Islamic terrorism. Why does it exist? Is there something inherent within the religion itself, or a reaction to Western activity?

Islam terrorism is simply a misinterpretation of a peaceful religion that has tragically resulted in the loss of so many lives. It is like the Salem witch hunts and Crusades are for the Christian faith, something that will be looked back on with very low favor. So many other people have chosen to interpret that the word of God calls them to act violently, although there is nothing in the word of any currently practiced religion that calls the believers to come to acts of violence.