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Jamestown is Founded
Following the hopes of land and for opportunity, 104 settlers from Great Britain landed in Virginia and established the first permanent settlement, Jamestown. They immediately faced problems and 80% died before the natives took pity and showed them how to survive in the New World with their knowledge. Eventually, the settlement would thrive after the discovery of tobacco, which had high demand in Europe. This would be the cradle of the colonies and would be seen as the start of its history -
The headright system is introduced
The increased demand for tobacco, coupled with a shortage of labor, led to the implementation of the headright system by royal officials. Families migrating to farm the land were promised 50 acres, resulting in a notable expansion of the colonies. This initiative not only fueled the growth of bustling towns and industries but also contributed significantly to the development of the colonies and the forging of their unique identity. -
The first slaves arrive
The inception of slavery in North America, though a longstanding human institution since Roman times, became a watershed moment for the continent. This marked the beginning of a brutal era lasting over two centuries, characterized by racial bondage and the dehumanization of a class considered inferior. The consequences reverberated, sparking a war, instances of domestic terrorism, and an ongoing struggle for equality that endures into the present day. -
The First Great Awakening
Religion played a significant role in the lives of the colonists, but it was initially separate and adhered to traditional practices. Seeking a transformation, notable preachers like George Whitefield and Jonathan Edwards emerged. Their impactful sermons, whether focusing on fire and brimstone or the redemptive power of faith and good works, marked the Great Awakening. This period cultivated deep religious commitment and a sense of communal unity among the colonists. -
French and Indian War
The conflict known as the French and Indian War revolved around the valuable Ohio River Valley. It witnessed British forces in confrontation with the French and their Native American allies across the frontier. As the war concluded, the British gained control of all French territory east of the Mississippi, contributing to a substantial increase in British debt. This financial strain prompted renewed attention on the colonies. -
Proclamation of 1763
In an effort to quell frontier clashes, King George III approved the Proclamation of 1763, restricting settlement beyond the Appalachian Mountains. This decision infuriated colonists, who perceived the fertile land as their entitlement and resented external control. The proclamation symbolized the end of salutary neglect and the onset of more direct royal influence in America. Consequently, widespread dissatisfaction emerged. -
The Stamp Act
Following years of salutary neglect, the crown of Great Britain had a renewed interest in the colonies and funding after severely indebted themselves during the French and Indian War. The Stamp Act, passed by Parliament, was meant to alleviate the massive debts and to be more equal, hurting the upper class more than the lower. However, colonists saw this as a threat to the system of government they had established for themselves and fought vehemently against its introduction. -
The Boston Massacre
Amid heightened tensions, troops were dispatched to Boston to protect British establishments. An angry mob directed their ire at a customs house, pelting the sentry with ice and rocks. In the ensuing confusion, a squad rushed to aid their comrade, culminating in a tragic shot that claimed five lives. This incident amplified anti-British sentiments, serving as a catalyst for public outrage and significantly contributing to the momentum of the Revolutionary movement. -
The Boston tea Party
The Boston Tea Party occurred on December 16, 1773, as a protest against British taxation without colonial representation. American colonists, angered by the Tea Act, dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor. This defiant act was a key event leading to the American Revolution, symbolizing resistance to British tyranny and taxation policies. -
Battle of Lexington and Concord
With unrest brewing in Boston and whispers of rebellion spreading, British officers catch news of gunpowder and ammunition being stored in Concord, on the outskirts of Boston. Preceded by several riders, including Paul Revere, the redcoats encounter a band of minutemen at Lexington green where the first shot is heard of the Revolution. After a brief fight, they march to Concord. This fighting would be seen as the start of the American Revolution and commence hostilities. -
The declaration of independence is made
Signed by 56 legislatures from the Continental Congress, the Declaration of Independence formally declared the 13 colonies as an independent nation. Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration was both a list of reasons why the colonies should be separated from the tyranny of the king and a declaration of sovereignty by the government. This document would drastically change world events, making a sovereign nation and for the first time, a colony would openly revolt against the motherland. -
The Battle of Saratoga
Hoping to split New England in 2 and cut off the colonies into 2, General Burgoyne marched south from Canada. However, units under General Horatio Gates moved to intercept him and quickly cut off his attempts to advance. With Burgoyne's army surrounded, General Benedict Arnold launched an attack and would force the surrender of an entire British army, the first in the world. It would show a shifting tide against the British and would cause France to begin to send troops and supplies to America. -
Shays Rebellion
With thousands of former soldiers in debt and being forced into prisons or to sell their farms, Daniel Shays led several men to close courthouses. They hoped to stop the debts from being collected and began to march towards Boston. The wealthy feared them and raised a private army after the government couldn't, and managed to turn back the rebels. The uprising showed the failures of the Articles of Confederation and would directly lead to the Constitution for a stronger government. -
Northwest ordinance
One of the limited successes of the Articles of Confederation, the Northwest Ordinance laid the groundwork for American expansion by creating the Northwest Territory. It not only chartered the territory's government but also provided a mechanism for admitting states into the Union and outlined the rights guaranteed to states by the federal government. This approach persisted well into the 1800s, shaping American expansion efforts and influencing the incorporation of territories for the future. -
The constitution is signed
After heated debate and many compromises, the Constitution was ratified and signed by 39 out of 55 delegates. In it, it details the fundamental laws of the United States and sets up the powers of the government and the branches that would make it up. This document was a massive effort to create a republican democracy and establish a government for the people, by the people, and would see America rise as a democratic nation, one of the few in the world at the time. -
The Bill of Rights is passed
Afraid that the Constitution put too much power into the hands of the federal government, James Madison offered to add 12 amendments to protect personal rights. The Federalists, although opposed to the idea at first, saw it as a way to protect people's sovereign rights while not hindering the effective ability of the government. This would be critical for America as it outlined all the rights of its citizens and its protections from the government. -
The Cotton Gin is created
Eli Whitney is credited with the creation of the cotton gin, a revolutionary device that could produce 10x more cotton than handpicking could in one day. The cotton gin would bring the revival of slavery back into the South and see slavery and cotton as a massive part of the economy in the South. Intended to reduce the amount of labor it took to process cotton, Eli Whitney would end up creating a machine that would bring slavery back into the forefront of the South. -
The election of 1800
Called "The Revolution of 1800", it would be the first time in history that an elected government had been democratically removed from office and replaced peacefully by a member of the opposing ideology. After a string of failures by his government, Adams was deeply unpopular while Jefferson was gaining support among the farmers and artisans. Unable to redeem the Alien and Sedition Acts, Jefferson would win the presidency, creating history with his inauguration and peaceful transfer of power. -
Marbury vs. Madison
After the loss of the election to Jefferson, Adams appointed new judges right before leaving but was unable to deliver them. Madison finds this, and withholds the positions, refusing to deliver them. Marbury sues Madison, and, Marbury is allowed to have his position as a judge. However, the Supreme Court under Marshall gained the power of Judicial Review, claiming a part of the Judiciary Act is unconstitutional. This would see its use for the first time and create a more powerful JudiciaryBranch -
The Louisiana Purchase
Hoping to secure the vital Mississippi and port that served as the lifeblood for the Midwest and South, Thomas Jefferson sent Monroe $3 million to go and buy the port of New Orleans. Napoleon is hardly interested in that but offers to sell all of Louisiana to Jefferson for $15 million. Jefferson debated this idea for days, and after setting aside his personal beliefs, he agreed to the purchase and doubled the size of the US in one purchase. -
The steamship is created
Created by American inventor Robert Fulton, the steamship revolutionized trade in America and turned the Mississippi into a highway. Originally, rafts were floated down the river and into New Orleans where goods were sold, but steamships allowed for goods to travel up and down the river at any time throughout the year without the problems of currents. It would push river commerce farther than ever before and would lead to a rise in canals as well, before the railroads were laid in earnest. -
War of 1812
The War of 1812 was fought for several reasons. Following reports of the impressment of US sailors by the Royal Navy, as well as hopes for territorial expansion mixed with defending US pride and influence, James Madison declared war on Britain. The US was hardly prepared, and would watch the White House burn from a British attack, but would ultimately end in a white peace. The only side to lose was the Indians, who allied with the British and were destroyed. -
Battle of new Orleans
Although a peace treaty had been signed, news had not reached the British army that was heading to Louisiana. Hoping to defend the vital city of New Orleans, General Andrew Jackson gathered a ragtag force of militia, pirates, and regular infantry. After constructing defenses, the Americans would repulse attacks by the British forces and would see almost 1000 British die. It was a stunning victory that would boost Jackson to fame and build his reputation for his presidential campaign. -
The Missouri Compromise
In response to the escalating crisis over the delicate power balance between slave and free states, Henry Clay orchestrated a compromise to save the nation. This agreement involved the admission of Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, establishing that all territory north of Missouri's southern border would be designated as free soil. The Compromise's objective was to preserve the fragile equilibrium between the North and South. -
Monroe Doctrine
In response to concerns about European influence in the Americas and with the goal of extending American dominance, President Monroe issued a doctrine. The Monroe Doctrine declared that European nations were forbidden from intervening in the affairs of the Western Hemisphere. It explicitly warned against any efforts at colonization or the reclamation of independent states, making it clear that such actions would be met with hostility. -
Second Great Awakening begins
Led by Charles Finney and Lyman Beecher, a generation of preachers emphasized goodwill and social responsibility. They viewed the church as a force for change and advocated for personal connections with God, resonating with the people. This movement not only fostered unity in America but also influenced religion, sparking social changes like abolitionism, women's rights, and temperance movements. -
Indian Removal Act
Signed into law by Andrew Jackson and declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, the Indian Removal Act allowed the government to take Indian land in the East in exchange for western lands. Jackson, already opposed to the Indians, used public opinion to allow for white settlement of the fertile land many tribes owned. This would see 25 million acres taken and open to white settlement, creating massive tracts of land and leading to forced removal and genocide of many Indian groups -
Nullification Crisis Begins
Following the imposition of major tariffs to bolster U.S. manufacturing, South Carolina countered with the Nullification Ordinance, rendering the federal tariff null and illegal. President Andrew Jackson, irate, sought congressional approval for military intervention against a state. Simultaneously, Henry Clay brokered a compromise to reduce the tariff and prevent secession. This crisis underscored the federal government's dominance over state governments. -
The Alamo
Following a declaration of independence by Texas, Santa Anna moved into Texas and attacked the small mission called the Alamo. Defended by 250 Americans, including Senator Davy Crockett, they would fight off the Mexican army for 13 days before being completely overwhelmed by troops. Every defender would perish, and it would garner massive sympathy for the Texan cause in America, as well as rallying Texans. -
Invention of the steel plow
Iron plows were originally used to till up the soil during colonial times, but as America pushed west, the need for a better plow became apparent. John Deere would fix this with the invention of the steel plow, which enabled farmers to cut deeper, was more durable, and prevented sod from clumping to the blade. This invention would allow for far greater productivity and harvests, and would see extensive use in the west for its ability to cut underneath the roots of grasses for planting -
Panic of 1837
Following Andrew Jackson's war against the First National Bank, his attempts to supplement it turned into a disaster. Although he would leave office before the Panic of 1837, Jackson's use of specie in exchange for gold would see economic ruin devastated America well into the 1840s. It would damage the West even more, as land speculation out west and the use of specie would crash the system and destroy the Democratic Party, leading to the rise of the Whigs who would dominate for 2 decades. -
The Atomic Bomb is dropped
Following almost 4 years of war and death totals that shocked the world, the US government needed a different way to end the war in the Pacific. Military analysts believed that 250,000 US soldiers would have to die to take the home island of Japan, but the decision was made to drop the bomb on Hiroshima. The blast was to end the war and see the effects of this devastating weapon. Made by Dr. Oppenheimer, the bomb would kill an estimated 80,000 civilians and see the world enter the Atomic Age. -
Mexican-American War
After letting Texas claim its independence, Mexico became the target of Polk's expansionist ideas. After sending in troops on a border excursion, Polk declares war when they are shot by the Mexicans who were sent in to contest them. The US army began to defeat the Mexicans in battle after battle, ending with the Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo. The war would see America become a bicoastal nation and open up new trade opportunities while expanding America. -
The Gold Rush
The California Gold Rush began with the discovery of gold in the river by James Marshall, who was building a sawmill. Soon, thousands of settlers and prospectors came flooding into California to find a piece of gold and strike it rich, but most would leave empty-handed. It would help to develop the ports and the West Coast through the massive population boom and expansion of trade, as well as bringing thousands of Chinese immigrants, which meant expansion and population growth with it. -
Compromise of 1850
In the face of another congressional crisis that risked tearing the union apart, Henry Clay once again played a pivotal role in averting disaster. His proposed compromise included the admission of California as a free state, the enforcement of a stricter Fugitive Slave Act, and the establishment of the Utah and New Mexico territories. Although the compromise succeeded in preserving the nation's unity, the contentious Fugitive Slave Clause garnered little support in the North. -
Dred Scott Case
Born into slavery and later brought to Wisconsin by his master, Dred Scott sued for freedom, arguing that residing in a free state should liberate him. Despite this, the Supreme Court ruled against him, asserting that he must remain enslaved even in a free state. The Court also declared the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional. This decision sparked considerable Northern outrage, challenging the idea of states' freedom and energizing abolition movements with significant government support. -
Harpers ferry raid
A passionate abolitionist and veteran of Bleeding Kansas, sought to instigate a slave uprising by seizing weapons stored at Harpers Ferry. Leading a group of 13 men, he successfully obtained the arms, but the situation took a turn when troops under Robert E. Lee surrounded the armory and engaged in a deadly confrontation. Brown met his end through execution for treason. His demise was quietly mourned in the North, marked by the ringing of bells, intensifying Southern anger. -
Lincoin is elected
Lincoln was chosen as the nominee for the new Republican Party. He was skilled at debate and would thrash his opponents with logic and reason. He saw slavery as an evil but had no desire to abolish it in any state, just to prevent it from spreading. He would win the election off a split vote, and this would plunge the nation into crisis. The South feared he would take away their slaves, and succeeded in preventing him from doing so. -
Confederates fire on Fort Sumter
After Confederate states declared secession, President Lincoln directed the resupply of a fort to prevent its capture by the Confederacy. In response, Confederate troops under P.T. Beauregard initiated an attack on the fort, seeking to force the undersupplied Union troops inside to surrender. Despite the Union's refusal and counterfire, relentless bombardment ultimately compelled their surrender. This marked the onset of the Civil War, symbolizing the beginning of open hostilities. -
Homestead act of 1862
With an eye toward the future, Congress implemented the Homestead Act to stimulate westward expansion and cultivate the vast Western territories for farming and ranching. Under the act, households paying an $18 filing fee could claim 160 acres, provided they committed to farming and enhancing the land over a 5-year period. This incentive triggered a significant migration as thousands sought to secure land and explore new prospects in the Great Plains and beyond. -
Battle of Gettysburg
Bolstered by his victory at Chancellorsville, Lee decided to move north to threaten Washington D.C., and attempt to force an end to the war. After arriving at Gettysburg, He would find a strong Union force under General Meade prepared to stop his advance into Pennsylvania. After 3 days of bloody battle, Lee would lose 1/3 of his fighting force and force him into a retreat back into the South towards Richmond. This would be the bloodiest multi-day battle of the war and see 75,000 men die. -
Emancipation
Hoping to end slavery once and for all in America, Abraham Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing any slaves outside of union territory. This would mean once the union army arrived, then the slaves would be considered freed people and would be able to do as they please. However, this didn't free slaves in border states or US-controlled territory, but it would keep foreign powers out of the war as well as pave the way for the 14th amendment that would ultimately free them -
Lee surrenders
After almost 4 years of bloody fighting that would be the costliest in American history, Lee is trapped at Appomattox Courthouse by Grant. Realizing the situation and that he has no supplies left, Lee surrenders to Grant and orders his troops to disarm, effectively ending the Civil War. This moment saw the end to the bloodshed and prevented Lee from resupplying and continuing to fight, something that would have dragged the conflict on even more. It would also effectively end the Confederacy -
Indian Wars renew in the 1860's
Although sporadically at conflict for over 200 years, the Indian Wars saw great violence in the 1860s and forward as settlers began to push onto Indian land. Attempting to force tribes onto reservations and destroying the buffalo herds, Indians began to push back against the settlers who threatened to destroy their lives This would see many massacres committed by white settlers against tribes of Indians and cost thousands of dollars and lives as the government fought battles across the plains. -
completion of the Transcontinental Railroad
Thought to be impossible by many and foolish by some, the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad is one of the biggest achievements in american history. It linked the east and west of America and allowed for massive amounts of goods and passengers to travel along it, linking together the nation. It would help to incorporate the west into american economics and would create a stronger economy and nation. It would also mark a massive railroad boom for the nation, binding it together more. -
15th Amendment
In a bid to maintain influence in the South and safeguard the rights of freedmen, Congress enacted the 15th Amendment. This groundbreaking amendment ensured the right to vote for all males, irrespective of their skin color or prior bondage. While causing significant controversy in both the North and South, the amendment marked a pivotal moment by granting civil rights to freedmen. This newfound protection spurred extensive political engagement among African Americans. -
Yellowstone national park is founded
The world's first national park, Yellowstone was the product of both big companies and efforts to conserve the West. Some feared the extensive development of the West was leading to the destruction of many landscapes, while railroads saw it as a way to attract tourists and raise money. Authorized by Grant, it protected 2 million acres and would create the first national park, something that attracted millions of tourists through the railroads, encouraging tourism and exploring the west -
Panic of 1873
Following years of extensive spending and corruption by government officials, The US was shaken by a massive depression that destroyed the economy. The spending and crash in Europe would see unemployment rise and the price of grain fall, leading to many desperate people beginning to beg as the wealthy feared a breakdown in order. The Panic would see the power of the republicans begin to wane as well as help to end reconstruction as the development policies began to fall apart from no funding -
Reconstruction ends
Following years of bitter internal conflict with southern politicians and common men alike, troops are removed from the South, ending Reconstruction. Originally, the south was split into 5 military sectors covered by US troops who protected freedmen's rights and laws. However, the election of Rutherford B. Hayes saw a deal that would remove troops protecting Reconstruction, allowing Democrats and extremists to control of the states, which would enact Jim Crow Laws and ended government oversight -
Dawes act
The Dawes Act, passed in 1887, was a double edged sword used against the Indians. In name, it meant to protect the land rights of the indian people by offering them the 160 acre lands whites had, but it took from the reservations and would destroy the tribal culture. It would do little to protect the land, as over 97 million acres were taken by whites while indian culture began to degrade as they were forced to settle. This act would be one way America attempts to Americanize the indian people. -
The U.S. enter WW1
Following the Zimmerman Telegram and the sinking of the Lusitania with Americans on board, Woodrow Wilson asks Congress to vote to declare war on Germany. The US was already more inclined to supporting the British, who had accounted for $30 billion in trade revenue versus the Germans $1 billion and had been actively neutral while preparing for war. The US entering the war would serve as the final straw that would serve to break the Central Powers ability to wage war and would ultimately end WWI. -
Plessy vs. Ferguson
The 14th Amendment's Equal Protection Clause triggered debates, exemplified in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). Despite Homer Plessy's argument against segregated train cars, the Supreme Court's "separate but equal" doctrine upheld racial segregation. This decision led to Jim Crow laws, institutionalizing inequality until Brown v. Board of Education (1954) overturned it. -
USS Maine expolsion
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Battle of San Juan Hill
The Battle of San Juan was a key clash during the Spanish-American War in 1898, where US forces stormed San Juan Hill, led by Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders. The victory helped secure control of Cuba, paving the way for the end of Spanish colonial rule in the Americas. -
Teddy Roosevelt becomes President
Theodore Roosevelt became President of the United States in 1901 after the assassination of William McKinley. As a progressive leader, he advocated for trust-busting, conservation, and consumer protection. His presidency was marked by bold reforms and an assertive foreign policy, earning him a place among America's most influential leaders. -
Anthracite Coal Strike
Teddy Roosevelt's involvement in the Anthracite Coal Strike of 1902 signaled a pivotal moment, showcasing government support for workers' rights. Faced with the owners' refusal to negotiate, Roosevelt warned of potential military intervention to ensure fair treatment. His action pressured mine owners into compromise, leading to improved conditions for workers and highlighting a shift towards increased government involvement in labor disputes. -
Invention of the airplane
In Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, 2 bicycle shop owners and brothers flew the first heavier-than-air aeroplane. Since they were kids, they had been fascinated with toys that would spin blades using rubber bands. They used this idea to come up with the model that would be the Wright Glider, a powered and manned plane that could get off the ground. Their success would mean the creation of one of the biggest modern inventions and would be though history in everything from commercial flights to war. -
The 20th Amendment is passed
With more and more people supporting the Temperance Movement, Congress is pressured to pass the 20th Amendment to ban liquor. Very quickly, government agencies began to raid liquor warehouses and pour the alcohol into the sewers and streets, but would quickly be replaced by illegal bootleggers. the Mafia sprang up as a source of illegal booze, and speakeasies that acted as hidden bars became the normal. Crime and corruption became rampant, and the 20th Amendment gave rise to organized crime. -
Upton Sinclair writes "The Jungle"
"The Jungle" was a short book written by the socialist journalist Upton Sinclair about the gross horrors of the meatpacking industry and the awful conditions that migrant workers experience in the factories. The story details how rats, diseased meat, odd meats, and even fingers would be ground up with beef and served to consumers, shocking the nation. The story would be so shocking that Teddy Roosevelt would pass the Pure Food and Drug Act to make sure that food is up to standards for consumers -
Henry Ford introduces the Model T
Henry Ford introduced the Model T in 1908, revolutionizing the automobile industry. It was the first affordable, mass-produced car, making automobile ownership accessible to the average American. The Model T's assembly line production dramatically reduced costs and production time, shaping modern manufacturing and transportation. -
NAACP is formed
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is America's oldest and largest civil rights organization. It was formed in New York City by white and Black activists and serves to help those who experience racism or race violence through legal and advisory services. It also serves to help those who are economically and financially challenged and to try and reform the systems that serve African Americans. It was one of the leaders of the Civil Rights movement in the 1960s with MLK -
The breakup of standard Oil
In 1911, the US Supreme Court ordered the breakup of Standard Oil, founded by John D. Rockefeller, under the Sherman Antitrust Act. This landmark ruling dissolved the company into smaller entities, aiming to prevent monopolistic practices and promote competition in the oil industry. -
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in NYC was the site of a devastating fire in 1911. Due to unsafe working conditions and locked exits, 146 workers, mostly young immigrant women, died. This tragedy led to labor reforms and improved workplace safety standards. -
Armistice is signed
After 4 years of brutal and bloody war that has rocked the world, an armistice is signed by the Allies and the Central Powers on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. Americans took to the streets to celebrate the end of the war that took the lives of 116,000 American soldiers and military personnel. Armistice Day is celebrated even to this day and was changed to Veterans Day to remember all those who served, but had its roots in the ending of the first massive modern war. -
The 19th Amendment is ratified
After almost 200 years of attempts by reformers to give women the right to vote, the 19th Amendment was finally passed, giving the right to vote to women. The events of WWI and women entering the workforce had shows the need to reform in this area, and major pushes by reformers to grant them the right to vote. WWI had also shown how women could step up and do jobs traditionally done by men, breaking down the gender stereotypes of the time. In all, it was a major step on the progressive journey. -
Immigration act of 1924
After decades of immigrants coming in waves, and with many sick of the "new immigrant" that had come, Congress passes legislation to set quotas on immigrants. The quota allowed for immigration to two percent of the total number of people of each nationality in the US as of the 1890 census. This was significant as it lowered the quotas for many southern and eastern countries, favoring western and protestant countries far more heavily. It wold also ban all Chinese but only limited Japanese people. -
Invention of the Television
A farm boy from Utah, Philo Farnsworth was fascinated by engineering and by creating things with his hands. . He found the inspiration for the tv when working among the fields, imaging how you could line up images and photons like rows of crops. He would debut his TV in 1927 and would change the world. Tv's are in billions of homes throughout the world and are the leading source for news and entertainment. Hs invention allowed people to see things never seen before and bring lives to your home. -
Black Tuesday
After almost a decade of large scale spending and economic boom, the Roaring 20's came to an end when the stock market crashed on Tuesday, October 29th. Stocks plunged as investors panicked and pulled money out, or lost everything after buying on the margin. Panic turned into chaos as normal people began to pull money out of banks, fearing a crash that would end up wiping out a third of the banks in America. This infamous day would plunge the US into the grips of the worst Depression in history. -
Franklin D. Roosevelt becomes President
After almost 4 years of Depression, the American people put FDR into office to help change the course of the Depression. FDR responded with enthusiasm, passing a flurry of legislation in his first 100 days that would earn him a reputation as a reformer. He would pass major financial reform, create the FDIC and other government bureaus that aimed at preventing and recreating the economy of the US. He is credited with pulling the US out of Depression and creating the modern government of today. -
The Hoover Dam is finished
Considered one of greatest engineering feats of modern history, the Hoover Dam provides flood control, reliable source of water for farmers, and electricity for nearly 1.3 million people. Planned by Herbert Hoover while he was the secretary of commerce, the dam would be a major feat that would help to electrify the west and assist the drought prone farmers that rely on the river for water. It would be one of the biggest part of the New Deal and would employ thousands, giving many workers jobs. -
Neutrality Act of 1939
With another war looming in Europe and fears of the US being dragged into war, FDR passes the Neutrality Act of 1939. It banned the export and sale of weapons to warring countries and from American passengers to travel on
their ships. It also banned foreign made weapons from being cargo on American ships. It was a step towards the isolationist policy that many Americans supported mixed with the memories of the chaos that had been caused by US trade policy between European nations during WWI. -
Pearl Harbor is attacked
Following months of tense negotiations about Japan's imperial expansion, Japan believes war with the US is inevitable and launches a surprise attack on the US Pacific fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor. Attacking with over 200 fights and bombers, Japan would kill over 2,000 and sink 18 ships, including the 8 battleships in the harbor. This attack would see the US enter WWII the very next day and would see a crippled US fleet try and contest the power of the Japanese Navy for control of the Pacific -
Operation Overlord begins
The largest amphibious assault in the history, Operation Overlord began with D-Day. With over 100,000 troops taking part in the battle, soldiers from Canada, the US, and Britain attacked the 5 beaches that made up Normandy. The goal was to push up the beach and to break the hold of the Nazis on mainland Europe. The soldiers would encounter stiff resistant and would take 10,000 casualties, but would ultimately push off the beach and take key towns with the help of already deployed paratroopers. -
The United Nations is formed
the brainchild of FDR and Joseph Stalin, the United Nations was meant to be an organization to govern world commerce and to maintain international peace. The UN would have representatives from every nation in the world and would have a security council made up of the big 5 from after WWII, US, Britain, France, Soviet Union, and China. It has been effective in helping with international crises such and protecting the sovereignty of nations, like during the Korean War when UN troops were deployed. -
The Marshall plan is signed
With Europe left in a devastated mess after WWII and fearing the rise of Communism, Truman authorizes the plan by George Marshall to loan millions of dollars to the nations in western Europe destroyed by war to help rebuild their economy and government. The plan would help start the rebuilding of many European countries such as France and Germany that were devastated by bombings. The plan would be a major success and create democratic, stable, and economically viable countries without communism -
Berlin Airlift Begins
The Berlin Airlift was a massive humanitarian effort to supply West Berlin by air after the Soviet Union blockaded land routes. Western Allies airlifted food, fuel, and supplies to the city, sustaining its residents and demonstrating resolve against Soviet aggression during the early Cold War. -
Nato is formed
NATO, or the North Atlantic Trade Organization, was created to serve as a force against the growing threat of the Soviet Union. Originally made up off western European countries, the US, and Canada, NATO served as a major point for cooperation in the west through both trade and mutual defense pacts that are in place today. This counter to the Soviet Union would also see a greater emphasis placed on allies and would see a flurry of diplomatic activity to try and secure allies by both sides. -
Korean War begins
After several years of being split in half by different ideologies, North Korea crosses the 39th Parallel and invades South Korea. The US and UN very quickly mobilized troops and arrived in Korea, where they encountered ferocious fighting. Eventually, a counterattack would push the North Koreans back to the very border with China, where the Chinese made a surprise attack and pushed US troops back to the 39th parallel. Peace talks yielded an armistice that would allow both countries to exsist. -
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education (1954) was a landmark US Supreme Court case that declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional. This decision overturned the "separate but equal" doctrine of Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) and marked a crucial step in the Civil Rights Movement, leading to desegregation in schools and other public facilities. -
National Interstate and defense
The National Interstate and Defense Highways Act, signed in 1956 by President Eisenhower, authorized the construction of the interstate highway system in the United States. It aimed to enhance national defense by providing efficient transportation routes and boost economic growth by facilitating interstate commerce and travel. -
Cuban missle crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis was a tense confrontation between the US and Soviet Union when the Soviets deployed nuclear missiles in Cuba. The US demanded their removal, leading to a standoff. Eventually, a compromise was reached: the Soviets withdrew missiles from Cuba, and the US pledged not to invade. It was the closest the world came to nuclear war during the Cold War. -
John F. Kennedy is assassinated
John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, was assassinated on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. He was shot while riding in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza. Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested for the shooting but was killed days later by Jack Ruby. The assassination shook the nation and led to widespread conspiracy theories. -
Civil rights act of 1964
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark legislation in the United States that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It ended segregation in public places and employment discrimination. It was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, aiming for equality and justice for all citizens. -
American Troops land in Vietnam
American troops began arriving in Vietnam in significant numbers in the early 1960s, escalating the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War. Initially sent as advisors to support South Vietnam against communist forces, their presence grew rapidly, eventually reaching over half a million troops by the late 1960s. This marked a pivotal moment in the conflict, shaping its course and intensity. -
Martin Luthur King is assassinated
Martin Luther King Jr., the prominent civil rights leader, was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was shot by James Earl Ray while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel. King's assassination sparked nationwide outrage and led to riots in many cities. It was a tragic loss that deeply impacted the Civil Rights Movement and American society. -
First man on the moon
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to set foot on the moon during NASA's Apollo 11 mission. As he stepped off the lunar module, Armstrong famously declared, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." This historic achievement marked a monumental moment in human history, showcasing the power of science, technology, and human determination. -
Title IX is signed
Title IX, enacted in 1972, prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational program or activity receiving federal funding. It has been instrumental in promoting gender equality in sports, education, and other areas, opening doors for women and girls to access opportunities previously unavailable to them. -
Nixon resigns from office
Richard Nixon resigned as President of the United States on August 8, 1974, amid the Watergate scandal, which involved the cover-up of illegal activities by his administration. Facing impeachment, Nixon stepped down, becoming the first and only U.S. president to resign from office. His resignation marked a significant moment in American political history, leading to changes in transparency and accountability in government.