Qaeda: An Islamist extremist group founded by Osama bin Laden that has carried out numerous terrorist attacks including those on September 11th, 2001.
Patriot Act: Legislation passed shortly after September 11 attacks that expanded the surveillance powers of U.S. government in order to deter and punish terrorist acts.
Afghanistan War: A conflict that began in 2001 as a response to September 11 attacks, with the goal of dismantling al-Qaeda and removing Taliban from power in Afghanistan.
"War on Terror" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (3)
- The U.S. announced a war on terror and invaded which country immediately following September 11th?
- Which event marked the beginning of the War on Terror in the 21st century?
- What event is considered to have triggered the "War on Terror" in the 21st Century?
Resources
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