On this anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks I’d like to call your attention to the website of the History Channel where they showcase their programming dedicated to remembering 9/11. They feature an interactive map representing eyewitness accounts, a timeline of the events of that day, and an archive of radio broadcasts. They also highlight events in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Shanksville, PA.
I was hesitant to make a post about 9/11. The U.S. Role blog is usually about what the U.S. is doing in the world and 9/11 is about what was done to the U.S. on that day. There are those who believe that 9/11 was caused by what the U.S. had done in the world, that the terrorists were motivated by past grievances, but no grievances over real or imagined injustices can possibly justify the cold blooded murder of civilians. And besides, blaming the victim is just bad form. The 9/11 attacks did expand the U.S. role in the world, with the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq still ongoing, and it inspired closer U.S. security collaboration with our allies. The impact of 9/11 on the U.S. role in the world is probably more expansive than we realize and more complex than I can outline here, so for right now, I’m content to solemnly remember the lives lost on that day and honor those who remain vigilant in our common defense.