When Was the Madrid Train Bombing?

By Robert Palmer

The Madrid Train Bombing, also known as the 11-M bombing, was one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Spain’s history. On March 11, 2004, a series of coordinated explosions took place in four commuter trains during rush hour in Madrid, killing 191 people and injuring more than 2,000 others.

Background

Spain had been a Target of terrorist attacks before the Madrid bombing. In the late 20th century, the Basque separatist group ETA had carried out numerous bombings and assassinations in Spain. However, this attack was different as it was carried out by Islamic extremists.

The Attack

On the morning of March 11, 2004, ten bombs exploded on four commuter trains at Atocha Station and two other stations in Madrid. The bombs were placed inside backpacks and left on the trains. The explosions occurred within a span of a few minutes and caused widespread destruction.

Casualties

The bombings killed 191 people and injured more than 2,000 others. Many victims suffered from burns and shrapnel wounds. The attack was one of the deadliest terrorist incidents in Europe’s recent history.

Investigation and Arrests

The investigation into the bombings led to several arrests. The Spanish government initially blamed ETA for the attack but later discovered that it was actually carried out by an Al-Qaeda-inspired group called Jamiat al-Islamia al-Maghribia.

Aftermath

The Madrid bombing had far-reaching consequences for Spain’s political landscape. It took place just three days before Spain’s general elections, and many believed that it influenced the outcome. The ruling conservative party at that time had supported George W. Bush’s decision to invade Iraq, which was deeply unpopular among many Spaniards.

The opposition Socialist Party won the election and formed a government that immediately withdrew Spain’s troops from Iraq. The Madrid bombing also led to an increase in security measures across Europe.

Conclusion

The Madrid Train Bombing was a tragic event that shook Spain and the world. It highlighted the dangers of terrorism and underscored the importance of international cooperation in combating it. Today, the victims are remembered through numerous memorials and tributes across Spain.