Americans Recall 9/11 Attacks and Changes to Country

Americans in Washington, D.C., have shared personal memories of where they were during the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 and discussed how the events altered the United States. The accounts reflect on one of the most transformative days in modern American history.

On Tuesday, 11 September 2001, hijackers took control of four U.S. passenger jets. Two of the aircraft were flown into skyscrapers in New York City, killing thousands of people as the structures were destroyed.

Attacks in Washington and Pennsylvania

A third hijacked plane struck the western face of the Pentagon, the military headquarters of the United States situated just outside Washington, D.C.

A fourth airliner crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers aboard fought back against the hijackers. Authorities believe the hijackers intended to use that aircraft to attack the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.

Recalling the Impact

In interviews conducted in Washington, Americans recalled their specific activities on the morning of the strikes and reflected on how the attacks permanently reshaped the nation’s public life and society.

Background

The 11 September attacks led to comprehensive changes in United States domestic security, intelligence operations, and international relations in the decades following the events.