Which two sentences best describe the overall impact of the September 11 attacks on ordinary American citizens?

Question

1. They live under the threat of terrorist attacks.
2. They cannot venture out of their homes at night.
3. Their constitutional right to privacy may be compromised.
4. They are not allowed to travel to Middle Eastern nations.
5. They have to pay additional taxes for protection from terrorists.

Answer 1

The two sentences that best describe the overall impact of the September 11th attacks on American citizens would be:

1) They live under threat of terrorist attacks

Explanation: After the September 11th attacks, the American people were deeply traumatized and frightened of another attack. Anxiety was particularly high in urban cities such as New York City, Washington DC, and Chicago that feared they would be targeted. Many refused to travel via airplanes after the attacks. In response to this, the government began increasing security in airports, subways, and train stations to try and prevent another terrorist attack.

2) Their constitutional right to privacy might be compromised.

Explanation: The Patriot Act was a controversial law passed after the September 11th attacks to “enhance national security” by giving law enforcement (particularly the FBI and CIA) broader surveillance powers such as increased wiretapping, access to electronic communications, financial tracking (to combat laundering), “sneak peek” services, and access to banking records. The law was incredibly controversial with many citing that it violated the constitutional right to privacy. Regardless, the law passed with overwhelming support from both Republicans and Democrats.