In the early years after the 9/11 attacks, declaring al Qaeda attacks incidents of terror seemed straightforward: Al Qaeda leadership selected targets and trained or inspired followers who took direction or guidance. (CNN) Terrorism isn't just an act of violence -- it's a political statement, the politically motivated killing of innocents. And a self-proclaimed ISIS adherent attacking in the streets of America or Europe isn't necessarily terrorism. Homegrown terrorHomegrown terror hit America more prominently as the decade progressed, through youth joining groups such as Al-Shabaab in the Horn of Africa and al Qaeda in Yemen. Al Qaeda had a stricter leadership structure and logic -- and tied the attacks they committed to a longer term strategy.

Source: CNN August 08, 2016 20:48 UTC