What Happened in the Oklahoma City Bombing
On April 19, 1995, a truck bomb exploded outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. The attack killed 168 people and injured hundreds. It remains one of the deadliest acts of domestic terrorism in United States history.
Who Was Responsible and Why
Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols carried out the bombing. McVeigh was motivated by opposition to federal government actions, including the siege at Ruby Ridge and the Waco siege. He sought to protest what he saw as government overreach.
Aftermath, Trials, and Legacy
McVeigh was convicted and executed in 2001. Nichols received life sentences. The bombing led to major changes in U.S. anti-terrorism policy and building security standards. Memorials and museum programs continue to educate the public about the attack and its victims.
For detailed timelines and victim information, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum official site.
