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1492
Christopher Columbus reaches the Americas.
In 1492 landed on the grounds of America. Even though Europeans called Vikings had reached America hundreds of years before Christopher Columbus. However, the Vikings did not establish long-lasting settlements. Columbus explored the area and brought back more Europeans with him on later trips. Columbus’s voyages therefore had many more lasting effects. Christopher Columbus opened the door to European exploration which would let to the formation of new world . -
1513
Juan Ponce de León explores Florida.
In the early 16th century, Ponce de León set sail from Puerto Rico in search of new territories. He landed on the coast of Florida between Morden Saint Augustine and Melbourne beach, and named the region Florida because it was discovered at Eastern time and it abounded in lush, Florida vegetation. He discovered the cost including the Florida keys and discovered the gulf Strems. -
Founding of Jamestown
On December 6, 1606, the journey to Virginia began on three ships: the Susan Constant, the Godspeed, and the Discovery. In 1607, 104 English men and boys arrived in North America to start a settlement. Jamestown, Virginia for their settlement, which was named after their King, James I. The settlement became the first permanent English settlement in North America. The Virginia Company of London, a joint-stock company, sponsored the expedition to establish a colony in the New World. -
The first recorded arrival of enslaved Africans in English North America at Jamestown.
The first recorded arrival of enslaved Africans in English North America occurred in August 1619 at Jamestown, Virginia. A ship known as the White Lion arrived at Point Comfort with around 20 or more enslaved Africans. These individuals were initially brought to Jamestown by English privateers who had captured them from a Portuguese slave ship. This event marked the beginning of African slavery in the English colonies. -
The Mayflower Compact - 1620
Compact is a historic document that has significance in American history as a foundational political document. English separates, Pilgrims arrived in new world on Mayflower in sought of religious freedom. Pilgrims realized the need of signing the new document as the new destination was out of the jurisdiction. It was a written agreement that outlined the intention of self-government and the rule of law. It is considered as a precursor to other documents. It is celebrated as "Fore Father's Day." -
Founding of Harvard
Harvard University in 1636, this is the first education institute in America. It was established in Cambridge Massachusetts.The University was first named "New College" but it was later renamed Harvard after John Harvard. This institution really played a crucial role in American education system and has become one of the worlds leading educational institution. -
Bacon's Rebellion - 1676
It was significant event in colonial Virginia led by Nathaniel Bacon. Small farmers and others were frustrated with poor economic conditions like high taxes, low prices and good land. Bacon attacked native Americans and friendly colonial officials. They issued declaration of people expressing grievances against the governor and seeking reforms. Death of Bacon in 1676 the ended the rebel. Bacons Rebellion is significant as it revealed the tension related to class, race and political power. -
The founding of Yale
Yale was founded in 1701 in New Haven, Connecticut making it one of the oldest institutions of America . It was established by a congregational church to train ministers and educate young men . Now Yale has grow into one of the prestigious Universities in the world . -
Great Awakening-1720
The Great Awakening is marked as a shift from old traditional religious practices of those times to more emotional and personnel connection to faith. Prominent preachers travelled across colonies and preached followers to reflect on own sins and develop direct connect with God. This has direct impact on traditional institutional based religious culture. People started asking questions to institutions and politicians. Movement played crucial role in shaping the social and religious dynamics. -
Molasses Act-1733
The Molasses act imposed high tariffs on molasses, sugar and rum. The intent of the act was to exert control of import of these commodities from the non-British sources. This has huge impact on American colonies like new Britan which was dependent on raw material for making Rum. This led to illegal supply of the material. American colonies looked this as outside control on their economic activities. The Act was not success with original intent which led to evolution of American revolution. -
Founding of Savannah, Georgia -1733
Founding of Savannah was part of broader strategy to create a new colony in Southern America. General James Oglethorpe, along with group of settlers have strategically selected this site close to Sea to defense against Spanish threats. This is one of the planned cities of America with grid layouts, roads and gardens. Founding of Savannah marked as the beginning of the Georgia Colony. Savannah has become a major port and played crucial role in economic and cultural development of South America. -
Founding of Princeton University- 1746
Princeton university is the fourth oldest institution in united states. Princeton university was founded as the college of New Jersey in 1746. The college was founded by a group of New Light Presbyterians, including Jonathan Dickinson. The college relocated to Princeton in 1756. Princeton university has a rich history and evolved into one of the Ivy League universities. It is recognized for its academic excellence and contribution to various fields of studies. -
Ohio company formed
The main point of the Ohio company was to encourage settlement and trade in the Ohio country. Which was rich in natural resources and important for both economical and military reasons.The British Authority gave Ohio Company a lot of land in Ohio Valley allowing them to sell lands to settlers.There was a competition between the company and French over establishing settlements in Ohio Country, which would contribute in French Indian war. -
French and Indian War
The war started because both British and French wanted to control Ohio River Valley.The war sought from 1754 to 1763 with Native American tribes aligning with either side.British won and the war ended by signing treaty of Paris.The war left Britain in significant debt,contributing to future tensions and taxation policies that played a role in the American Revolution. -
Boston Tea Party 1773
Boston Tea Party is one of the significant events in American history that took place on Dec 16, 1773, it was a political protest by colonist against British tea Act. Per act East India company was granted monopoly on tea sales in colonies. Colonial felt that British government is attempting to assert control and impose taxes without colonial representation. There was protest in several cities. In Boston, a group of colonists, boarded tea ships and dumped 342 chests of tea into the harbor. -
shot heard round the world
British troops got orders on 18th April 1775 to march to Concord and take hold of colonial military supplies.
American patriots rushed towards country sides and warn the colonial militias about the British plan to take hold of the supplies. American revolution against British forces started with battle of Lexinton and Concord. This was the beginning of the armed fight between American colonies and British that led to Declaration of independence and establishment of united states. -
Declaration of Independence
Declaration of Independence was formally adopted on July 04th 1776 by the continental congress. However, it took several weeks for drafting and revising the actual document. The declaration document was made by the team. Thomas Jefferson was the primary author, and he was supported by a team of Five. The document mainly stresses on Philosophy of natural rights, which includes right of life, Liberty and pursuit of happiness. -
Treaty of Paris
Peace negotiation process between America and Britan started in Paris in 1782, This was led by Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay, and the British delegation. Treaty signed on 03rd Sep 1783 has recognized America as independent sovereign nation with boundaries defined. This treaty put an end to military conflict and started process of diplomatic dialogues between Unites States and Great Britan. -
Bill of rights
Bill of rights the first of ten Abetments, of U.S constitution, written by James Madison, he wrote in a way to ratify the constitution. This bill listed specific purpose of telling what the government are prohibited to maintain to their power it also served as symbol of guarantee for personal rights. The main reason to the bill of rights was written to address the concerns and fear of the Anti-Federalist. The bill of rights was inspired by the English bill of rights by Magna Carta. -
Alien and Sedition Acts
Alien Friends Act of 1778 empowers the president of united states to deport and person who is not Citizen of US who is deemed as " Dangerous to peace and safety of country" during peace time. Act also allows president to detain any non-citizen which could be a threat.
Per Sedition act "false, scandalous, and malicious" writings against the U.S. government is considered as offense. This is one of the most controversial acts. This act put controls on writings that may create public unrest. -
Jeffersons Presidency
In 1800 Jefferson become first Democratic-Republican president with peaceful transfer of power from Federalists. During his presidency United States expanded through Louisiana Purchase, Lewis and Clark expedition. 12th amendment was ratified during his tenure modifying the process of electing president and vice president. His tenure also faced some challenges like issues with European powers and handling foreign relations. After completing his two terms in power he chose not to seek third term. -
Louisiana Purchase
During the Presidency of Thomas Jefferson, United States purchased Louisiana territory in 1803 for $15M.This is recognized as landmark purchase doubling the territory of united states. Aquisition of new territory paved a way for famous Lewis and Clark Expedition which focused on exploring new geography, flora, fauna and native Americans.
Louisiana Purchase is considered as one of the major deal which helped United states for further expansion towards west. -
War of 1812 between the U.S. and Britain.
United States declared war against great Britan on 18th June 1812. The main reason for the war was to address key conflicts between two countries related to maritime issues, defending American honor, and safeguarding expansion towards west. The war continued between 1812-1815. War ended with treaty of Ghent restoring pre-war boundaries and addressing the major issues that led to conflict. The war of 1812 is often considered as second war on Independence. -
The Missouri Compromise 1820
Missouri compromise was passed in year 1812. Missouri was admitted as a slave state whereas Maine was admitted as free state thus maintaining the balance of power in senate. Also, line of latitude was established between slave and free states in the Louisiana Purchase region. Missouri compromise was a temporary solution for issues related to Slavery. It helped to maintain balance between free states and slave states. Eventually it deepened the division between North Vs and south states. -
Tariff of Abomination
The tariff of 1828 raised taxes on imported manufactures so as to reduce foreign competition with American manufacturing. Southerners, arguing that the tariff enhanced the interests of the Northern manufacturing industry at their expense, referred to it as the Tariff of Abominations. -
The Indian Removal Act 1830
White settlers wanted to expand towards west creating conflict with Native American tribes. The Purpose of Indian Removal Act was to relocate Native Americans to provide more land to white settlers in fertile southeast region. Act was signed by President Andrew Jackson on May 28th 1830. The act calls for voluntary process through negotiations and treaties but in reality, it was involuntary.
Act is considered as tragic episode in US history relocating native Americans from their native land. -
Texas declares independence from Mexico 1836
Texas was part of Mexico, but tensions were building between Mexican authorities and Texian. the main reason for discontent was centralization of power, and enforcement of Mexican laws. Delegates gathered at Washington for the Convention of 1836 to discuss the future of Texas in the face of discontent with Mexican authorities.
On 02nd March 1836, delegate at Washington has unanimously adopted as Texas as independent sovereign nation. -
Texas Annexation 1845
Texas was originally part of Mexico, got independence in 1836. Texas, right from independence faced the economic challenges and fear of re-concurred by Mexico. Texas always wanted to annex into United states however there were challenges on annexation due to sectional divide over the issue of slavery. Finally, Texas was admitted into union on Dec 29, 1845, which was formalized through joint resolution as a 28th state. Annexation played a role in events leading up to war with Mexico. -
The Mexican American War 1846
Boarder disputes between two nations after Texas Annexation in 1845 led to Mexican-American war. Disagreement on border led to tensions and skirmishes. Major battels were fought between both nations. The war was put two an end with signing treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848. Mexico ceded vast amount of territory to United States including current California and New Mexico. This also led to debate over sectional divide. This is another significant event towards westward expansion. -
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Written by Harriet Beecher Stowe,Uncle Tom's Cabin depicted life of uncle Tom in slavery.This novel sold millions of copies and was praised in north but in south the book faced a lot of criticism and was banned. This novel had a really big impact as it started a political discussions on slavery, even Lincoln credited Stowe as "Little woman who wrote the book that started the Civil War"recogninizing the role her work played. -
Abraham Lincoln is elected President 1860
Abraham Lincoln was elected as the 16th President of united states in 1860. His election played a pivotal role in the lead-up to the American civil war. Nation was divided in to, Southern and Nothern states on issue of slavery. Lincoln has got major support from Northen states. The secession of Southern states and the attack on Fort Sumter was the beginning of the American Civil War. His leadership during the war and efforts to maintain union has big impact on American history. -
The American Civil War 1861-1865
American civil war was a significant and transformational war fought between southern and northern states on key issues of Slavery, state rights and economic differences. Nothern states were industrialized and not supporting the expansion of slavery whereas southern states were Agri based needing more labors. Anti-Slavery sentiments triggered with 1860 elections. War was fought on various fronts and secession of southern states. It resulted in abolition of slavery and maintaining the union. -
The Homestead Act 1862
The purpose of the Act was to increase the westward expansion by providing opportunities to settlers to acquire land in western region with certain criteria to promote farming and support economy. Act was signed on May 20, 1862, during the Civil war. Act played important role in westward expansion of united states by encouraging the movement of diverse group of United States including farmers, immigrants and freed slaves. Natives were adversely affected as their lands were claimed by settlers. -
The Civil War ends 1865
In early 1865 union forces launched series of offensives against Confederate General. Civil War ended officially on April 9, 1865. with the surrender of General Robert E. Lee and the Confederate Army. Terms of surrender were relatively generous. Lee's army was allowed to return home and Grant provided rations to hungry soldiers. Tragically, President Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes on April 14, 1865, just few days after the surrender. Reconstruction efforts started after the civil war. -
Alaska is purchased from Russia 1867
Maintaining and protecting distant territory like Alaska was challenging for Russia. Cost of maintaining the colony, protecting from British encroachment was challenge for Russia. America has strategic interest to expand its territory. Unitted stated started negations with Russia. On March 30, 1867, Russia sold Alaska to United states for $72M through signing treaty of cession. Alaska became 49th state of USA on 03rd Jan 1959. Alaska purchase was key event in US territorial expansion. -
The completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad 1869
First transcontinental railroad was significant milestone in American history, joining the east and west coast. Pacific Railroad act was passed providing federal support to the project. Project was led by two companies and faced major challenges due to terrains, severe weather conditions and labor availability. It has huge impact on ease of transportation, promoting economy and huge social and cultural. The success of the project led to more railroad expansions leading to extensive rail network. -
The 15th Amendment 1870
On 03rd Feb 1870, 15th amendment was ratified aiming at protecting the voting rights of American African men. Following the civil war there was push for reforms with 13th amendment (abolition of slavery) and 14th Amendment (granting equal protection under the law). The amendment prohibited the denial of voting rights based on race, color, or previous enslavement. However, there was some resistance within society as well. This was critical step in expanding democracy. -
The Battle of Little Bighorn 1876
The battle of Little Bighorn reflects clashes between cultures and interest. Tension between Govt and native American tribes rosed due to encroachment on tribal lands, especially in the Black Hills of South Dakota, considered sacred by the Lakota Sioux. Discovery of Gold at black hill raised Govt interest to start mining and displacing the native Americans. Battle was a decisive victory for the Native American and also major defeats for the U.S. Army against Native American tribes. -
The end of Reconstruction in the South 1877
Democrats demanded the removal of federal troops from south as part of compromise during presidential election of 1876. Withdrawal marked the end of the federal government's direct intervention in Southern states and thus ended the Reconstruction efforts. Southern state started discrimination and white supremacy. The gains from post-civil war were eroded leading racial segregation, disenfranchisement, and violence in the Southern states. This is marked as dark chapter in American History. -
The Chinese Exclusion Act restricts Chinese immigration-1882
Construction of Rail network and Economic developments in America, encouraged lot of Chinese laborers to shift. However, economy shifted, and downturn occurred resulted in to growing anti-Chinese sentiments. The act was signed on May, 06th 1882, suspended the immigration of Chinese laborers for ten years and prohibited Chinese nationals from becoming U.S. citizens. This has profound impact on Chinese communities in USA and families separated. -
The Haymarket Riot in Chicago-1886
In Late 19th century labor movements in US were advocating more improved working conditions and 08 hrs work. May, 04th 1886 in Chicago peaceful rally was held in Haymarket square protesting the police actions on striking workers on previous day. Toward end of rally some unknown person exploded bomb on police, killing policemen. In the aftermath leaders were arrested, and judgment was controversial. May1, the day of Haymarket riots is celebrated as Labors Day in United states. -
The Dawes Act-1887
The Primary objective of Dawes act was to encourage native Americans to adopt the agrarian lifestyle similar to those of non-native Americans by assimilation of native Americans into the mainstream. They were allotted the land to practice farming and was tied to granting the Citizenship. However, there were unintended consequences on loss of Tribal communal land. There was lot of opposition from native Americans considering loss of land and attack on culture. -
Wounded Knee - 1890
The wounded Knee Massacre was tragic and crucial event in the history of America that marked end of armed conflict between Native American and Government. US Government viewed Ghost dance movement could create unrest within Natives. In Dec 1890 group of Native tribes were intercepted by U.S Authorities at Wounded Knee creek. Conflict led to firing that killed several native Americans. This is considered as injustice and mistreatment done to native Americans. -
Ellis Island opens - 1892
Ellis Island, located in New York Harbor was opened as center for immigration on Jan1st 1892. It was established as a center to process and inspect the immigrants coming to united states. Immigrants were assessed for medical issues, skills and documents. This center served for many decades before it was closed in 1954, witnessed 12M immigrants. later it was opened as a museum. It is recognized as a historic landmark. It symbolizes immigrants experience and cultural diversity of America. -
Plessy v. Ferguson - 1896
Homer Plessy a man with mixed racial heritage violated the state's separate car act. He sat in a "White-Only" car and refused to move. Plessy was arrested and charged for violating the case. His Legal team challenged the constitutionality of separate car. Supreme court in its judgement mentioned same that facilities for different races does not imply Inequality. "Separate but Equal" doctrine was eventually challenged in 1954 with shift in interpretation of Constitution. -
The first subway system - 1897
The decision to build new and efficient subway system for transportation was mainly driven by heavy traffic congestion. Traditionally horse driven street cars were primarily used for transportation. Tremont street subway was officially inaugurated on 01st Sep 1897. The subway used electric power train as against the traditional way of transportation. Over the period subway was expanded and concept was implemented across various cities as a efficient way of transportation in big cities. -
The Spanish-American War - 1898
This war was primarily fought over the issue of independence struggle of Cuba. Cuba was under Spanish rule for centuries and Cuban rebels were fighting for the Independence. Public opinion and American people sentiments were influenced by yellow journalism. On Feb15, 1898, the US battleship was exploded and sank. Cause of the explosion was unclear however reports blamed the Spanish. United States declared the war and freed Cuba and also won Philippines from Spanish. -
The annexation of Hawaii - 1898
In 1893 Hawaiian Monarchy was overthrown by provisional government. This was supported by US and European nations. President Grover Clevland opposed annexation however government continued to support annexation. In 1897 election of William McKinley as president brough favorable stance for annexation. Breakout of Spanish-American war increased the strategic importance of the island for US. However, there was oppose from both nations. Finaly on Aug 12, Hawaii officially become US territory. -
The Gold Rush in Alaska - 1899
Alaska witnessed multiple gold rushes. Nome rush in 1899, played a crucial role in the economic development and infrastructure of the territory. Gold was found on beaches and extracting gold was relatively easy unlike other gold rushes. Prospectors from world rushed towards Alaska for gold. Prospectors used methods like panning, sluicing to extract the gold from beaches. The gold production was at Nome was substantial and Alaska became one of the major gold producers. -
The Gold Standard Act - 1900
Gold standard act was passed on March 14,1900. This replaced the bimetallic standard of gold and silver to single gold standard. The Act reinforced gold backed currency requiring US government to maintain certain amount of gold reserves at-least equal to 150Million Dolars. It maintained fixed relation between currency and gold making the currency more stable. Gold Standard was in existence for decades unit gold reserve act of 1934 ended the gold standard in United States. -
The first successful airplane
Wright brothers accomplished a historic achievement by successfully flying the world's first powered aircraft. On December 17th, among the windswept dunes of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Orville Wright flew, marking a watershed event in aviation history. Their airplane, the Wright Flyer, took off for a short but revolutionary,spanning 120 feet. With this groundbreaking success, the Wright brothers not only fulfilled their ambition of flying, age of transportation and exploration. -
The Mann-Elkins Act
Passed during Taft's administration, this legislation expanded the Interstate Commerce Commission's (ICC) power over railroad rates. As well as telegraph and telephone businesses.Sought to address rising public complaints about monopolistic behavior and unfair pricing in the transportation and communication industries. The Act took an essential step toward ensuring fair competition and consumer protection in major sectors critical to the nation's economic infrastructure by providing the ICC. -
17th Amendment passed
It marked a big change in the way democracy works in the United States.The 17th Amendment, on the other hand, changed this method by letting the people of each state directly pick Senators.The goal of this constitutional change was to make the federal government more accountable, open, and responsive to the people.Amendment let people were able to directly pick their Senators.Gave voters a bigger say in how the country is run. Its acceptance is still a major turning point in American history. -
U.S entered ww1
The United States tried to stay neutral at first, but a series of events.Germany's open submarine warfare and the famous Zimmermann Telegram,caused it to join the war on the side of the Allies.The American people strongly agreed with the President's call for war that The United States used all of its many resources, such as its people and factories, to help the Allies.U.S moved to western front changed war.The United States' efforts in World War I set the stage for its rise as a global giant -
18th Amendment
It started the era of Prohibition.This change to the Constitution made it illegal to make, sell, or move alcoholic drinks anywhere in the United States.The temperance movement was worried about the social and moral problems that drinking alcohol caused.The amendment tried to improve public health and lower crime and corruption.Prohibition, on the other hand, caused a lot of disagreement led to a booming black market for illegal booze and helped organize crime.The 21st Amendment was ratified it. -
Women rights to vote
19th Amendment was ratified in 1920, it gave women the right to vote. This was a major step forward in the fight for equality and freedom in the United States. Women finally got the right to vote after decades of hard work and support by suffragists across the country. This was a major step toward full political participation and influence. This important change made it illegal to deny someone the right to vote because of their gender. It made women equal citizens in the eyes of the law. -
The Roaring 1920’s
The Roaring Twenties were a very exciting and important time in American history. They were a time of tremendous economic growth, cultural change, and social upheaval. After World War I ended, the United States went through a huge boom that was marked by skyrocketing stock markets, quick industry, and a lot of people buying things. A fresh sense of freedom and hedonism led to the growth of jazz music, flapper fashion, and the Harlem Renaissance. -
Immigration quotas
The Immigration Act of 1924, also called the Johnson-Reed Act, put tight limits on who could come to the United States. This completely changed the country's policy on immigration. The laws were made to limit the number of people coming from Asia and Southern and Eastern Europe. They also favored people coming from Northern and Western Europe. Setting up national origins limits successfully limited immigration, especially from outside of Europe. -
The great depression
The Great Depression of 1929 was the worst economic disaster in history. It hit the US hard and had effects all over the world, running all through the 1930s. The stock market crash in October 1929 set off the Great Depression, a time of widespread unemployment, poverty, and hopelessness across the country. Millions of people lost their savings and homes when banks and businesses shut down. Conditions in the Dust Bowl made the problem worse, especially in farming areas. -
Dust Bowl
The Great Plains area of the United States was hit hard by the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. It was a terrible environmental and economic disaster. The Dust Bowl was marked by severe drought, bad farming methods, and a lot of land loss. It forced hundreds of thousands of farmers and their families to leave their homes. Huge dust storms, which were sometimes called "black blizzards," wreaked havoc on the landscape, covering towns in thick clouds of dust and hurting the environment in many places. -
Prohibition Repeal
In 1933, Prohibition ended. It had been a very troublesome time when making, selling, and transporting alcoholic drinks was illegal across the whole country. The 18th Amendment, which had made Prohibition legal in 1919, was overturned by the 21st Amendment, which was signed into law on December 5, 1933. The change happened because Prohibition mostly failed to do what it was supposed to do, which was to lower crime and improve public health. -
World war 2
Adolf Hitler led Germany into Poland on September 1, 1939, which was the start of World War II. Britain and France spoke out against this move right away, and on September 3, 1939, they both declared war on Germany. The attack on Poland was the start of a war that would affect most of the world and is generally thought to have been the worst in human history. As part of a plan called "Blitzkrieg," or "lightning war," German troops moved quickly during the invasion. -
Pearl Harbor
It was the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, that made the United States join World War II. The Imperial Japanese Navy attacked the American military base in Hawaii without notice, killing many people and putting the Pacific Fleet out of commission. The sudden attack shocked the country and made people want to join the war. In his famous speech, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called December 7 "a date which will live in infamy." -
D day
The largest military attack in history took place on D-Day, June 6, 1944. It was part of Operation Overlord. It was the start of the freedom of German-occupied France and later western Europe. This important military operation also set the stage for the Allies' win on the Western Front in World War II. American, British, Canadian, and men from many other countries made up the Allied forces that planned the attack. They began a huge attack on the French beaches of Normandy. -
Korean War
On June 25, 1950, North Korean forces attacked South Korea with help from the Soviet Union and China. They wanted to unite the Korean Peninsula under communist rule. The sudden and surprise attack quickly made the South Korean troops weak. In answer, the United Nations stepped in to help South Korea, with the United States leading the way. This was the first major military war of the Cold War. -
Brown vs. Board
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka was a landmark Supreme Court case in 1954 that fundamentally transformed the landscape of American education and civil rights. The case was a consolidation of five different cases all challenging the constitutionality of racial segregation in public schools. It was named after Oliver Brown, who was one of the plaintiffs and whose daughter, Linda Brown. -
Montgomery Bus Boycott
In Montgomery, Alabama, on December 5, 1955, the Montgomery Bus Boycott began after Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man, which was against the law at the time. The arrest of Rosa Parks made African Americans even more angry about the unfair segregation laws and practices. The boycott began with the help of a young preacher named Martin Luther King Jr., who later became famous across the country in the civil rights movement. -
Little Rock Nine
There was a group of nine African American students at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957. They were known as the "Little Rock Nine," and they became symbols of the end of segregation in American public schools. This happened after Brown v. Board of Education (1954), in which the U.S. Supreme Court said that racial division in public schools was against the Constitution. -
Cuban Missile Crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis, which happened in October 1962, was one of the most dangerous times in the Cold War. It brought the US and the USSR very close to a nuclear war. American spy planes found that the Soviet Union was putting up nuclear weapons in Cuba, which is only 90 miles off the coast of Florida. This set off the crisis. The U.S. was scared when they found out about this because these rockets could reach big American towns in minutes. -
JFK Assassination
President John F. Kennedy was killed on November 22, 1963. It was a terrible and important event in American history. President Kennedy was shot and killed while going in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. His wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Texas Governor John Connally were also in the motorcade. Two shots hit the president, one in the neck and one in the head. He was declared dead soon after getting to Parkland Memorial Hospital. A lot of people saw the murder. -
Civil Rights passed
It was a big deal when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 into law on July 2, 1964. The law's main goals were to end segregation in public places and to stop discrimination in the workplace based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It was first offered by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, after a series of powerful civil rights protests and rising pressure for change led by people like Martin Luther King Jr. -
Equal Rights Amendment
On March 22, 1972, the U.S. Congress passed the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and sent it to the states to be signed into law. The ERA was meant to make sure that all American people, regardless of gender, had the same legal rights. Its goal was to end the differences in the law between men and women when it came to divorce, property, jobs, and other things. Alice Paul, a suffragist, first suggested the amendment in 1923. -
Watergate Scandal 1972
The Watergate Scandal started on June 17, 1972, when someone broke into the headquarters of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in the Watergate office building in Washington, D.C. This was the start of a big political scandal in the United States. The thieves were later found to have ties to President Richard Nixon's campaign for re-election. They were caught stealing papers and listening in on phones. As the investigations went on, it became clear that the break-in wasn't a one-time thing. -
Energy Crisis of 1973
The Energy Crisis of 1973, also known as the Oil Crisis, began in October when the members of the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) proclaimed an oil embargo, targeting nations perceived as supporting Israel during the Yom Kippur War. The primary targets were the United States and the Netherlands, with the embargo later extending to other countries. This political decision caused a sudden and severe shortage of oil in the affected countries. -
End of Vietnam War
The fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, marked the end of the Vietnam War and a turning point in both Vietnamese and American history. After almost 20 years of deadly fighting that started in the 1950s, this end was reached. The North Vietnamese and the Viet Cong were fighting against the South Vietnamese government and its main partner, the United States. Guerrilla fighting, complicated politics, and the terrible damage the war did to people and the environment made it stand out. -
Camp David Accords
When they were signed on September 17, 1978, the Camp David Accords were a big deal in Middle Eastern negotiations. They were the first peace deal between Israel and Egypt, which is one of Israel's Arab neighbors. Under the leadership of U.S. President Jimmy Carter, twelve days of intense talks took place at Camp David, the presidential getaway in Maryland, leading to this important event. Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat were in the talks. -
Iranian Hostage Crisis
Stormed the U.S. Embassy in Tehran on November 4, 1979, and took 52 American officials and citizens hostage. This was the start of the Iranian Hostage Crisis. The main reason for this action was to protest against the U.S.'s long-term support for Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the recently removed Shah of Iran, who was in the U.S. for medical care. Iranians were very angry that the US was meddling in their internal affairs, especially with the CIA's role in the 1953 coup that put the Shah back in power. -
Presidential election of 1980
The 1980 presidential election was a turning point in American politics. It marked a big change in American politics toward conservatism. The candidates were Democratic President Jimmy Carter and Republican rival Ronald Reagan, who had been governor of California. Carter was chosen president after the Watergate scandal. During his time, he had to deal with many problems at home and abroad, such as high inflation, rising unemployment, and the ongoing Iranian hostage situation. -
Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster
On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded. It is still remembered as one of the worst events in American space history. The Challenger broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Florida, just 73 seconds after takeoff, killing all seven crew members. Christa McAuliffe, a high school teacher from New Hampshire, was one of them. She had been chosen to be the first Teacher in Space. Millions of people watched the accident live on TV. -
Iran-contra Affair
The Iran-Contra Affair was a complex political scandal in the United States that occurred during the second term of President Ronald Reagan's administration. Discovered in 1986, the scandal involved senior administration officials secretly facilitating the sale of arms to Iran, which was then under an arms embargo. The aim was to secure the release of several hostages held by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon and to generate untraceable funds to support the Contra rebels in Nicaragua. -
Gulf War Begins
When a group led by the United States attacked Iraq on January 17, 1991, it was the start of the Gulf War, which was also known as Operation Desert Storm. This was done in reaction to Iraq's attack and takeover of Kuwait in August 1990, which was ordered by Saddam Hussein, the president of Iraq. The attack was strongly opposed by many countries around the world. As a result, the UN Security Council passed a number of decisions calling for Iraq to leave Kuwait right away. -
Fall of the Soviet Union
It was a big turning point in world history when the Soviet Union fell apart in 1991. It was the end of the Cold War. On December 25, 1991, Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev quit, and the Supreme Soviet, which was the top government body in the Soviet Union, formally declared the end of the Soviet Union. The fall was caused by many things, such as economic slowdown, movements for political change, and a series of crises in the member countries that wanted more independence. -
Los Angeles Riots
The Los Angeles Riots of 1992 started when a jury found four Los Angeles Police Department officers not guilty of using unnecessary force when they arrested and beat a black driver named Rodney King. A member of the public recorded the beating of King by police officers after a high-speed car chase. When the video was shown across the country, it caused a lot of anger. When the verdicts were read on April 29, 1992, there was outrage and violence in the streets of Los Angeles right away. -
Bill Clinton’s Presidency
The United States went through a lot of big political and social changes during Bill Clinton's presidency, which began in January 1993. Hillary Rodham Clinton, a Democrat, beat out Republican George H.W. Bush and then an independent candidate named Ross Perot in a close election. During his presidency, he focused on problems at home, such as healthcare reform, welfare reform, and getting the economy going again. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act -
Waco Siege
The Waco Siege of 1993 is one of the most well-known and sad events in recent U.S. history. Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Branch Davidians, a religious group led by David Koresh and based at the Mount Carmel Center near Waco, Texas, got into a fight. The ATF wanted to carry out a search order because of claims of illegal gun ownership and possible child abuse in the property. Things quickly got worse and turned into a violent standoff. -
World trade center bombing 1993
The 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center was a horrible act of terrorism that set the stage for the terrible events of September 11, 2001. They set off a truck bomb in the parking area of the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City on February 26, 1993. The blast went through several floors of the building, killing six people, hurting over a thousand more, and doing a lot of damage to the structure. The attackers, who were connected to extreme Islamist groups. -
Oklahoma City Bombing
The bombing in Oklahoma City in 1995. A truck bomb went off in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on April 19, 1995. There were 168 deaths and hundreds of injuries in the building when it blew up. The attack, which was done by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, shocked the country and showed how dangerous local terrorism can be. McVeigh and Nichols attacked a sign of federal authority to start a revolution. -
Summer Olympics
As the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic Games was celebrated at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, it was a big event in the history of the games. Athletes from all over the world came together to participate in different sports at the Games, which showed a spirit of unity and strength. There was disaster at the event, though, when a bomb went off in Centennial Olympic Park early on July 27, 1996. Two people were killed and more than 100 were hurt in the explosion. -
Impeachment of Bill Clionton
President Bill Clinton was impeached in 1998, which was a big event in American politics. It was only the second time in U.S. history that a living president was put on trial for impeachment. Because of his romance with White House intern Monica Lewinsky and his following efforts to hide it, Clinton was impeached by the House of Representatives on charges of lying and obstruction of justice. The process of impeachment split the country along political lines. Democrats defended Clinton. -
Presidential Election of 2000
The 2000 presidential election was one of the most controversial in U.S. history, and the winner had a very small margin of victory. It came down to a heated argument over the results in Florida, where the race between Republican George W. Bush and Democratic Al Gore came down to the count of the votes. At the end of the election night, Florida was too close to call. This led to a series of lawsuits and recounts that finished with the famous Bush v. Gore Supreme Court ruling. -
9/11 2001
The September 11 attacks of 2001, which are often just called "9/11," were one of the worst events in modern history. On that terrible day, terrorists with ties to the group al-Qaeda took over four commercial airplanes and crashed two of them into the World Trade Center Twin Towers in New York City and one into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Almost 3,000 people died in the planned attacks, which destroyed property and destroyed people's sense of security in the United States. -
Iraq War
The Iraq War, launched in 2003 by a U.S.-led coalition, represents one of the most controversial and consequential military interventions of the 21st century. The primary justification for the invasion was the belief that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and posed an imminent threat to global security. However, subsequent investigations found no evidence of WMDs, raising questions about the legitimacy and rationale behind the decision to go to war. -
Hurricane Katrina
It was one of the deadliest and most damaging natural disasters in U.S. history. The Category 5 storm hit land in Louisiana. The city of New Orleans and the places around it were hit especially hard. The storm's strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surge broke through levees and floodwalls, flooding so badly that about 80% of the city was flooded. Over 1,800 people died and hundreds of thousands had to leave their homes after Hurricane Katrina. -
Financial crisis of 2008
People also called the financial crisis of 2008 "the Great Recession." It was one of the worst economic downturns in modern times. The crisis started when the US housing boom burst, and it had effects all over the world, causing broad financial upheaval, a lot of bankruptcies, and a severe credit crunch. The global financial system's interdependence made the crisis worse. For example, risky mortgage-backed stocks spread through the banking industry and beyond. -
Barack Obama’s Election
In 2008, Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. It was a big moment in American politics. Obama's win broke down race barriers, making him the first African American to be president of the United States. Millions of Americans were moved by Obama's message of togetherness, progress, and acceptance. He ran on a platform of hope and change. His campaign brought together a wide range of followers, including young voters, people of color, and leftists. -
Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), which is often called "Obamacare," was meant to fix long-standing problems in the healthcare system, such as people not being able to afford health insurance, people not being able to get coverage for pre-existing conditions, and rising healthcare costs. The ACA made a lot of changes, like expanding Medicaid, setting up health insurance exchanges, and making it illegal for insurance companies to refuse coverage to people who already have health problems. -
Hurricane Sandy
Hurricane Sandy, which is sometimes called "Superstorm Sandy," hit the northeastern United States in late October 2012 and was one of the worst natural tragedies to ever happen there. Sandy started out as a tropical storm in the Caribbean and grew stronger as it went north. It finally hit land in the United States near Brigantine, New Jersey, which is just northeast of Atlantic City. -
Black lives Matter
Black Lives Matter (BLM) became a strong social organization after George Zimmerman was found not guilty of killing Trayvon Martin, an African American teen in Sanford, Florida. People were outraged by what happened and the decision that followed. This led to a heated discussion about racial targeting and how the criminal justice system treats African Americans in general. -
Same-sex marriage Legalization
In Obergefell v. Hodges, which came out on June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court made a major decision that made same-sex marriage legal in all fifty states. This important ruling said that not letting same-sex couples get marriage licenses went against the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution, which protects everyone equally and gives people a fair chance to follow the law. Before this finding, same-sex marriage was legal in some states because of laws or court decisions.