This chapter delves into the profound impacts and enduring aftershocks of two pivotal events in American history: the September 11, 2001 attacks and the December 7, 1941 Pearl Harbor attackPearl Harbor attack. Through a comparative lens, the chapter explores the immediate and long-term consequences of these events on American society, foreign policy, and perceptions of security. After setting the stage by capturing the pre-9/11 atmosphere, marked by optimism and the perception of America as an invulnerable superpower, this chapter then transitions to the immediate reactions and policy shifts following the 9/11 attacks, delving into the harrowing events of that fateful day and exploring the profound impact on national consciousness and the swift response from the government. The attacks led to significant changes in the U.S. government’s approach to security and immigrationImmigration, with increased scrutiny on student visas and other entry points. A critical aspect of the chapter is the examination of anti-immigrationImmigration sentiments that surged in the wake of both Pearl Harbor and 9/11. Following Pearl Harbor, Japanese Americans faced extreme prejudice, culminating in the forced internment of over 100,000 individuals. Similarly, after 9/11, Muslims and those perceived to be of Middle Eastern descent encountered heightened scrutiny, discrimination, and violence. The chapter explores how public fears and governmental policies intertwined to create environments of suspicion and exclusion for these communities. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the enduring legacy and lessons learned from these events, discussing the long-term societal impact of the attacks, including ongoing discrimination, changes in immigrationImmigration policy, and shifts in national identity.