It's a pretty common tactic. IIRC, the Nazis allegedly shelled one of their towns and used it as an excuse to invade Poland. The Soviets were rumored to have done the same with Finland.
It may be many things but a common tactic it is not. There might be famous examples in history but their fame is indicative of just how uncommonly it is used.
Which American city will the CIA nuke to push us all into war?
According to Jericho, there are 24 cities targeted.