THE Atlanta blast sent shock waves far beyond the Olympic city, reviving American fears of the growing threat of international and domestic terrorism.
Security was immediately stepped up for the athletes and spectators as the Games went on, but the nation was left to wonder why the 30,000 law enforcement officials in Atlanta, including more than 1,000 FBI agents, were not enough to prevent the placement of a deadly homemade bomb.
President Bill Clinton called the blast an 'evil act of terror' and an 'act of cowardice that stands in sharp contrast to the courage' of those participating. He said the Government would pursue those responsible for the blast and 'we will see that they are punished'.
The people of Atlanta are stunned that their biggest-ever event could turn so tragic.
Police Sergeant James Sherill, holding back crowds because of a bomb scare a few hours after the blast, summed up the mood change that has swept the city: 'The fun's all over with. It's all serious business now. The sad part about it is I was enjoying it all.' The Centennial Olympic Park blast reminded politicians and the public that terrorism against American targets had become the United States' central concern in the post-Cold war era.
Those convicted or suspected of planting the World Trade Centre, the Oklahoma City and the 'Unabomb' devices are now behind bars - but US agencies have proved much more adept at tracking down terrorists than preventing their violence.
'This country cannot be held hostage to terrorism,' Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell said last night. But the increasing panic amongst the public indicated that Mr Campbell had spoken too late.
