What major event happened on September 11, 2001?

On September 11, 2001, a terrorist attack on the United States occurred, marking a pivotal moment in American history. This day is most notably remembered for the coordinated attacks carried out by the extremist group al-Qaeda, which involved hijacking four commercial airplanes. Two of these planes were flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, leading to the collapse of both towers, while a third plane struck the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, was headed for a target in Washington, D.C., but passengers attempted to regain control, resulting in the plane crashing into a field in Pennsylvania.

The attacks resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people and caused significant changes in U.S. domestic policy, global security measures, and international relations, leading to the War on Terror. This tragic event is a defining moment in U.S. history, impacting countless aspects of life in America and around the world in subsequent years.

Understanding this event is crucial as it laid the framework for many governmental changes and security protocols that still influence policy and international relations today.