Assassinations That Changed the World presents an in-depth examination of assassinations that have changed the course of political events and world history. It provides not only a journalistic account of pivotal assassinations, but also an historical analysis, emphasizing the political/social prelude to the assassination and the repercussions. Using assassinations as a lens, Assassinations That Changed The World provides a complex study of modern world events. This series would be useful for classes on World History, Political Science, Religion and World Cultures. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Part II: Fanaticism That Endures

Fanaticism That Endures examines assassinations that are motivated by religious fanaticism and fundamentalist extremists. Some of the assassinations examined are Mahatma Ghandi, Indira Ghandi, Anwar Sadat and Yitzhak Rabin. It emphasizes the turmoil that follows the assassination of political and religious leaders.

Vocabulary

• chafed
• microcosm
• anathema
• enmity
• chastise
• fratricide
• chaotic
• conspirators
• docile
• malfeasance
• clairvoyant
• prostrate
• lament
• fanaticism
• litmus test
• affinity
• sanctity
• fundamentalism
• implement
• embittered

Discussion Questions

1. Mahatma Ghandi was one of the world's greatest leaders, but there are no indications of his future greatness in his early life. What is the course of events that transforms Ghandi from lawyer to the leader of India?
2. Can you find a comparison between Ghandi and other leaders who emphasized civil disobedience as a way to enact change?
3. Ghandi spent most of his life trying to bring peace to India, yet he dies in a violent manner. How did religious differences in India, specifically animosity between Hindus and Moslems, contribute to the death of Mahatma Ghandi?
4. The second prime minister of India, Indira Ghandi, was a woman. Why was a woman able to become India's prime minister over 30 years ago?
5. How did religion lead to the assassination of Indira Ghandi?
6. Indira Ghandi's son, Rajiv, became prime minister after the assassination of his mother. How did Rajiv Ghandi's term as prime minister differ from his mother's? What were their political differences?
7. How did Anwar Sadat unwittingly play a role in his own assassination?
8. What is the irony of Yitzhak Rabin's assassination?

Extended Activities

1. On a world map, locate the countries that the assassinations in Fanaticism That Changed the World took place.
2. Discuss different methods, besides assassinations and violence, that religious groups could use to overcome their differences.