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Assassination of Abraham Lincoln
The 16th president, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford's Theatre, Washington DC. He was shot in the head by John Booth and died the next morning. Lincoln was a leader during the war and worked to end slavery. His death left the country sad and uncertain about the future. This was the first time a US president was killed and made people worry about racial issues and how to bring the country back together. Lincoln's legacy lives on as a symbol of leadership. (Jeff Wallenfeldt) -
The Great Railroad Strike of 1877
The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 was a protest by railroad workers because their wages were cut, it shows how workers united to fight unfair treatment. The government sent troops to stop the strike which made people think about the worker's rights. This led to the start of labor unions and showed the importance of standing together for fair treatment at work.
(Becky Little) -
US Receiving the Statue of Liberty
To honor the alliance between France and America during the American Revolution, French gifted The Statue of Liberty. This statue has become a national symbol of liberty and democracy. Lady Liberty holds a tablet engraved with July 4, 1776, showing her representation of American independence. A few years later Ellis Island opened as the main point of entrance to America, this statue welcomed more than 12 million immigrants to the US sharing the mindset of freedom and opportunity. (David Hudson) -
Stock Market Crash of 1929
The stock market crash was a huge disaster, causing a lot of people to lose their money. It led to the Great Depression which was a terrible economic downturn. Businesses had to close, people lost their jobs, and life became very hard for many. The government had to step in to try to fix things to provide relief to those affected by the crisis. It was a tough time for the whole world and reshaped the role of government in the economy and society.
(Gary Richardson) -
Cable TV taking over
The takeover of cable TV changed American culture in many ways. It offered niche programs for different interests and groups like news, sports, and music. It opened up for people to talk more about sex and sexuality. News networks became powerful in shaping public opinion and politics. It helped spread American culture worldwide, affecting how people see America and its values. It brought people together, they started doing viewing parties together to watch the shows.
("Kruse and Zelizer," 230) -
Hubble Space Telescope being put into space
The Hubble has helped us learn more about planets, stars, and galaxies pushing the boundaries of space exploration. It shows us things in space and teaching us a lot about the universe making it easier and safer to send people into space. This telescopes success shows the value of working together with other countries. With it being in space we are always able to keep an eye on what is happening in space allowing new discoveries all the time.
(UPI Staff) -
Bill Clinton promising to "sweep away the Reagan Revolution"
Bill Clinton making this promise to sweep away the Reagan Revolution was a significant statement in American politics during his 1992 presidential campaign. It meant that he wanted to move away from Ronald Reagan's conservative policies. Clinton aimed to bring in more progressive ideas, such as increasing taxes on the wealthy and expanding social programs. This promise was a way for him to appeal to voters who felt left out by Reagan's policies and wanted change.
("Kruse and Zelizer", 201) -
Bill Clinton impeached from office
Bill Clinton's impeachment was only the second time in US history that a president faced this. He was impeached by the House of Representatives on charges related to lying about an affair with Monica Lewinsky and trying to cover it up. Clinton's impeachment raised questions about the legal and ethical standards for presidential conduct. It started discussions about the proper balance between public and private life for elected officials and the consequences of lying under oath.
(Russell Riley) -
Election of 2000
The 2000 presidential election was incredibly close and controversial. The outcome was decided by a Supreme Court ruling to stop the recount in Florida, giving George Bush the presidency over Al Gore. This raised concerns about the electoral process and led to debates about political polarization. Bush's presidency had major effects on American policies and global affairs, especially after the 9/11 attacks.
(Michael Levy) -
9/11
On September 11, 2001 a horrific terrorist attack took place at the World Trade Center in New York City. This was such a significant event that it became known to people all over. Airplanes were hijacked by terrorists and were flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, causing both towers to collapse within hours. The attacks resulted in the deaths of almost 3,000 innocent people, making it the deadliest terrorist act in world history.
("Krush and Zelizer," 249) -
Department of Homeland Security being created
The Department of Homeland Security was created after 9/11 to improve the country's security and response to threats. It brought together different agencies to coordinate efforts and focus on preventing terrorism. It is responsible for border security, immigration, and emergency response. While it aims to keep the country safe, it has faced criticism and challenges regarding its effectiveness and impact on civil liberties.
(Mara Rudman) -
Hurricane Katrina
A massive category 5 storm struck the Gulf in August 2005. This hurricane, name Katrina caused destruction from Texas to central Florida. Hit specifically hard was New Orleans, the levees that protected the city from the surrounding seas failed causing large sections to be underwater. Hurricane Katrina came to be the most expensive natural disaster in American history with damage around $108 billion. Also it was one of the deadliest hurricanes causing 1,833 deaths.
("Krush and Zelizer," 283) -
Nancy Pelosi becomes first female speaker of the House of Reprentatives
Nancy Pelosi becoming the first female speaker of the US House of Representatives was a big deal, it showed progress for gender equality in politics and inspired women across the country. As speaker she led the house effectively pushing through important legislation on healthcare and other issues. Her leadership showed that women can be powerful political leaders and role models.
(history.com editors) -
Obama Elected President of the United States
Barack Obama, the 44th president of the United States, became the first African American to hold the highest office in the country, breaking racial barriers and inspiring hope for progress. His campaign focused on hope, unity, and change inspiring millions of people, especially young and marginalized communities. He achieved significant policy changes, including healthcare reform and marriage equality improving the lives of many Americans.
(WH.GOV) -
Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting
The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting was a heartbreaking event in US history because it led to loss of many lives, including children and teachers. It started debates about gun control and safety in schools as well as discussions about mental health support. The tragedy brought the nation together in mourning and prompted calls for action to prevent similar events in the future.
(Michael Ray) -
2016 Presidential Election
The 2016 presidential election was big for many reasons, candidates like Trump and Sanders challenged the political establishment, showing a desire for something new. It showed how divided the country was on issues like immigration and inequality. Social Media influence became a large problem because of how much candidates used it and it also brought up concerns about fake news. Hillary Clinton became the first women nominated by a major party. Policy changes brought up debates.
(David Beckwith) -
COVID-19
COVID-19 had a wide range of impacts on society, economy, and healthcare. It cause widespread illness and overwhelmed hospitals. Because of this lockdowns started and social distancing change how people lived. Many lot their jobs and businesses suffered, schools closed and remote learning became common. This took a toll on mental health and highlighted social issues. Governments had to step up to find ways to fight the virus and support people financially.
(Kathy Katella) -
Black Lives Matter protests in New York City
The BLM protests were significant because they drew attention to racial inequality and police brutality. They mobilized people globally and pushed for policy changes to address systemic racism. There were large numbers of people from different backgrounds, including activists, community organizers, and ordinary citizens. Even though they took place in NYC they had an effect around the world. They sparked conversations about race and justice leaving a lasting impact on society.
(Jeff Offenhartz)