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The London Olympics
The Summer Olympics were, in some cases, considered one of the biggest highlights of 2012. People from countries all over the world stood together for one event. It was a time of increased tension, but the Olympics represented a chance for change, and the potential for overall peace and unity. People felt grateful and proud that their nations could come together, and hope was present as people sought change for the future.
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-19238284 -
The Taliban
Tensions were high as violence and terrorism continued to grow. The Pakistani Taliban, responsible for the attack on Malala Yousafzai in October, was growing, and becoming an increased threat throughout the entire world. People throughout many different countries feared of what would come from the group and how life would change as the Taliban's influence spread.
[https://www.cnn.com/2012/10/17/world/asia/pakistan-taliban-profile/index.html]((http://www.timetoast.com) -
Pakistani Education
Education in many places across the world was often not considered imperative. In Pakistan, majority of children, mainly girls, were not allowed to go to school because of costs and situations that may have prevented their attendance. Children were not receiving the necessary skills they needed to obtain a career, which is why there was such a big impact.
https://en.unesco.org/gem-report/sites/gem-report/files/EDUCATION_IN_PAKISTAN__A_FACT_SHEET.pdf -
Afghanistan and the United States
The United States and Afghanistan had extremely high tensions for several years. In March of 2012, conflicts and tensions were rising as events took place, like accidental fires and the deaths of Afghan civilians. Citizens believed that issues were beginning to become resolved, but they realized that issues were just continuing to escalate, resulting in the fear of violence and the need for peace negotiations.
https://www.cfr.org/timeline/us-war-afghanistan -
Washington Passes Bill to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
Throughout 2012, same-sex marriage was beginning to grow awareness and support. Change was needed and many states began to pass legislation to call for equal rights. Washington state passed a bill in February, hoping to gain votes for legalized marriages for same-sex couples. By December, the bill was put into place and became law.
https://www.mckinleyirvin.com/resources/same-sex-marriage-parenting-divorce-in-washingto/history-of-marriage-equality-in-washington-state/ -
Aurora, Colorado Shooting
In 2012, violence was not only present in foreign countries but at home in the United States. James Holmes opened fired on a movie theater in July, killing a total of 12 people. The impact was huge, as people lost friends and family, but also came to the realization that violence could happen anywhere, at anytime.
https://abcnews.go.com/US/back-aurora-colorado-movie-theater-shooting-years/story?id=48730066 -
Attack in Libya
In September, a militant group in Libya attacked the CIA Office and the U.S. consulate. Four people died, including Chris Stevens, and it became a representation for citizens around the world that there was terror and violence. Many were worried about the protection given, and feared potential results. The idea of terrorism was beginning to spread, causing civilians to take precautions out of fear.
https://www.cbsnews.com/media/2012s-top-10-moments-in-world-news/ -
The United Nations Meeting for Global Issues
The United Nations has always been a source for issues. In 2012, they met to discuss many of the urgent issues taking place throughout the world. This included economic situations, political situations, or violence in communities. Citizens were grateful for the cooperation between their countries; yet, the situations taking place in the world were a cause for worry and interest as to what would take place.
https://www.un.org/en/ga/67/meetings/ -
The United States of America: Presidential Election
In 2012, the United States was in the middle of an election year, gearing up to elect the new President of the United States. President Barack Obama received the majority of votes, bringing him back to office in a second term in order to face more economic issues in the United States and other countries, violence across the world, and reform. The nation had many issues, but citizens had hope.
https://www.britannica.com/event/United-States-Presidential-Election-of-2012 -
Space Exploration Advancement
Space exploration has always been a major factor of world influence. Chris Hadfield was launched into space to the ISS in December of 2012. Technology grew greatly, so people throughout the world began to understand that this was a big milestone and that influence throughout space, and everyday life, was going to continue to grow.
http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/missions/expedition34-35/default.asp
