1980

By leahschultz.17

  • US enters minor recession

    Due to the oil crisis of 1979. Unemployment is %6.3

  • "Canadian Caper"

    8 American diplomats escape imprisonment by posing as Canadians and boarding a flight to Zurich, Switzerland

  • U.S. boycotts Moscow Summer Olympics

  • Operation "Eagle Claw"

    U.S. rescue attempt to save hostages in Tehran fails due to mechanical issues with helicopters. 8 U.S. troops killed during a mid-air collision

  • Department of Education begins Operations

    Signed into law by Jimmy Carter on May, 4th. To provide equal educational opportunities for all.

  • 1980 recession ends

    Unemployment is still at %7.8, the highest it has been in four years.

  • The Cable News Network (CNN) is launched

    The first 24hr news channel in the U.S.

  • President Carter signs Proclamation 4771

    Requires 19 and 20 year olds to sign up for peacetime draft in response to Soviet invasion of Afghanistan

  • Ronald Reagan secures Presidential nomination

    Former California governor wins Republican nomination for president at Republican National Convention in Detroit, Michigan.

  • President Jimmy Carter wins renomination

    Jimmy Carter defeats Ted Kennedy for presidential nomination at the Democratic National Convention in New York City

  • Staggers Railroad Act enacted

    Jimmy Carter signs Staggers Railroad Act which significantly deregulates American railroad systems

  • Reagan/Carter debate in Columbus, OH

    Reagan was extremely genial and witty. Reagan leaped ahead in the polls.

  • 1980 Presidential Election

    Ronald Reagan defeats incumbent, Jimmy Carter, exactly one year after Iran hostage crisis starts.