September 11 changed the world, but events since have changed it more
This article reflects on the geopolitical and social shifts in the United States in the quarter-century following the September 11 attacks. It highlights the transformation of New York City, the political rise of Donald Trump, and the evolution of the war on terror.
Why it matters
It provides a retrospective analysis of how a singular traumatic event reshaped American political culture and global foreign policy over 25 years.
Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items.
Remove items from your saved list to add more.
Share A A A Imagine telling a New Yorker on the night of September 11, 2001, what her city, country and world would be like a quarter-century on.
The mayor’s office in City Hall, just a short walk from Ground Zero, would be occupied by a Muslim born in Uganda. Rudy Giuliani, who was venerated as “America’s mayor” because of the brave leadership he demonstrated amid the jagged ruins of the Twin Towers, would become a figure of ridicule. The reason he was held in such low esteem would surely be the most bewildering revelation: Giuliani ended up an adoring acolyte of the celebrity New York property tycoon who now resides in the White House, one Donald J. Trump.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in