Does Terrorism Work? A History

Richard English tackles the complex question posed by his book's title through examination of four major terrorist organizations: al-Qaida, the Provisional IRA, Hamas, and ETA. The analysis spans multiple decades and continents to evaluate the strategic effectiveness of terrorism as a political tool. The book combines historical accounts, data analysis, and strategic assessment to determine how terrorist groups have succeeded or failed in achieving their stated objectives. English breaks down each organization's campaigns into measurable goals and outcomes, while considering both intended and unintended consequences. Through case studies and comparative analysis, the work examines how terrorist actions influence government policy, public opinion, and social change. The research draws on extensive primary sources including interviews, documents, and statistical evidence. The text contributes to ongoing debates about political violence and state responses to terrorism, offering a framework for evaluating when and how non-state actors achieve their aims through violent means.

Readers appreciate English's detailed analysis and balanced examination of different terrorist campaigns throughout history. Many highlighted his thorough research and use of primary sources. Liked: - Clear breakdown of what constitutes "success" in terrorist objectives - Case studies on IRA, Al Qaeda, Hamas, and ETA - Academic but readable writing style - Inclusion of interviews with former terrorists Disliked: - Some found the academic tone too dry - Length devoted to the IRA compared to other groups - Price point ($40+) considered high - Limited coverage of right-wing terrorism Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (16 reviews) Notable review quote from History Today: "English methodically dismantles the notion that terrorism achieves its stated political aims." Multiple academic reviewers noted it fills a gap in terrorism studies by focusing on measurable outcomes rather than just methods or motivations.

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🔹 Despite studying over 100 years of terrorist campaigns, author Richard English concludes that terrorism rarely achieves its stated political aims, succeeding in only 4% of cases. 🔹 The book examines four major case studies in depth: Al-Qaeda, the Provisional IRA, Hamas, and ETA (Basque separatists), analyzing their different approaches and varying degrees of "success." 🔹 Richard English is uniquely qualified to write about terrorism, having grown up in Northern Ireland during The Troubles and later becoming Professor of Politics at Queen's University Belfast. 🔹 The author distinguishes between terrorism's strategic success (achieving stated goals) and its tactical success (getting publicity, causing disruption), showing how groups often mistake the latter for the former. 🔹 The book challenges the common assumption that terrorists are irrational actors, demonstrating how most groups engage in cost-benefit analyses and have clear, if often unrealistic, political objectives.