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Embedded Files
The 2021 Attack on the U.S Capitol
By: Maggie Hartzell
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Explain what domestic terrorism is and why/how it occurs.
Identify 3 ways politics can create mass unrest and division amongst citizens, as well as contribute to domestic terrorism.
Domestic terrorism is mainly fueled by political disagreements
Political figures can directly influence domestic terrorism
The media contributes to the spread of misinformation regarding politics, which results in unnecessary anger and violence.
Introduction:
The years, 2020 and 2021, have been very interesting, influential, and eye opening years. Between the Global Pandemic, COVID-19, political/civilian unrest, and senseless acts of violence - we will never forget these years. One of the major events that happened occurred at the beginning of 2021, when a group of political driven militia members stormed the U.S capitol, a senseless act of domestic terrorism. This sparked fear in citizens as many were "uneducated on the root of domestic terrorism" (Miller 2019). This lesson will educate you on what, where, why, and when domestic terrorism is/occurs/happens. Enjoy!
What is Domestic Terrorism?
Domestic Terrorism in Reference to the Attack on the U.S Capitol
When a group of U.S Citizens stormed our Capitol on January 6th, 2021 - it was clear that this was a senseless act of Domestic Terrorism and an unprecedented attack on our nation and democracy (Hartigan, 2021). How do we know this was domestic terrorism, though? Well let's review what we learned previously. Domestic Terrorism is classified as an act of violence to ones home country with no foreign involvement or motives, is mainly fueled by political disagreements, is most likely to happen in times with big political shifts and/or civilian unrest, and can be in the form of an ambush. The attack on our capitol fits all of this criteria: extreme right wing Trump supporters are the ones who stormed, their motive was "rigged" election results, happened during a new presidential election, and they ambushed the building and "also harmed many officers/government officials on their way" (Presley 1996).
Interview with Middle School Teacher
My interviewee, Brittany Harvey, is a middle school teacher. She teaches the group of students that are just learning about politics, how to navigate domestic issues, etc. Brittany never thought she would have to have a talk about domestic terrorism with her students any time soon, but the time has come. These kids are the future of our politics, thus being said it is important for them to recognize and understand why these types of things happen. I chose to interview Brittany to gain knowledge on her personal feelings and what she plans on relaying to her own students.
Some Questions!
1.) What is the main cause of Domestic Terrorism?
A. Gender rights
B. Political Disagreements
C. Financial Status
D. Race
2.) Why is it important to educate current children on controversial events like this?
A. To pass history class
B. To talk about it with their friends
C. To better prepare them to deal with these things in their adulthood
D. To make social media posts
Educate them young, prepare them for their future endeavors!
Conclusion
2021 has been a tough, crazy year for all. When the ambush took place at the U.S capitol, many people became frightened because it was unclear what we should do in a situation like that. This just goes to show how critical it is that Domestic Terrorism and attacks like these in general are talked about more often. By better preparing our young students and adults alike, we can limit the panic and chaos when awful things like this happen. By being better educated and better prepared, everyone will be able to do their part in diminishing domestic terrorism and standing up for our country. In conclusion, by providing this information to students and young adults, we are taking the necessary steps to ensure they are educated on and prepared for scary events like this, which in return will make for a more calm, collected society.
References
Hartigan, R. (2021) “Was the assault on the Capitol really ‘unprecedented’? Historians weigh in”. National Geographic, 1. 1-2. Doi: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/2021/01/historians-on-the-unprecedented-chaos-in-congress/#close
Miller, G. (2019). Blurred Lines: The New ‘Domestic’ Terrorism. Perspectives on Terrorism, 13(3), 63-75. Retrieved February 27, 2021, from https://www-jstor-org.proxy.lib.odu.edu/stable/26681909
Presley, S. M. (1996, April 19). Rise of Domestic Terrorism and Its Relation to United States Armed Forces. Retrieved February 27, 2021, from https://fas.org/irp/eprint/presley.htm
B. Harvey, personal communication, February 12, 2021
Answers to the multiple choice questions
1.) B
2.) C
Thanks for learning about Domestic Terrorism with me! I hope you feel more educated and better prepared for a future that will unfortunately include more unprecedented attacks like the one at the capitol, but now you know how to identify and prevent them!
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