Ep 7. Terrorism Hits Home

In The Nineties season 1 episode 7, entitled "Terrorism Hits Home," the series takes a deep dive into the complicated landscape of terrorism in the United States during the 1990s. The episode highlights some of the most significant acts of domestic terrorism that occurred in the decade, bringing to light the profound impact these events had on individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.

Viewers are taken back to the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, which was the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history up until that time. The episode then delves into the origins and motivations behind the bombing, as well as the investigations and trials that ensued. Interviews with survivors and family members of the victims provide a poignant reminder of the human toll of such an attack.

The episode also explores other incidents of domestic terrorism during the decade, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the 1996 Centennial Olympic Park bombing, and the standoff between federal agents and the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas in 1993. Through interviews with experts and survivors of these events, the episode reveals how each incident was carried out and how it impacted the culture and politics of the time.

Another major focus of the episode is the rise of Islamic extremism and terrorism in the 90s, particularly the emergence of Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda as significant threats to global security. The episode provides historical context on the origins of Al-Qaeda, as well as its growing ambitions and tactics throughout the decade. The 1998 bombings of the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania are also explored in depth, illustrating the reach and destructive power of the terrorist organization.

Throughout the episode, The Nineties takes a nuanced and critical look at the government's response to terrorism during the decade. Viewers are presented with a variety of perspectives on the efficacy and morality of tactics such as surveillance, intelligence gathering, and targeted killings. The show also highlights the political tensions and debates that arose in the aftermath of each major attack, as elected officials and law enforcement struggled to balance the need for security with concerns over civil liberties.

Finally, "Terrorism Hits Home" brings the conversation up to the present day, examining how the legacy of terrorism in the 90s has shaped our current understanding of national security and foreign policy. The episode features interviews with experts on the state of global terrorism today, reflecting on how the threat has evolved and how we can continue to respond to it in the years to come.

Overall, The Nineties season 1 episode 7 provides a thought-provoking and informative exploration of one of the most important and complex issues of the decade. Through a combination of archival footage, expert analysis, and personal testimony, the episode sheds light on the many factors that contributed to the rise of terrorism during the 90s, and encourages viewers to consider how these events have shaped our world today.