Terrorism is a highly controversial word that is used frivolously in today's society. Many people in the United States love to use the word terrorism to describe a vast array of different criminals and their activities. This occurs frequently because all acts of terrorism are conducted by criminals. These same "criminals" however are anything but criminals to their own supporters who consider them heroes or freedom fighters.
             Terrorism is defined as the calculated use of violence (or threat of violence) against civilians in order to attain goals that are political, religious or ideological in nature. This calculated use of violence is implemented through intimidation, coercion or instilling fear. (Dictionary.com) A terrorist is defined as someone who employs terrorism. A terrorist is a radical who employs terror as a political weapon, usually organizes with other terrorists in small cells, and often uses religion as a cover for terrorist activities.
             Acts of terrorism and the idea of people being terrorists are anything but new. Long before recorded history, people must have committed acts that fit our definition of terrorism and people must have conducted themselves in a manner that fits our definition of terrorist. Terrorism can be conducted in a vast variety of ways, and the act of terrorism may range in impact from small to large. An act of terrorism may consist of covert and complicated plans that take millions of dollars and many months or years to coordinate. An act of terrorism may also consist of a single person with a bomb on their back planning to blow up a public bus.
             Since the events of September 11, 2001, the United States and its citizens have had a different view on terrorism. Before the tragic events on 9/11, terrorist acts were not an issue of concern for many people in this country. This lack of concern in our country left us vulnerable to the attack. Prior to 9/11, the Oklahoma Ci...