Why Do We Need to Historicize Terrorism, and How Should We Do It?

Abstract

It is quite a challenge to situate the birth of the concept of terrorism in history. This chapter embraces the historiographical tradition in which the evolution of the term terrorism as a pejorative concept is tied to the history of the French Revolution and the regime of terror that ensued. In order for us to understand the proper historical character of both the concept and the phenomenon of terrorism, this can be broken down into four dimensions: (i) the history of the study of terrorism, (ii) the history of the concept of terrorism, (iii) the historicizing of the concept of terrorism, and (iv) the historicizing of the study of terrorism. For their operationalization, this chapter offers a historical case study as an example and maps out three directions for applying the acquired insights. Thus, the chapter contributes to a more professional and fine-grained way of historicizing terrorism.