Understanding Terrorism ... 25 Minutes. Click to preview
For: Years 9 - 13
Format: DVD / VHS
Type: Chapters
Price: NZ - $67.50, Aus - $67.50, International - Not Available
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Understanding Terrorism is a unique video resource, made in 2003, that addresses the origins of terrorism, and identifies and illustrates the most influential terrorist acts in history (since World War 2). This exceptional video utilizes archival news footage and interviews with experts in the field to help young people understand the history of terrorism. Understanding Terrorism addresses the causes of terrorism and examines its effects on governments, society and people. It is presented in segments:
What is Terrorism? Graphically illustrated and defined with archive news film. This sequence explores terrorism from above (State terrorism), and terrorism from below (by individuals and organisations). Case studies include: Adolf Hitler's Germany and his official extermination of 6 million Jews; Mao Tse Tung's China and repression; Pol Pot's Cambodia; and Slobodan Milosevich's ethnic cleansing. Case studies of terrorism from below include: the ANC and Nelson Mandela against apartheid in South Africa where 1000's were killed; Columbia, where drug cartels have exploited the fear and unrest triggered by terrorism; Osama Bin Laden's attacks on the USA and other countries.
Motivations for Terrorism: Terrorist acts always have reasons. To stop popular movements taking control in their countries; Papa Doc has committed terrorist acts in Haiti; Stalin killed thousands in Russia; pro-democracy movements in Chechnya sought independence and been repressed by Russia triggering acts of terrorism; Kashmir seeks more independence from India. To protest against government actions: Timothy McVeigh bombed a US state building in Oklahoma and killed more than a hundred; the Uni-Bomber killed many US citizens. To preserve and protect religious ideas: September 11th bombing of US Trade Centre buildings; Jewish terrorist killed 29 Islamic worshippers at prayer
Strategies of Terrorism The desire to generate fear in the community. The need to obtain maximum media coverage - acts of terrorism are often aimed at the people watching TV, more than the people who are actually killed. Public places are popular targets. Targets also include assassinations of political leaders, but more recently targets have been indiscriminately chosen: tourist attractions; public places; Twin Towers. Targets include plane hi-jackings. Suicide bombs have become more common. And car bombing campaigns such as Bloody Friday in Northern Ireland. Kidnapping is another terrorist strategy. In Japan biological chemicals were used in a subway attack.
Profile of a Terrorist Terrorists can come in any shape, size, sex or colour. Often young, passionate and the followers of a group or idea. Heroes for their cause and for their leaders - eg Osama Bin Laden. The video ends by considering the impact of terrorism, and whether terrorist acts can be considered successes or failures.