The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 defined George W. Bush's presidency.

The attacks mark a turning point in his presidency in that questions over the 2000 election were vanquished, and a new purpose was given to him. Mr. Bush has used the 9/11 events to justify any number of policies ranging from the war on Iraq to oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Whether or not the president wins re-election in 2004, his presidency will be forever linked with these tragic events in the eyes of history.