10 Astonishing 9/11 Facts And Information You Never Knew
It’s been twenty years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, continue to impact the world today. Here are ten astonishing facts and information that you may not know about the event.
1. The World Trade Center Survivors Had a Distinct Scent
After the attack, the World Trade Center survivors had an unpleasant smell, which researchers termed “WTC scent.” It was a mixture of burning debris, jet fuel, concrete dust, and human remains.
2. The Attack Left a Massive Environmental Footprint
The collapse of the Twin Towers created a cloud of toxic dust and debris that extended throughout Lower Manhattan, exposing thousands of people to hazardous chemicals and substances. This event remains the most significant environmental disaster in American history.
3. 9/11 Killed More People Than Just the Attacks
In addition to the nearly three thousand killed in the attacks, there were thousands of first responders who died due to exposure to toxic dust and chemicals while working at Ground Zero.
4. 9/11 Also Affected the Surrounding Buildings
The attack on the Twin Towers caused significant damage to surrounding buildings, and the debris from the towers destroyed several buildings in the area. The World Financial Center sustained massive damage, and its atrium collapsed.
5. The Name Osama bin Laden Became Known Worldwide
Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks, was not a household name before September 11, 2001. Today, his name is known worldwide, and he remains one of the most infamous terrorists in history.
6. The Hijackers Used Fake IDs
The attackers used fake IDs to board the four planes that they hijacked. They used fraudulent driver’s licenses and other identification documents to bypass security checkpoints.
7. The Terrorists Practiced Hijacking Before the Attack
The terrorists underwent several months of flight training and practiced hijacking other planes before carrying out the 9/11 attacks.
8. The Attacks Inspired Extreme Patriotism
The attack on 9/11 inspired extreme patriotism and a surge in enlistments in the military. Many Americans rallied behind the president and showed their support for the country’s military.
9. The Attack Led to Fundamental Changes in US Security
The terrorist attacks of 9/11 led to far-reaching changes in US security policies and procedures. These changes included the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security and sweeping reforms in national intelligence.
10. The Attack Unleashed a Wave of Creativity
The attack on 9/11 inspired an outpouring of creative expressions in music, literature, film, and other forms of art. Many artists responded to the tragedy by drawing attention to the human toll of the events of that day.
Conclusion
The events of 9/11 remain a defining moment in modern history, shaping the world order. The attack set into motion a sequence of events that led to two lengthy wars in the Middle East, sweeping changes in US security and foreign policies, and the emergence of new global threats. Today, we remember the lives lost and the sacrifices made on that dark day.
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