Black Hawk Down

In 1993, Mogadishu was in a serious war within its own walls as they fought terrorist groups that were ravishing the city. The government had zero control, and with a struggling military they reached out to the U.S. for help. Post-WWII and Cold War, the US was super hesitant to offer any aid in a problem that wasn't there's. Until Mogadishu offered the use of the port in the city and the US jumped on the chance. They deployed a couple of ranger units to carry out a "simple" mission that would involve picking up a couple of lieutenants after a meeting. Two US Black Hawk helicopters were shot down and the day(s) was known as the Battle of Mogadishu.

The history of this tragedy and the horrific day is a reminder to the US of the dangers in Africa. The idea that advanced technology and superior weapons will result in an easy victory is foolish as this is a prime example of the war on foreign territory. After this battle, and 9/11 the war on terror has been the focal point for the American people. The problem is, the citizens of Mogadishu face these problems daily, and nobody is willing to risk their men and reputation to help.

Dawson, Ashley. “New World Disorder: Black Hawk Down and the Eclipse of U.S. Military Humanitarianism in Africa: African Studies Review.” Cambridge Core. Cambridge University Press, October 18, 2013. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/african-studies-review/article/abs/new-world-disorder-black-hawk-down-and-the-eclipse-of-us-military-humanitarianism-in-africa/08DA94F4F2794C37436B7C901CD3DDD1.

“Battle of Mogadishu (1993).” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, December 7, 2020. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Mogadishu_(1993).

Dotson, Philip B. “The Successes and Failures of the Battle of Mogadishu and Its Effects on U.S. Foreign Policy.” DigitalCommons, Cedarville. Accessed December 10, 2020. https://digitalcommons.cedarville.edu/channels/vol1/iss1/3/.

History.com Editors. “The True Story of Blackhawk Down.” History.com. A&E Television Networks, May 30, 2012. https://www.history.com/topics/us-presidents/the-true-story-of-blackhawk-down-video.