In 1966, the development of Semtex, a moldable and high-performance plastic explosive, revolutionized the field of explosives. Created in Czechoslovakia, Semtex became widely used in both military and civilian applications due to its versatility and effectiveness. The invention of Semtex marked a significant advancement in explosive technology, influencing both warfare and construction practices.

The development of Semtex plastic explosive in 1966 became a symbol in late 20th-century literature, representing themes of terrorism and asymmetric conflict. Poets began to grapple with the moral implications of violence and its impact on society, with works reflecting the complexities of modern warfare and its psychological toll.