LibGuides: CJA467: Module 1

Module 1 Required Resources

Digital History: Terrorism in Historical Perspective
Reading: Digital History: Terrorism in Historical Perspective.
This short read provides a historical snapshot of terrorism from the first century to the present.
Encyclopedia Britannica: Terrorism - Definition, History, Types
Reading: Encyclopedia Britannica: Terrorism - Definition, History, Types.
This encyclopedia entry takes a broader view of terrorism and provides discussion regarding types of terrorism, as well as additional historical information.

History of Terrorism Lecture 1: What is Terrorism? with Dr. Michael Decker.
In this narrated presentation and educational lecture, you will find discussions about what terrorism is (and is not), as well as definitions of the term.

Video: Can Terrorism be Defined.
This short video provides a global overview of terrorism examples while debating whether the concept can be clearly defined.

Contemporary definitions of terrorism: FBI – Terrorism Definitions
Reading: Contemporary definitions of terrorism: FBI – Terrorism Definitions.
As the lead investigative agency for the US Government, the FBI definition of terrorism guides proactive and reactive efforts to mitigate the terrorist threat.

Video: NPS CHDS Video: Introduction to Terrorism: Typology, Targets, and Organizations.
This video (from the Naval Postgraduate School) provides insight into classifications of terrorism, targets of terrorism, and different organizations.

State Sponsors of Terrorism
Reading: State Sponsors of Terrorism.
State sponsorship of terrorism presents a global significant threat and allows foreign governments to engage in terrorist acts through proxy organizations.
Hizballah NarcoTerrorism
Reading: Hizballah NarcoTerrorism.
Narco terrorism is the use of terrorist tactics to enforce the drug trade OR (as is the case in this article) terrorist organizations using proceeds from drug sales to fund a group and its activities.
Cartel-Related Violence in Mexico as Narco-Terrorism or Criminal Insurgency: A Literature Review
Reading: Cartel-Related Violence in Mexico as Narco-Terrorism or Criminal Insurgency: A Literature Review.
This article focuses on violence used by cartels to enforce drug activities and protect income streams.

Environmental Extremists and The EcoTerrorism Movement
Reading: Environmental Extremists and The EcoTerrorism Movement.
While this resource is older, it provides a comprehensive overview of EcoTerrorism, including topics such as the definition, motivations, and how to combat the problem.

Sovereign Citizen Movement
Reading: Sovereign Citizen Movement.
Paper terrorism is a tactic primarily used by Sovereign Citizens. This article provides background and overview of this derivation of terrorism.
Introduction to CyberCrime and CyberTerrorism
Reading: Introduction to CyberCrime and CyberTerrorism.
This short document provides an introduction to the topic of cyberterrorism – a method of victimization that is relatively new and increasing in popularity with both nation states and independent organizations alike.
Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Terrorism
Reading: Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Terrorism.
This United Nations document is a starting point for understanding terrorist threats involving CBRN materials.
Chronology of Aum Shinrikyo’s CBW Activities
Reading: Chronology of Aum Shinrikyo’s CBW Activities.
Aum Shinrikyo is a Japanese terror group infamous for using chemical and biological weapons. This document provides a recap of their activities, their attacks, and the outcomes.
Amerithrax or Anthrax Investigation
Reading: Amerithrax or Anthrax Investigation.
Shortly after September 11th, the United States was targeted and attacked with a biological weapon – Anthrax. This site provides a quick synopsis of the attacks and additional resources for research.
Biological Attack Fact Sheet
Reading: Biological Attack Fact Sheet.
Compiled with information from the National Academies and the Department of Homeland Security, this fact sheet provides additional information regarding biological weapon attacks.
Nuclear Terrorism
Reading: Nuclear Terrorism.
The ultimate nightmare scenario is a terror group acquiring and deploying a nuclear device in an attack. This site provides a tree top overview of this threat and the ramifications of a successful nuclear terror attack.

Each of the above readings provides specific information on different types of terrorism. As you can see, there are several different derivations of what is contemporarily referred to as “terrorism.” Keep in mind that terrorism can take on many forms and incorporate many tools and tactics.