40 Facts About Anders Behring Breivik

Early Life and Background

Understanding Anders Behring Breivik's early life provides context to his later actions. Here are some key facts about his background.

1. Born on February 13, 1979, in Oslo, Norway, Breivik grew up in a middle-class family.
2. His parents divorced when he was just one year old, leading to a turbulent childhood.
3. Breivik lived with his mother, Wenche Behring, and had limited contact with his father, Jens Breivik.
4. He attended Smestad Grammar School and later Ris Junior High School in Oslo.
5. As a teenager, Breivik was described as intelligent but socially awkward, often feeling isolated from his peers.

Radicalization and Ideology

Breivik's radicalization process is crucial to understanding his motives. These facts shed light on his ideological journey.

6. In his early twenties, Breivik became increasingly interested in far-right politics and anti-Islamic ideologies.
7. He joined the Progress Party, a right-wing political party in Norway, but left after becoming disillusioned with their policies.
8. Breivik spent years planning his attacks, meticulously documenting his thoughts and strategies in a manifesto.
9. He believed that Europe was under threat from multiculturalism and Islam, which he saw as a cultural invasion.
10. His manifesto, titled "2083: A European Declaration of Independence," outlined his extreme views and plans for a violent revolution.

The 2011 Attacks

The events of July 22, 2011, shocked the world. These facts detail the attacks carried out by Breivik.

11. On July 22, 2011, Breivik detonated a car bomb in Oslo's government district, killing eight people.
12. Following the bombing, he traveled to Utøya Island, where a Labour Party youth camp was being held.
13. Disguised as a police officer, Breivik opened fire on the camp participants, killing 69 people, most of whom were teenagers.
14. The attacks lasted over an hour before Breivik surrendered to the police without resistance.
15. In total, 77 people lost their lives in the attacks, making it one of the deadliest mass shootings in modern history.

Arrest and Trial

Breivik's arrest and subsequent trial were highly publicized events. Here are some key facts about this period.

16. Breivik was arrested on Utøya Island shortly after the massacre ended.
17. He was charged with terrorism and mass murder, facing a maximum sentence of 21 years in prison.
18. During his trial, Breivik showed no remorse, claiming his actions were "necessary" to protect Europe from multiculturalism.
19. He was found sane and fit to stand trial, despite his extreme beliefs and actions.
20. On August 24, 2012, Breivik was sentenced to 21 years in prison, with the possibility of indefinite extension for as long as he is deemed a threat to society.

Prison Life

Breivik's life in prison has been a topic of interest and controversy. These facts provide insight into his incarceration.

21. Breivik is held at Skien Prison, one of Norway's high-security facilities.
22. His prison conditions include a three-room cell with a bedroom, study, and exercise area.
23. Breivik has access to a computer (without internet), television, and video games.
24. He has complained about his prison conditions, claiming they violate his human rights.
25. Despite his complaints, Norway's prison system focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Psychological Profile

Understanding Breivik's psychological profile helps explain his actions. Here are some key facts about his mental state.

26. Psychiatrists initially diagnosed Breivik with paranoid schizophrenia, but this diagnosis was later disputed.
27. A second evaluation concluded that he had narcissistic personality disorder, but was not psychotic.
28. Breivik's lack of empathy and extreme ideological beliefs are characteristic of a sociopathic personality.
29. He has shown no remorse for his actions, maintaining that he acted out of ideological conviction.
30. Breivik's psychological profile remains a subject of debate among experts.

Impact and Legacy

The impact of Breivik's actions continues to be felt in Norway and beyond. These facts highlight the lasting effects of the 2011 attacks.

31. The attacks led to increased security measures and changes in Norway's emergency response protocols.
32. Survivors and families of the victims have formed support groups and advocacy organizations.
33. The Utøya Island camp has been rebuilt and continues to host youth events, symbolizing resilience and defiance.
34. Breivik's manifesto has inspired other far-right extremists, leading to concerns about the spread of his ideology.
35. The attacks have sparked ongoing debates about immigration, multiculturalism, and the rise of far-right extremism in Europe.

Public and Media Reaction

The public and media reaction to Breivik's actions and trial was intense. Here are some key facts about the response.

36. The Norwegian public was largely united in grief and condemnation of Breivik's actions.
37. Media coverage of the attacks and trial was extensive, both in Norway and internationally.
38. Some criticized the media for giving Breivik a platform to spread his views during the trial.
39. The attacks prompted widespread discussions about the role of media in covering terrorism and extremism.
40. Public memorials and tributes to the victims have been held annually, ensuring that their memory is honored.

Final Thoughts on Anders Behring Breivik

Anders Behring Breivik's actions on July 22, 2011, left a lasting impact on Norway and the world. His meticulously planned attacks resulted in the tragic loss of 77 lives, forever altering countless families. Breivik's motivations, rooted in extreme right-wing ideology, have sparked ongoing discussions about the dangers of radicalization and the importance of vigilance against hate-driven violence.

Understanding Breivik's background, beliefs, and the events leading up to that fateful day provides valuable insights into preventing future tragedies. It's crucial to remember the victims and honor their memories by promoting tolerance, understanding, and unity in our communities.

Breivik's story serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked extremism. By learning from the past, society can work towards a safer, more inclusive future, ensuring that such a dark chapter is never repeated.