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ANALYSIS 2D AGO MS NOW

If you rob 9/11 of the fear, chaos and trauma, you misunderstand our country's reaction: Author

11 SEP 2026 · 16:39 ET·10:22·14.5K VIEWS·0.2× USUAL PACE

Presidential historian Garrett Graff discusses the 25th anniversary of 9/11, emphasizing that understanding the fear, chaos, and trauma of the day is crucial to comprehending the country's reaction. He explains that the simplified narrative of 9/11 misses the prolonged uncertainty and confusion Americans experienced, including the government's belief that more planes might be hijacked hours after the initial attacks. Graff also touches on the subsequent 'War on Terror,' the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, and the rise of Islamophobia, contrasting President George W. Bush's efforts to unite the country with later political rhetoric.

WHY IT MATTERS

Failing to grasp the full scope of fear and confusion on 9/11 leads to a misunderstanding of the subsequent US policy decisions and societal changes, including the War on Terror and increased domestic surveillance.

ALSO DISCUSSED

The creation of the Department of Homeland Security, the Patriot Act, the rise of Islamophobia, Donald Trump's rhetoric on immigration and Muslims, and the 'birther' movement.

9/11 ATTACKS GARRETT GRAFF WAR ON TERROR DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY GEORGE W. BUSH

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