Let's understand how the idea of terrorism has changed over time:

Step 1: Early forms (Ancient Times to 18th Century): Think of groups like the Zealots in ancient Judea or the Thuggees in India. Their violence was often aimed at specific rulers or travellers, often for religious or criminal reasons, not usually to change entire governments or societies.
---Step 2: The 'Reign of Terror' (French Revolution, late 18th Century): This was a period where the government itself used extreme violence and executions to control its own people and eliminate opposition. Here, the state was the one using terror.
---Step 3: Anarchist Wave (late 19th - early 20th Century): Individuals or small groups, called anarchists, believed all government was bad. They used bombings and assassinations against kings, presidents, and officials to try and disrupt society and bring about change. Their targets were often specific leaders.
---Step 4: Anti-Colonial and Nationalist Movements (Mid-20th Century): As countries like India fought for independence, some groups used violent acts against colonial powers to achieve freedom. While their goal was independence, some methods involved acts that created fear.
---Step 5: Modern Global Terrorism (Late 20th Century onwards): This is where groups often use violence against many innocent civilians, sometimes across different countries, to achieve broad political or religious goals. They use modern media to spread their message and fear widely.
---Answer: The historical evolution shows terrorism shifting from targeted acts by individuals or states, to organised groups using widespread violence against civilians to achieve political or ideological aims.