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Build-Up to Y2K
Y2K was a popular conspiracy throughout the 90's based on the idea that computers would fail at the turn of the millennium. This conspiracy was easily proven false on January 1st; however, in order to prepare for an event that was never coming, the USA and it's citizens spend over 100 billion dollars to prepare. -
Persian Gulf War
Saddam Hussein, dictator of Iraq, ordered an invasion of Kuwait in order to control their oil supply, Such in invasion would also remove Iraq's reliance and debt to Kuwait. In order to stop Iraq from also invading Arabia, a massive build up of western military of 300k was ordered, resulting in war. The US led a massive aid raid, Operation Desert Storm, eventually resulting in a cease-fire. Afterwards, Hussein remained in power. -
Dissolution of Soviet Union
In the months prior to the dissolution, satellite states under control of the USSR began to rebel without interference from Gorbachev. On Christmas day of 1991, the communist reign of the Soviet Union fell as the Soviet flag bearing the hammer and sickle was lowered for the last time. On the same day of this event, Gorbachev was replaced by Boris Yeltsin; with Boris in charge of the nation, the Soviet Union once again became Russia. -
Election of Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton ran for president using his own money to support his campaign. He accused Bush of being unable to control the economy and promised to help with public work projects. He won with 44 million votes and 370 electoral votes in 1992. -
NAFTA is Formed
Under President Clinton, NAFTA is passed by Congress, a step towards a global economy. It reduced tariff barriers to promote free trade, and was signed by Mexico, Canada, and the US. -
Clinton Deal Preparing Palestinian State
Clinton made a peace between Israel and Palestinians. Together the prime minster of Israel, Yitzhak Rabin, and Yassir Arafat came together and made an outline of the future of Palestinian State. -
OJ Simpson Trial
Simpson, an NFL player and broadcaster, was accused of the murder of Nicole Brown, his ex-wife, as well as her friend Ronald Goldman. Millions of people watched the trial on television, O.J was found not guilty; the trial views were racially split over the verdict of the trial. -
Contract with America
Signed by Republicans running for Congress, the pledge aimed to support conservative reforms limiting federal power and expenditures. Partially due to support from House Speaker Newt Gingrich, the pledge resulted in a Republican electoral victory; however, much of its legislation remained unpassed due to President Clinton's opposition. -
Government Shut Down
When a budget drafted by the Republicans was vetoed by Clinton in 1995, neither side could agree to a compromise; this resulted in the government being shut down from November 3rd to January 6th. -
Bill Gates' Microsoft
Bill Gates created the Windows operating system and web browsers, which were easy to use and made him millions. People worried of the internet becoming monopolized, but over time computers became vital and used greatly in society. -
Bill Clinton Reelection
The government shut down gave a boost to Clinton; as unemployment and inflation rates dropped, his popularity increased. During his campaign, he talked about being prepared for the 21st century, winning 379 electoral college votes verses 159 votes for Bob Dole. -
Clinton's Impeachment
Clinton was accused of sexual encounters with other women, but when under oath, refused to admit to such with Monica Lewinsky, Tapes from a friend of Monica later revealed accuracy of the accusation. The scandal broke loose and Clinton was impeached due to obstruction of justice and perjury; however, he remained in office with 55 to 45 votes against his removal. -
Columbine Attack
2 teenagers armed with automatic weapons went into Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, killing 12 students and a teacher; and more than 30 were injured in the incident as well. This caused widespread anxiety and increases in school security.
