September 5's True Story Explained: What Happened At The 1972 Munich Olympics

The Event: Black September's Attack on the Olympic Athletes

On September 5, 1972, a Palestinian terrorist group called Black September attacked the Israeli Olympic athletes staying at the Munich Olympic Village. The terrorists took hostage 11 Israeli athletes and coaches, and demanded the release of 234 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. The hostages were eventually killed in a botched rescue attempt by German police.

The Aftermath: International Condemnation and Questions

The Munich massacre sent shockwaves around the world. It was the first time that a terrorist attack had been carried out against the Olympic Games, and its brutality stunned the Olympic community. In the aftermath of the attack, many questions were raised about the security measures that had been in place, and about the German police's handling of the rescue attempt.

Remembering the Victims: The 11 Israeli Athletes and Coaches

The 11 Israeli athletes and coaches who were killed in the Munich massacre were remembered in a memorial at the Olympic Village. The memorial includes the names of each of the victims, as well as a flame that burns in their memory. The memorial is a reminder of the tragic loss of life that occurred on September 5, 1972, and of the need to fight against terrorism.

The Legacy: Impact on Future Olympics

The Munich massacre had a profound impact on future Olympic Games. Security measures were increased at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, and they have continued to be tightened at every subsequent Games. The massacre also led to the creation of the Olympic Truce, which is a resolution passed by the United Nations that calls for a cessation of all hostilities during the Olympic Games.

Conclusion: A Reminder of the Fragility of Peace

The Munich massacre is a reminder of the fragility of peace. It is a tragic event that should never be forgotten. The massacre should also be a reminder of the importance of fighting against terrorism, and of working to create a more just and peaceful world.