The terrorists have won

“The terrorists have won” or “then the terrorists win” are rhetorical expressions frequently employed in the United States following the September 11 attacks. These phrases convey the idea that engaging in certain behaviors effectively means conceding victory to the terrorists, a concept highlighted by Jeff Greenfield of CNN.

Etymology

This phrase existed prior to 2001. For instance, in 1986, the Journal of the American Bar Association (ABA) documented ABA President William Falsgraf’s statement: "If we [compromise fundamental principles of U.S. law] while responding to terrorism, the terrorists have won."

History

In 1995, an editorial addressing the response to the Oklahoma City bombing published in the Ocala Star-Banner cautioned that relinquishing First Amendment rights would signify a victory for terrorists. At the same time, the Victoria Advocate urged citizens not to surrender freedoms domestically, emphasizing that doing so meant "the terrorists have won."

The phrase rose to widespread use after September 11. A notable example occurred on November 4, 2001, when Ellen DeGeneres, hosting the rescheduled Emmy Awards, invoked it to inspire perseverance: "We're told to continue living our lives normally, because failing to do so means letting the terrorists win."