Al Qaeda

• Documentary

Episode overview

For many in the Western world, their name is unequivocally associated with terror, tragedy, and death. For many more, however, Al Qaeda signifies strength, power, and redemption. In this insightful program, Biography takes an astonishing journey around the globe to find out more about this terrorist organization's secret world. From their beginnings as "Arab Afghans" fighting under the banner of Islam against Soviet Communism in the 1980s to their involvement in present-day conflicts and terrorist attacks, examine the origins, aims, and history behind this infamous group. Delve into the personality of their leader Osama Bin Laden, and discover the reasons why he and his followers have become the implacable enemies of the United States. Featuring rare footage of Bin Laden and his closest associates, as well as FBI surveillance tapes of terrorists in Sudan, this is a comprehensive and discerning look at one of the most dangerous organizations in the world.

60 minutes