DOOMED TO REPEAT? Terrorism and the Lessons of History

The essays in this collection examine the place of history in terrorism studies and in contemporary discussions on terrorism and counter-terrorism. This volume marks an effort by a group of scholars and practitioners to provide a justification for the better understanding of Terrorism's past and the importance of this past for today and tomorrow. The collection is divided into four sections. Section One places Terrorism Studies and the study of history in context and considers the connections between these fields of study. Section Two is written by non-historians and practitioners who have seen the importance of historical context and perspective in the understanding of current events. Section Three provides case studies that explore the history of terrorism and politically motivated violence. Section Four places concerns about terrorism in regional and foreign policy context. This collection helps us advance our understanding of terrorism beyond simplistic and dichotomist assertions about them and us. Taken together, these essays highlight the importance of analyzing, rather than assuming. -Chris Dixon, Professor, School of History, Philosophy, Religion, and Classics, The University of Queensland, Australia. This collection could not come at a more opportune time given the current preoccupation in government with Terrorism... It will not only contribute substantially to the current scholarship on the subject, but will set a benchmark by which future researchers will have to measure themselves. It will, furthermore, become a reference for both students and experts in the field. -Philip Dwyer, Director, Social and Cultural Conflict Research Group, University of Newcastle, Australia. In this volume, the subject matter ranges widely over the field including important contributions on some of the major areas of international conflict of the last twenty years. By paying attention to national, regional and international phenomena, this collection will provide access to a breadth of historical perspectives and approaches that is uncommon in this field of studies. -Mark Finnane, Professor, ARC Centre of Excellence in Policing and Security, Griffith University, Australia.