Carlos the Jackal, also known as Ilich Ramírez Sánchez, is a widely known and notorious Venezuelan-born terrorist and international criminal. Born in 1949, Carlos gained international notoriety primarily for his involvement in numerous high-profile terrorist attacks during the 1970s and early 1980s.
Carlos earned his infamous moniker, "the Jackal," from the media due to his cunning and elusive nature, evading authorities for an extended period. He became an iconic figure, symbolizing international terrorism during his heyday. His activities primarily targeted Western countries, particularly France, which became his main field of operation. Carlos was associated with various radical leftist organizations and supported several national liberation movements worldwide.
Throughout his terror-driven career, Carlos orchestrated a series of bombings, hijackings, and assassinations, intending to undermine governments and institutions he labeled as oppressive or imperialistic. His most notable and deadliest attack was the seizure of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) headquarters in Vienna, Austria, in 1975, where he took several hostages, resulting in multiple deaths.
Carlos the Jackal's actions and persona have inspired everything from books and movies to conspiracy theories. Despite being captured in 1994 and serving time in multiple prisons since then, his legacy as an emblematic figure in international terrorism persists, leaving an indelible mark in contemporary history.
