Domestic Terror in the United States, Essay Example

Introduction

Most of the public’s perception of domestic terror is provided by the media. This usually is externally focused i.e. terrorist coming from cells abroad trying to create domestic acts of terror in the USA. Historically, this has really been more about who is an America, defining the rights of same and subsequent disenchantment with how democracy is interpreted towards the people. The Ku Klux Klan were an example of an early terrorist group that tried to enforce white supremacy in the Southern States of America. More recently in 2012 Wade Page opened fire on a Sikh congregation in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. His lengthy association with white supremacy groups was believed to be his prime motivation for this attack.

Domestic Terror in the USA

Examples of domestic terror in the USA include: (1) small scale bombings (2) Assaults (3) Arson (4) small cell terrorist threats (4) Explosive violations. (Clancey, 2013). The concept of Jihadist groups are a relatively new concept to the USA spilling over from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. There are many other terrorist groups from religious fundamentality groups, anarchists, neo-nazi groups each believing that some violent ideological craze will bring attention to their needs. (Stewart, 2013).

Groups like Al Quada look for opportunities that will involve maximum media coverage. In particular the treat to blow up planes has heightened Airport security across the USA to unprecedented levels. Individuals from separate terrorist cells pose more of a threat because they can surface anywhere. Equally the Intelligence services are more likely to have more information and surveillance on known terrorist groups. The increased security has caused delays and an unpleasant experience with a lot of people switching back to the car for domestic travel. (Kenney, 2013)

References

Clancey, M. (2013, 3 2). Testimony. Retrieved from Federal Bureau of Investingation: http://www.fbi.gov/news/testimony/the-domestic-terrorism-threat

Kenney, C. (2013, 3 2). Airport Security Is Killing Us. Retrieved from Business Week: http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2012-11-18/how-airport-security-is-killing-us

Stewart, S. (2013, 3 2). Domestic Terrorism: A Persistent Threat in the United States – See more at: http://www.stratfor.com/weekly/domestic-terrorism-persistent-threat-united-states#sthash.mw8DF4Wh.dpuf. Retrieved from Stratfor: http://www.stratfor.com/weekly/domestic-terrorism-persistent-threat-united-states