25 years after 9/11, what disasters reveal about Americans’ ability to reconnect

Decades of disaster research show how catastrophes strain communities – and reveal the connections that help people endure.

By: Tonya Cross Hansel, University of Texas at Arlington, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: September 3, 2026

Words: 1,142

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

By Tonya Cross Hansel, University of Texas at Arlington

Many Americans will pause on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks to remember the nearly 3,000 people who were killed that day. The attacks became a shared national tragedy, the impact of which reached far beyond those who experienced them firsthand.

The aftermath of such a disaster can place enormous strain on a community. If disruption is prolonged, support is inadequate and the economic …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.