1. Causes of the Global War on Terror

Apuntes

• Causes of the Global War on Terror **9/11 Attacks:** The immediate catalyst was the September 11 attacks orchestrated by al-Qaeda, resulting in nearly 3,000 deaths in the U.S. **Rise of Extremist Networks:** The proliferation of Islamist extremist groups in the Middle East and South Asia, such as the Taliban and al-Qaeda, was fueled by ideological, political, and socio-economic factors. **Geopolitical Instability:** Long-standing conflicts in regions like Afghanistan and the Middle East created power vacuums that extremist groups exploited. --- • Watergate & the Aftermath (1972–1974) **What was the Watergate Scandal?** The Watergate scandal began with a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in the Watergate complex in Washington, D.C., on June 17, 1972. The burglars were connected to President Richard Nixon’s re-election campaign, known as CREEP. The scandal involved illegal activities, including wiretapping, campaign fraud, and cover-ups orchestrated by Nixon’s administration. **Key Events:** The scandal was investigated by journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein of the Washington Post. Senate hearings uncovered Nixon’s involvement, incl...