Providing a history of modern rebel or non-state terror, this impressive collection takes a chronological approach to the area, highlighting the fact that terrorism as a concept has developed in the form of four consecutive waves.

Each wave is characterized by distinctive features - most specifically purposes, organizational forms and tactics - which in turn shape the relationship between terrorist groups on national and international levels.

In addition to articles from academic journals, the collection also includes discussions by participants in each wave, statements from involved groups, and relevant government documents. Principle events in terrorist history also receive special attention; for example, the first terrorist act, the assassination that provoked World War I and the 9/11 attacks on the US.