NCJ Number
189697
Date Published
2001
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This paper provides background information about terrorism.
Abstract
Terrorism is the use of force or violence against people or property. Most terrorist incidents in the U.S. have involved small extremist groups who want to achieve a designated objective. Domestic terrorism involves activities directed at elements of the U.S. government or population without foreign direction. International terrorism involves groups or individuals whose activities are foreign-based. An attack can take various forms, such as an attack against a utility or transportation facilities, but bombings are the most frequently used method. Incidents have included bombings of the World Trade Center in New York and the U.S. Capitol building. From 1983 to 1999, the FBI identified 101 terrorist incidents in the U.S., 60 percent of which occurred in Puerto Rico. Effects can vary from loss of life to property damage and loss of services. The government tries to reduce our vulnerability by increasing security at airports or working with other countries to limit the sources of support for terrorism. Biological agents are infectious microbes or toxins that produce illness or death. Chemical agents can kill or incapacitate people, destroy livestock or ravage crops. Biological and chemical weapons are used to terrorize civilian populations and not as a weapon of war. The Department of Defense estimates as many as 26 nations possess chemical weapons and 12 may be seeking them. The Central Intelligence Agency reports that at least 10 countries are believed to possess biological agents.