Bombing of the U.S. Capitol - March 1, 1971

On March 1, 1971, a bomb exploded in the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C., causing significant damage but fortunately resulting in no injuries. This attack was claimed by the Weather Underground, a radical left-wing militant organization active during the late 1960s and 1970s.

Context and Background

The Weather Underground, originally known as the Weathermen, emerged from the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) in 1969. The group was known for its opposition to the Vietnam War and sought to overthrow what it perceived as American imperialism and systemic racism. By the early 1970s, the Weather Underground had shifted to more militant tactics, including bombings, as a form of protest against U.S. government policies.

The Event

• Date and Time: The bombing occurred on March 1, 1971, at approximately 1:32 a.m.
• Location: The explosion took place in the Senate wing of the Capitol building.
• Damage: The blast caused extensive damage to the building, including the destruction of a restroom and significant structural harm to nearby areas. The estimated cost of repairs was around $300,000.
• Casualties: There were no injuries or fatalities, as the bombing occurred late at night when the building was largely unoccupied.

Claim of Responsibility

Shortly after the explosion, the Weather Underground claimed responsibility for the attack. The group stated that the bombing was in retaliation for the U.S. military’s involvement in Laos, as part of the broader conflict in Southeast Asia. The Weather Underground issued a communiqué explaining their motives and warning of further actions if U.S. military aggression continued.

Aftermath and Significance

• Security Measures: The bombing led to increased security measures at the Capitol and other government buildings. It highlighted vulnerabilities in the nation’s security infrastructure and prompted a reevaluation of protective strategies.
• Public Reaction: The attack drew widespread condemnation from both the public and political leaders. It underscored the tensions and divisions within the United States during a period marked by civil unrest and opposition to the Vietnam War.
• Impact on the Weather Underground: The bombing was one of several high-profile actions by the Weather Underground, which continued its activities throughout the early 1970s. However, increased law enforcement pressure and internal challenges eventually led to the group’s decline.

The 1971 Capitol bombing remains a significant event in American history, illustrating the extreme measures some groups were willing to take to express their dissent and the broader societal conflicts of the era.