How 9/11 Changed the World, by Gabo Regueiro-Prosch

Please enjoy this article by a student in DMHS's "Introduction to Journalism" class.  

The 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City was a devastating event that changed the world forever. It was a day that will never be forgotten and its impact was felt not only in the United States but throughout the world. Many people, including politicians, scholars, and thinkers have given their views on how the events of 9/11 changed the course of history.

            Firstly, the 9/11 attacks prompted the global war on terrorism. President George W. Bush declared war on Al Qaeda and the Taliban, and promised to bring justice to those responsible for the attacks. The war on terrorism became a top priority for many countries, including the United States. According to former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, "September 11th was a turning point in the history of the world." He stated that the attacks represented a fundamental challenge to the values of democracy and freedom and that the war on terrorism was necessary to defend these values.
            Secondly, the 9/11 attacks led to a significant change in politics and foreign policies. According to journalist Fareed Zakaria, "The 9/11 attacks represented a watershed moment in American foreign policy." He argued that the attacks had dramatically altered America's view of the world, and the United States became more focused on terrorism, and weapons of mass destruction. The US government adopted a more aggressive stance toward countries that were perceived as threats to American security.
            Thirdly, the 9/11 attacks had a significant impact on freedom and human rights. The US government implemented a series of measures to combat terrorism, including the Patriot Act, which gave law enforcement greater powers to investigate and arrest suspected terrorists. These measures were controversial, and many critics argued that they violated civil liberties and human rights. Journalist Glenn Greenwald observed that "The attacks of 9/11 have made us more frightened, less free, and less open to dissent."
            Finally, the 9/11 attacks had a profound effect on society and culture. According to writer Rebecca Solnit, "September 11th made the world bigger, and it made it much more dangerous." She argued that the attacks had increased fear and suspicion, particularly towards Muslims and people from the Middle East. The attacks also had a significant impact on popular culture, including art, literature, film, and television. Many works of art and books explored themes related to terrorism, war, and political violence.
            In conclusion, the 9/11 attacks were a defining moment in world history. They led to a significant change in politics, foreign policies, and the global fight against terrorism. The attacks also had a profound effect on civil liberties, human rights, society, and culture. The legacy of 9/11 will continue to shape the world for many years to come. As British politician Charles Kennedy put it, "September 11th, with all its horror and tragedy, has also shown us that the worst aspects of human nature can at times elicit the most inspiring and admirable responses."

Gabo Regueiro-Prosch is an 8th grader at DMHS. He comes from Chicago and love to cook.