About Book

David C. Rapoport's Waves of Global Terrorism: From 1879 to the Present offers an in-depth analysis of the evolution of terrorism over more than a century. Rapoport identifies four distinct waves of global terrorism: 1. Anarchist Wave (1879–1920s): Originating in Russia, this wave involved anarchists who employed tactics like assassinations as "propaganda of the deed." 2. Anticolonial Wave (1920s–1960s): Emerging post-World War I, this wave saw groups in colonized nations using terrorism to achieve independence. 3. New Left Wave (1960s–1990s): Characterized by leftist ideologies, this period included tactics such as hostage-taking and airplane hijackings. 4. Religious Wave (1979–present): Predominantly involving religious motivations, especially within the Islamic world, this wave introduced methods like suicide bombings. Rapoport also contemplates the emergence of a potential fifth wave, marked by anti-immigrant and white supremacist terrorism. By examining the patterns, tactics, and goals of these waves, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the historical and contemporary landscape of terrorism. Understanding the historical patterns of terrorism is crucial in today's global security environment. Rapoport's analysis sheds light on the cyclical nature of terrorist movements and offers insights into potential future threats, including the rise of white supremacist terrorism. Community Engagement and Attachment Mechanism: This book serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, security professionals, educators, and the general public. It fosters informed discussions on the roots and evolution of terrorism, encouraging communities to engage in proactive measures to counter radicalization and promote social cohesion.