This book explores the history of Islam and the cultural, political, and socio-economic forces that have cultivated an environment that nurtures terrorism and idolizes its leaders.

"On September 11, 2001, the world witnessed the most devastating act of terrorism ever to occur on American soil. In the days and weeks that followed, information began to emerge about the architects of the attack - a group so elusive and decentralized that it is recognized only by its name, the destruction that is its signature, and the face of its leader, Osama bin Laden.".

"What do we really know about Al Qaeda and its soldiers, who secretly operate in more than 60 countries around the world, including the United States? Al Qaeda examines the networks religious roots, its organizational reach, its political and religious agenda, and its tactics.".

"It is impossible to come to terms with Al Qaeda and the future of Islamic extremism without understanding the history of Islam. Al Qaeda explores this history and the cultural, political, and socio-economic forces that have cultivated an environment that nurtures terrorism and idolizes its leaders. Understanding these forces may be the world's most effective defense against terrorism."--BOOK JACKET.