An attack that changed the world

Though it happened 20 years ago, the repercussions of 9/11 are still felt.

On September 11, 2001, four aeroplanes, hijacked by terrorists, rammed into buildings in the U.S. — one crashed into a field in rural Pennsylvania — and left a trail of death and devastation, whose effects are felt to this day. The date in American terms (month/day) is symbolic; for 911 is the number dialled for emergency. The targets too reflected American prestige and power. The twin World Trade Center Towers constructed in 1973, were a New York landmark. The Pentagon in Arlington is where the country’s military and intelligence wings are headquartered. The attacks were coordinated and planned by terrorists belonging to the Al-Qaeda group then based in Afghanistan and the horrific events claimed over 3000 lives. This included passengers and crew of the ill-fated planes, those who perished in the buildings that were attacked, police officers and firefighters. Many others died of injuries, and from long-term health effects from the toxic fumes and gases.