Terrorism, the systematic use of violence to create a general climate of fear in a population and thereby bring about a particular political objective. Terrorism has been practiced by political organisations with both rightist and leftist objectives, by nationalistic and religious groups, by revolutionaries, and even by state institutions, such as armies, intelligence services, and police.
The word terrorism was first used during the French Revolution, which began in 1789.
Jenkins, J P 2015, 'Terrorism' in Britannica Online.
"Terrorism is a global threat with global effects... By its very nature, terrorism is an assault on the fundamental principles of law, order, human rights, and the peaceful settlement of disputes upon which the United Nations is established."
Annan, K 2002, 'The United Nations and terrorism: an overview' in UN Action Against Terrorism, Mason Crest Publishers, Philadelphia, p. 9.