BOBBY FRICTION: GENERATION 7/7

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

9/11

On 11 September 2001 a series of attacks was launched on America. Two hijacked planes crashed into the World Trade Center (the Twin Towers) in New York City, another into the Pentagon (the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense) in Washington, and a fourth in Pennsylvania. Nearly 3,000 people were killed.

7/7

On 7 July 2005 four suicide bombers blew themselves up on three underground trains and one bus in London. It was England's worst terrorist attack, killing 52 people and injuring more than 700.

Islam

The religion of Muslims, Islam, is the fastest growing religion in the world. It has over a billion followers, from a variety of ethnic, racial and national backgrounds. The word 'Islam' comes from the Arabic word 'salaam' meaning peace, and 'Muslim' means 'one who submits to God'.

Sikhism

The Sikh religion, which was founded over 500 years ago, has a following of over 20 million people worldwide and is ranked as the world's fifth largest religion. Sikhism preaches a message of devotion and remembrance of God at all times, truthful living and equality of mankind.

Vaisakhi

Also spelled Baisakhi, this is one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar. It is the Sikh New Year festival and is celebrated on 13 or 14 April. It also commemorates 1699, the year Sikhism was born as a collective faith.