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Terrorism in the 1980s

NCJ Number
127911
Author(s)
E O'Ballance
Date Published
1989
Length
127 pages
Annotation
After examining the nature of terrorism in general, this book profiles five terrorist organizations that reflect the current terrorist spectrum followed by a discussion of counter-terrorist measures.
Abstract
The introductory chapter on the nature of terrorism discusses the roots of terrorism, the classifications of terror, the characteristics of terrorist groups, and State terrorism. The profiles of the various terrorist groups address their aims, motivations, and tactics. Euro-Terrorism International consists of extremist left-wing groups dedicated to disrupting NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and toppling certain Western governments. These groups peaked in the mid-1980's, but have since declined. Their activities have encompassed France, West Germany, Portugal, Belgium, Holland, Greece, and Italy. The Hezbollah is a combination of State terrorism and Shia Muslim fundamentalism prepared to operate suicide missions. The Irish Republican Army and the Basque ETA have nationalist aims, each struggles to achieve its own vision of national independence. The Armenian groups profiled are fighting for a "homeland" in Turkey. Terrorism countermeasures can be broadly categorized under passive security, expert security forces, and international cooperation. Subject index and glossary