| Since September 11, 2001, the United States and our Western allies have become greatly concerned by the threat posed by “homegrown terrorists” and the individuals responsible for their radicalization. These extremists no longer need to travel abroad to join a terrorist group and receive indoctrination; rather, they can be inspired, recruited, and radicalized by radical English-speaking Islamic ideologues either in their home country or through the Internet. The three radical Islamic ideologues who will be evaluated in this study are Anwar al-Aulaqi, Abdullah al-Faisal, and Anjem Choudary; all of whom have played a significant role in influencing radical Islam during the past decade. Through an analysis of existing scholarship on terrorism, U.S. and British court documents, radical Islamic publications, official government press releases, and news reports regarding the three ideologues this thesis demonstrates three key elements which explains these ideologues’ appeal and influence. These elements include the use of the Internet to disseminate their messages, the use of the English language, to include the ability to tailor their message to a specific audience, and their credibility and extremist bona fides. In order to counter these radical ideologues’ influence and prevent acts of homegrown terrorism, U.S. authorities must continue to target and disrupt these ideologues’ extremist activities. |
