-
Jamestown
Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America, was founded in 1607. It played a prominent role in the establishment of the thirteen colonies. At first, the settlement struggled with hardships such as disease and conflict with Native Americans but soon grew due to tobacco. -
Separatists arrive at Plymouth: Mayflower Compact
The Pilgrims, or so-called separatists, arrived at Plymouth in 1620. They were seeking religious freedom from the Church of England. The Separatists established the Plymouth Colony, although they faced many troubles, they ultimately laid down the foundation for the principles of self-government and religious tolerance in America. -
First Great Awakening
The First Great Awakening was a religious movement that grew nationwide in the 1730s and 1740s. It highlighted a personal and emotional connection with God. It inspired a widespread spiritual awakening, creating new religions, and influencing societal changes in many of the years to come. -
Albany Congress
The Albany Congress occurred in 1754, this meeting brought together colonial representatives to discuss mutual defense during the French and Indian War. The meeting also discussed alliances with other Native Groups. Its main purpose was to unite the colonies under a single body, proposing the Albany Plan of Union, however, the plan did not pass. -
Start of French and Indian War
The French and Indian Wars' main cause was rooted in the competition between the Indians/French and the British. Many arguments over territory in the Ohio Valley and conflicting alliances with the Natives led to high tensions. This war led to and began the Seven Years' War. In 1756 war spread all over the world, and turned the two countries into an all-out battle for Imperial dominance. -
Treaty of Pairs
The Treaty of Paris ended the French and Indian War. The ultimate reason was to establish peace between the two nations, Britain and France. In the treaty, France had to give all land from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River. This reshaping of territories had major effects on the colony. -
Sugar Act
The Sugar Act of 1764 was a British law aimed at increasing revenue from the American Colonies. This act replaced the Molasses Act and lowered taxes on sugar...although still very high. The Sugar Act was one of several measures that contributed to the growing separation in the American colonies and led to further conflicts with Britain. -
Daughters of Liberty
The Daughters of Liberty were a group of colonial women who boycotted the Stamp Act. These women played a major role in the American Revolution. The Daughters of Liberty participated in events such as boycotts, and protests. This group of colonial women were very influential symbols in the early part of the American Revolution. -
Stamp Act
The Stamp Act of 1765, forced colonists to pay taxes on various paper goods in American Colonies. The Stamp Act included taxes on letters, legal documents, notaries, etc. This act had major resistance and led to political groups, sons of liberty, daughters of liberty, and many other political activism and speeches made by colonists. -
Quartering Act
The Quartering Act passed in 1765, required American colonies to provide housing and supplies to British troops. This law not only raised tension between the British and the Colonists but also became a main point of the problems with King George. This act proved that the British Government still had much power over the Colonists. The Quartering Act was an important factor that led to the Revolutionary War. -
Boston Massacre
The Boston Massacre of 1770 was a very important turning point in the American Revolution. As British soldiers faced opposition from the colonists, they grew angry and eventually opened fire. This resulted in the deaths of five colonists, one of which being, Crispus Attucks. The Boston Massacre played a key role in the beginning of the Revolutionary War, as it arose higher tensions between the colonists and British. -
Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party of 1773 was an important leading factor that ultimately pushed for the start of the Revolutionary War. Colonists were enraged by the newfound tax on tea made by the British Government. This tea represented a million dollars in tax revenue. It was an act of defiance from the Colonies that led to the intolerable acts and the closing of the Boston ports and much more. -
Battles of Lexington and Concord
The Battles of Lexington and Concord, fought on April 19th, 1775 marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War. Many Colonists prepared for revolution in Concord. British tried to seize the stores of Colonists' supplies to take away any chance of rebellion. As the British stopped in Lexington, militiamen were there to fight. 700 British soldiers opened fire on 77 militiamen. When the British made it to Concord all the weapons were gone. 1500 militiamen swarm the British, killing 250 soldiers. -
The Second Continental Congress
The Second Continental Congress of 1775 took place in Philadelphia. All thirteen colonies sent delegates to the Second Continental Congress a month after Lexington and Concord. It was led by John Hancock and helped to create a committee to deal with foreign nations, create paper currency, appoint a general to lead them and establish a continental army. The Second Continental Congress helped to serve as a government during the Revolutionary War. -
Battle of Bunker Hill
The Battle of Bunker Hill was the first official battle of the Revolutionary War. The British troops were well-trained, equipped, and outnumbered the Colonists by far. Although the Colonists lost this battle they caused many British casualties. This battle represented the Colonists' determination, but Congress struggled to get the Colonists to commit to the army and supply army. -
Common Sense
Common Sense was a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine. Paine wrote "Common Sense" to lay out a passionate case for independence in the language of the common people (the vernacular). It emphasized independence and influenced the Continental Congress to eventually write and publish the Declaration of Independence in July of 1776. -
Deceleration of Independence was signed
The Second Continental Congressed introduced the Decleration of Independence, and was offically signed on July 4th, 1776. It used ideas from the European Enlightenment, and marked an important factor by the American colonies for independence. The Decleration of Indepencece, offically declared that the U.S was a free and independent country. -
Battle of Saratoga
The Battle of Saratoga marked a turning point in the Revolutionary War. The British planned to move south and meet up with two other British armies and trap the Continentals. This ended up turning on them and the Continental Army trapped the British, and the British were forced to surrender. This was a significant achievement as it leveled the playing field. The Continental Army was able to gain more supplies from the British troops, this helped the morale of the colonists go up. -
French Join the Revolutionary War
The French Joining the Revolutionary War was the main turning point for the Revolutionary War. Benjamin Franklin had been in France to gain an ally and support the colonies in the war. The French wanted revenge for the Seven Years' War, and news of Saratoga shocked them and convinced them to join. This ultimately led to the Colonists' victory and independence from Britain. -
Battle of Yorktown begins
The Battle of Yorktown was the last battle of the Revolutionary War. The British retreated to Yorktown, Virginia for the winter, unaware that the French Navy was there and ready to defeat them. When the British arrive they are greeted by the French Navy on the water and the continental army on land. This was the last major Battle of the Revolutionary war and led to a colonists' victory. -
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris, signed in 1783 officially ended the the Revolutionary War. This treaty forced the British to recognize the Colonies as an independent country. The new U.S.A. was granted all land between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mississippi River and north to British and Canada. -
Shay's Rebellion begins
Shays Rebellion, organized by Daniel Shay was a rebellion in response to the massive war debts having to be paid off. As Massachusetts raised taxes fivefold, Shay organized a group of 5,000 men to rebel against it. It shined a spotlight on the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. -
Constitution is written/signed
With the newfound light that was shone on the Articles of Confederation, there was a call for a Constitutional Convention. Two Plans emerged, the New Jersey Plan, and the Virginia Plan, both of these plans established a strong central government. With these two different plans, they came upon the Connecticut Compromise. The Constitution was signed in 1788 and went into effect in 1789. -
George Washington is inagurated
George Washington was inaugurated in 1789. George Washington was the first president of the newfound U.S.A. George was inaugurated as he was an important leading general whom the people listened to and liked. Washington established many government precedents. -
Establishment of presidential cabinet
The Establishment of Presidential Cabinet of 1789. The Constitution allows for the Congress to create departments within itself to help the president, this would be known as the cabinet. The first presidential cabinet had four departments: secretary of state, secretary of war, secretary of treasury, and attorney general. -
Bill of Rights is ratified
The Bill of Rights was ratified by December 15, 1791. Troubles with only Federalists supporting the constitution led to a compromise that the first ten amendments would be the Bill of Rights. This promised freedoms of speech, religion, trial by jury, etc. It has been added too and edited throughout the years. -
Whiskey Rebellion
The Whiskey Rebellion of 1794 was the reaction of the common people to the tax on whiskey. Farmers refused to pay the tax until the American Army enforced it. This shows and upholds the power of the new federal government. Many common people were taxed at different rates. The Whiskey Rebellion ultimately showed the power the new federal government had under Washington's presidency. -
Pickney's treaty
Pickney's treaty of 1795 was a treaty with Spain. Spain gave the Americans the right to freely travel on the Mississippi River and use the port of New Orleans. It solved territorial issues but ultimately failed not even 20 years later. This failure showed the falling power of Spain and its overall influence of the north territories. -
Alien and Sedition Acts
The Alien and Sedition Acts put in effect in 1796 under Adam's presidency was the government's reaction to the disrespect from colonists to the president and government. The acts ultimately made it illegal for people to criticize him. The passing of these acts ultimately helped with Jefferson's victory shortly. -
Louisiana Purchase
The Louisiana Purchase was a very important part of history for the U.S.A. Under Jefferson's presidency, he made a deal with Napolean and purchased the Louisiana territory for $15 million. This purchase doubles the size of the country and secures New Orleans and the Mississippi River. It helped to grow the economy and strengthen the alliance with allies such as France. -
Marbury vs. Madison
The Marbury vs. Madison was a court case between William Marbury and Secretary of State, James Madison. Madison, a member of Jeffersons' cabinet finds a letter granting Marbury a federal judgeship. President Jefferson ordered Madison to not deliver it, but Marbury found out and sued to gain "his" position. The Supreme Court sides with Madison and sets up the right of Judicial Review. This case is where Judicial Review was created and is still used to this day. -
Embargo Act of 1807
The Embargo Act of 1807 was the government's response to British and France. This act stopped all foreign trade. The act hurt trade and spurred domestic manufacturing. Not only did textile factories spring up due to the growth of cotton in the South, but they also helped to employ young/unmarried women. -
The Battle of Thames
The Battle of Thames occurred on October 5th, 1813. British and Indian forces were defeated by American forces in Canada. This was one of the battles during 1812. In this battle, Tecumseh was killed. His death ended Indian resistance in the Ohio River Valley. The Battle of Thames was ultimately a very big win for the Americans. -
The British Burn the Capitol
In August of 1814, the British Army invaded the United States and marched to Washington D.C., where they burned the capitol. After the city puts up a brief fight the city surrenders to the British. Nearly all Government buildings are razed. During this, Dolley Madison became a national hero. -
Corrupt Bargain
The Corrupt Bargain was the election of 1824 between Jackson, Adams, Crawford, and Clay. In this election, no candidate received a majority of the electoral votes. In Amendment 12 the vote must go to the House of Representatives. As Clay is speaker of the house, he drops of out the election. Soon after Adams and Clay meet privately with no record of anything, following this, Adams is publicly supported by clay and Adams appoints Clay as secretary of state. Many of Jackson's claim it was corrupt -
Tariff of Abominations
The Tariff of Abominations affected both the North and the South and was put in place to raise the interests of Northern manufacturing. In the North, foreign goods were more expensive, people bought more U.S. goods, and northern industrial states profited from increased business. In the South, foreign goods were made more expensive, European countries retaliated, and the economy in the South went down. Boston, Maine, and New York opposed this tariff. -
Indian Removal Act
The Indian Removal Act of 1830, was enacted under Jackson as president. The act allowed the forced relocation of multiple Native American tribes. The act of 1830, allowed for new fertile land to be open for white settlers. This act/policy was devastating to Native Americans, their culture, and their way of life. To the Native Americans and others, this policy was also known as The Trail of Tears. -
Seneca Falls Convention
The Seneca Falls Convention of 1848 was the declaration of sentiments that stated all things wrong with the country and all of its unjustness. The Seneca Falls Convention was the first women's rights convention in the United States. It was the birthplace of American feminism and led women to support abolitionism too. -
Compromise of 1850
In 1850, Henry Clay proposed the Compromise of 1850. This compromise includes California entering the union as a free state, the slave trade being abolished in Washington D.C., strict fugitive slave laws being enacted nationwide, and territories applying for statehood being governed by the concept of popular sovereignty. Henry Clay's goal was to preserve the Union by pleasing both the North and the South on the slavery issue. -
Dred Scott Case
The Dred Scott case of 1857 was very important to the start of the Civil War and to the increased separation between the North and the South. In the case, the Supreme Court ruled against Scott and claimed "there are no free states," slavery became legal everywhere... including the North. The Dred Scott Case raised tension between the North and the South and played a major factor in the start of the Civil War. -
Attack of Fort Sumter
The start of the Civil War was on April 12, 1861, and began with the Attack on Fort Sumter. Southern/Confederate soldiers attacked the U.S. military garrison at Fort Sumter, South Carolina. This "battle" only lasted two days as the fort surrendered to the Confederate forces. This attack was the official start of the Civil War, the most destructive war as it tore the states into two. -
Homestead Act
The Homestead Act was enacted in 1862 under Lincoln's presidency. The purpose of this act was to encourage settlement and development of western lands and to grow the economy but also to act as a pressure valve for overcrowded eastern cities. The act did not have that good of an outcome as many homesteaders failed to make it the required five years. The Homestead Act did however speed up the sttlement of the West. -
Pacific Railway Act
The Pacific Railway Act of 1862 was enacted under Lincoln's presidency. The purpose of this act was to connect the East and the West Coast with railroads thus allowing coast-to-coast trade. Under this act, two construction crews were working from the outside in. The Union Pacific Railway Company and the Central Pacific Railway Company. The Railroad was completed in 1869, 3 years ahead of schedule. This act helped the U.S.A. grow and expand west. -
Battle of Antietam
The 1862 Battle of Antietam was the single bloodiest day of the Civil War, and maybe even history. This Battle was one of the influential battles of the Civil War. The North lost more casualties but pushed the South off land and "claimed victory. " This victory was the victory Lincoln needed to announce the emancipation proclamation and that is exactly what he did. -
Emancipation Proclamation is ratified
The Emancipation Proclamation followed the victory at Antietam. The Proclamation abolished slavery in Southern states. Lincoln wanted to preserve the union. Lincoln claimed, "Keep slaves IF you come back, but IF NOT we will win and free your slaves." This was important as it said that slavery would officially end. -
Battle of Vicksburg
The Battle of Vicksburg was the last official, major battle of the Civil War. This battle increased the pressure on the Anaconda plan for the North. 30,000 troops from the Confederate army had to surrender and Grant captured the Mississippi River. This battle ultimately helped and allowed for the Union victory of the Civil War. -
Battle of Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg was the largest battle of the Civil War with the most troops. It was the deadliest battle of the Civil War and lasted 3 days. In this battle, the South tried to take over and lost many troops in the process. This was a turning point for the war and brought it to a swift end only two years later. -
Civil Rights Act of 1866
The Civil Rights Act of 1866 gave citizenship to African Americans and offered some protection against black codes. To ensure these laws stayed in place the Civil Rights Acts were turned into the 14th and 15th Amendments. These were the first civil rights acts and laid down the foundation for all civil rights legislation. -
Dawes Act
The Dawes Act of 1887 allowed Native Americans to claim individual homesteads of 160 acres to own and farm, championed as an olive branch to the Native American Tribes. The act had great opportunity however, by giving people individual natives a stake in the success if their lands harvest, the government weakened the tribal community. -
Plessy V. Ferguson
In 1896, the United States Supreme Court ruled, in a 7-1 vote, that "separate but equal "accommodations on railroad cars conformed to the 14th Amendment. The decision was used to justify segregating all public facilities, including schools. Most school districts, ignoring Plessy's "equal" requirement, neglected their black schools. These only lasted until 1954. -
Annexation of Hawaii
The annexation of Hawaii was a contentious and complex process that ultimately resulted in the United States gaining the islands as a territory in 1898. The annexation faced resistance both in Hawaii and in the U.S. Congress. It wasn't formally annexed by the United States until the Spanish-American war, through a joining resolution in Congress. -
Williams v. Mississippi
Williams V. Mississippi was a major U.S. Supreme Court case decided in 1898 that dealt with voting rights and racial discrimination in the state of Mississippi. The Supreme Court held Mississippi's voting requirements, ruling that they were constitutional. This decision led to the widespread weakening of African Americans in the South through literacy tests and poll taxes... contributing to the creation of Jim Crow laws. -
The Wright Brothers First Flight
Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved the first powered and controlled flight of heavier-than-aircraft in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. The event of their first flight marked the start of aviation and revolutionized transportation. The Wright brothers paved the way for the development of the modern plane/aircraft and changed the course of history, especially in warfare. -
Pure Food and Drug Act
The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 was a landmark piece of legislation in the United States aimed to improve food and drug safety standards. It was one of the very first laws in the country to regulate food and medication. This act was a response to the public outcry over unsanitary conditions in the food industry. The Pure Food and Drug Act laid the foundation for the following consumer protection laws and the establishment of the FDA. -
NAACP is founded
The NAACP was founded in response to the ongoing racial injustices and violence against African Americans in the U.S. The founders, mainly W.E.B DuBois, wanted to fight against racial discrimination and promote civil rights for African Americans through legal means. Their ultimate mission was to advocate for anti-lynching, fight for equal access to education and voting rights, challenge segregation, and more. -
The Great War (WWI) begins
The Great War, began on July 28, 1914, following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. The war pitted the Allied Powers against the Central Powers. In this war trench warfare was introduced. There were many technological advancements and a staggering number of casualties. The war lasted for 4 years until the armistice was signed on November 11, 1918. -
United States enters WWI
The United States entered World War 1 on April 4, 1917. They joined following events such as unrestriced submarine warfare and the interception of the Zimmermann Telegram. The United States were outraged and pushed the nation closer to entering the war, as they did on April 4. President Woodrow Wilson asked Congress to declare war on Germany citing the need to make the world "safe for democracy." -
Zimmerman Telegram
The Zimmerman Telegram was a very significant incident during WW1. It was a secret communication/letter sent by German Foreign Minister, Arthur Zimmermann to the German ambassador in Mexico, proposing a military alliance between Germany and Mexico against the United States. However, British intelligence intercepted and decoded the message, sharing it with the U.S. -
18th Amendment
The 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1919, prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The amendment effectively helped the era of Prohibition in the United States, which lasted 13 years. This Amendment was ultimately repealed by the 21st Amendment in 1933, ending prohibition and restoring the legal sale and consumption of alcohol in the United States. -
Treaty of Versailles
The Treaty of Versailles was one of the peace treaties that ended WW1, signed in 1919 between the Allies and Germany. It added many significant penalties and territorial losses to Germany. The treaty established the League of Nations. Although the treaty helped the harsh terms ultimately helped to push WW2. -
Prohibition Begins
Prohibition in the United States began with the passage of the 18th Amendment to the Constitution. This Constitutional Amendment prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol. Prohibition was driven by the temperance movement, which was supposed to address social issues such as family problems, and danger relating to alcohol. However, Prohibition led to consequences such as the rise in crime, bootlegging, etc. -
Immigration Act of 1924
The Immigration Act of 1924 restrictedimmigration from Northern and Western European countries while severely limiting immigration from Southern and Eastern European countries, as well as Asia. This marked a significant movement towards more restrictive measures for immigrants. -
Scopes Monkey Trial
The State of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes, otherwise known as the Scopes Monkey Trial, was a court case in Tennessee centered around the teaching of evolution in public schools (against state law at the time). In the case, Jonathan Scopes, a high school teacher, was convicted of teaching any theory that denied the biblical account of creation. In the end, Scopes was found guilty and fined. This highlighted the ongoing debate over religion and science in school. -
Stock Market Crash begins
The stock market crash of 1929, also called the Wall Street Crash, was a devastating event that marked the beginning of the Great Depression. It occurred on October 29th, 1929, when the stock prices on the New York Stock Exchange collapsed. This led to a widespread panic and a massive sell-off of stocks. This crash wiped out billions of dollars in wealth. It resulted in a decade-long economic downturn with high unemployment rate and severe debt. -
Bonus Army
The Bonus Army was a group of about 43,000 marchers, 17,000 of whom were WW1 veterans. The families and groups gathered in D.C. in the summer of 1932, demanding the immediate payment of bonuses promised to them for their wartime service. The event turned violent, resulting in casualties and extensive damage to veterans' camps. -
One Hundred Days Begins
The "hundred days" refers to the first 100 days of Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency, which began on March 4, 1933. During this period FDR and his administration implemented an unprecedented number of programs and reforms aimed at addressing the economic crisis of the Great Depression. These initiatives were parr of the New Deal and included measures to provide relief for the unemployed. The hundred days laid the groundwork for many of the key policies of FDR's presidency. -
FDR takes office
Franklin D. Roosevelt took office as the 32nd president of the United States on March 4, 1933. He entered office during the height of The Great Depression inheriting a country facing economic collapse and widespread unemployment. Franklin's presidency marked the beginning of the New Deal era, during which he implemented relief and reform projects. FDRs leadership and the implementation of the New Deal significantly reshaped the role of the federal government and had a lasting impact on society -
Social Security Act
It created a system of social insurance to provide financial assistance to retirees, the unemployed, the disabled, and families with dependent children. The Social Security Act was the establishment of the Social Security program, which provided retirement benefits to workers aged 65 and older. The Act also created the unemployment insurance system, which provided temporary income to workers who lost their jobs, as well as assistance to dependent children and people with disabilities. -
HUAC was founded
The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) was founded in 1938, initially as the House Committee on Un-American Activities. It was established to investigate alleged disloyalty and subversive activities by individuals and organizations suspected of having communist or fascist ties. HUAC became particularly active during the early Cold War period, conducting high-profile investigations into alleged communist infiltration of government, entertainment, and other sectors of American society. -
Fair Labor Standards Act
It established important labor standards and protections for workers in the United States. The key provisions of the FLSA include the establishment of a federal minimum wage, the regulation of child labor, and the implementation of overtime pay requirements for certain employees who work more than 40 hours per week. It aimed to improve working conditions, protect workers' rights, and promote fair labor practices across industries. -
Germany Invaded Czechoslovakia
In 1938, Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia, seizing control of the Sudetenland region. This aggressive move came after the Munich Agreement, in which British and French leaders appeased Hitler by allowing him to annex territories inhabited by ethnic Germans in Czechoslovakia. The invasion of Czechoslovakia further demonstrated Hitler's expansionist ambitions and set the stage for further aggression in Europe, leading to the outbreak of World War II the following year. -
Attack on Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 1941, the Japanese Imperial Navy launched a surprise military strike on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The attack resulted in significant damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, including the sinking or damaging of numerous battleships and aircraft. The assault led to the United States' entry into World War II, as President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared war on Japan the following day, December 8, 1941. -
D- Day
D-Day, June 6, 1944, marks the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II. It was the largest amphibious assault in history, with Allied forces landing on the beaches of Normandy, France, to liberate Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The operation involved extensive planning and coordination, leading to a decisive victory that ultimately helped turn the tide of the war in favor of the Allies. -
GI Bill
The GI Bill, officially known as the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, was a landmark piece of legislation passed by the United States Congress to provide benefits to returning World War II veterans. It offered educational, housing, and employment assistance to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life after their military service. The GI Bill played a significant role in expanding access to higher education, promoting homeownership, and stimulating economic growth in the post-war era. -
Yalta Conference
The Yalta Conference took place in February 1945, during World War II, and involved the leaders of the Allied powers, and Joseph Stalin of the Soviet Union. Held in the Soviet city of Yalta, the conference aimed to plan for the post-war world, including the reorganization of Europe and the establishment of the United Nations. Key agreements were made regarding the division of Germany, the occupation of Eastern Europe, and the treatment of defeated -
U.S. Drops Atomic Bomb on Japan
In August 1945, during World War II, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombings marked the first and only use of nuclear weapons in warfare. The decision to use atomic bombs was made by President Harry S. Truman and aimed to bring a swift end to the war with Japan. The bombings led to Japan's surrender, effectively ending World War II, but also resulted in significant loss of life and devastation in the targeted cities. -
United Nations is found
The United Nations (UN) was founded in 1945 after World War II as an international organization committed to promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations. It replaced the League of Nations and has since become the largest and most influential global organization, with member states working together on various issues, including human rights, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development. The UN Charter, outlines its principles and functions, including the General Assembly, etc. -
NATO was founded
Founded in 1949 as a military alliance of Western European and North American countries. Its main purpose was to provide collective defense against the threat of Soviet aggression during the Cold War. It is based on the principle of mutual defense, with member states committed to defending each other in the event of an attack. NATO played a crucial role in maintaining stability and security in Europe during the Cold War and defense and security issues. -
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka was a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case in 1954 that declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional. The ruling effectively overturned the "separate but equal" doctrine established by the earlier Plessy v. Ferguson case in 1896. The decision was a significant victory for the civil rights movement and led to the desegregation of public schools across the United States. -
Montgomery Bus Boycotts Begin
This began in 1955 in Montgomery, Alabama, after Rosa Parks, a black woman, refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus. Her arrest sparked a coordinated protest led by civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The boycott lasted for over a year and ended with a Supreme Court ruling declaring segregation on public buses unconstitutional. The boycott marked a significant victory for the civil rights movement and propelled Dr. King to national prominence. -
Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat
In December 1955, Rosa Parks, a black woman, refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her act of defiance sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal event in the civil rights movement. Parks' refusal to comply with segregation laws led to her arrest, but her courageous stand against racial injustice galvanized the African American community and inspired nationwide efforts to end segregation. -
National Interstate and Defense Highways Act
The Act, passed in 1956, authorized the construction of a vast network of interstate highways across the United States. The act aimed to improve transportation infrastructure for both civilian and military purposes, enhance national defense capabilities, and stimulate economic growth. It led to the creation of the Interstate Highway System, which has since become a crucial component of the nation's transportation infrastructure, facilitating commerce, travel, and mobility. -
Beatnik Movement Starts
This emerged in the 1950s as a countercultural movement characterized by its rejection of mainstream societal norms and its embrace of artistic expression, nonconformity, and spontaneity. They influenced by literature, jazz, and Eastern philosophy, sought to challenge the status quo through their writings, poetry, and lifestyle choices. They played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the time and laid the groundwork for the subsequent countercultural movements of the 1960s. -
Sputnik is Launched
Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite, was launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957. Its launch marked the beginning of the space age and initiated the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Sputnik's successful orbiting of the Earth shocked the world and led to increased investment in science, technology, and education, as well as heightened competition between the two superpowers in space exploration. -
Bay of Pigs Invasion
A failed military operation launched by the United States in April 1961 to overthrow the Cuban government. The invasion involved a group of Cuban exiles landing at the Bay of Pigs with the goal of sparking a popular uprising against Castro's regime. However, the operation was poorly planned and executed, resulting in a swift defeat for the invading forces. The Bay of Pigs invasion was a significant embarrassment for the United States and further escalated tensions during the Cold War -
Cuban Missile Crisis Begins
The Cuban Missile Crisis began in October 1962 when the United States discovered that the Soviet Union had deployed nuclear missiles in Cuba. For thirteen tense days, the world stood on the edge of nuclear catastrophe as both sides engaged in intense diplomatic negotiations. Eventually, a compromise was reached, with the Soviets agreeing to remove their missiles from Cuba in exchange for a pledge from the U.S. not to invade the island nation and a secret -
March On Washington
This took place on August 28, 1963, in Washington, D.C. It was a massive civil rights demonstration that brought together over 250,000 people from all walks of life to advocate for racial equality and economic justice. Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. A pivotal role in advancing the civil rights movement and the passage of landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. -
Civil Rights Act of 1964
A landmark piece of legislation passed by the United States Congress that aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It outlawed racial segregation in public accommodations, employment, and federally funded programs, and it also prohibited discrimination in voting. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 represented a significant victory for the civil rights movement and marked a major step forward in the fight for equality and justice in America. -
Gulf of Tonkin
Occurring in August 1964, when the USS Maddox, a U.S. Navy destroyer, reported being attacked by North Vietnamese torpedo boats in the Gulf of Tonkin off the coast of Vietnam. This incident led to the passage of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution by the U.S. Congress, which authorized President Johnson to use military force in Southeast Asia without a formal declaration of war. The resolution paved the way for increased U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. -
Operation Rolling Thunder
Operation Rolling Thunder was a sustained aerial bombing campaign conducted by the United States against North Vietnam from 1965 to 1968 during the Vietnam War. It aimed to pressure North Vietnam to cease its support for the Viet Cong insurgency in South Vietnam. Despite extensive bombing, the operation failed to achieve its objectives and contributed to anti-American sentiment both domestically and internationally. -
Medicare and Medicaid Act
These signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, established two major healthcare programs in the United States. Medicare provides health insurance coverage for Americans aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. Medicaid, on the other hand, offers healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families.The Medicare and Medicaid Act represents a landmark achievement in the nation's efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability. -
Voting Rights Act of 1965
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to address racial discrimination in voting practices, particularly in the southern states. It prohibited discriminatory practices like literacy tests and poll taxes, and authorized federal oversight of elections in states with a history of voter suppression. This landmark legislation significantly expanded access to the ballot box for minority voters, advancing civil rights and democracy in the United States. -
Kerner Commision
The Kerner Commission, officially the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, was formed in 1967 to investigate the causes of urban riots in the U.S. It concluded that racism and inequality were the root causes and warned of a divided society. Its report called for significant reforms to address systemic discrimination. -
Soviet-American Detente
Soviet-American détente was a period of improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, primarily in the 1970s. It was characterized by a reduction in tensions and increased diplomatic dialogue, leading to agreements such as arms control treaties and cultural exchanges. Détente aimed to ease Cold War tensions and promote cooperation between the superpowers, though it faced challenges and ultimately ended with renewed hostility in the late 1970s and 1980s. -
EPA is Founded
The EPA was founded in 1970 by President Richard Nixon to address growing concerns about pollution and environmental degradation in the United States. It is responsible for enforcing environmental laws, setting standards for air and water quality, conducting research, and providing grants to states and communities for environmental projects. The EPA plays a crucial role in protecting human health and the environment by regulating pollution and promoting sustainable practices. -
Watergate
Watergate was a political scandal in the 1970s. It involved the illegal activities of President Richard Nixon's administration, including the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in 1972. Subsequent investigations revealed a cover-up orchestrated by Nixon's administration, which ultimately led to his resignation in 1974. The Watergate scandal had far-reaching consequences, including increased scrutiny of executive power and government accountability -
Roe v. Wade
A landmark Supreme Court case in 1973 that legalized abortion in the United States. The case centered around a Texas woman, "Jane Roe," who challenged the state's abortion law, which banned most abortions except to save the life of the mother. The Supreme Court ruled that the constitutional right to privacy extended to a woman's decision to have an abortion, effectively striking down laws that restricted access to abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy. Roe v. Wade remains one of the -
Energy Crisis Begins
The energy crisis of the 1970s began with a series of events including the Arab oil embargo of 1973 and the Iranian Revolution of 1979. These disruptions in the global oil supply led to skyrocketing oil prices and fuel shortages in many countries, including the United States. The crisis highlighted the world's dependence on fossil fuels and prompted efforts to develop alternative energy sources and improve energy efficiency. -
Iran Hostage Crisis
The Iran hostage crisis began in November 1979 when Iranian militants seized the United States Embassy in Tehran and held 52 American diplomats and citizens hostage for 444 days. The crisis was triggered by the Iranian Revolution, which overthrew the U.S.-backed Shah of Iran and installed the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini.The crisis had lasting repercussions, shaping U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East for decades. -
Reaganomics
Reaganomics, also known as supply-side economics or trickle-down economics, refers to the economic policies implemented by President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. It was characterized by a combination of tax cuts, deregulation, and tight monetary policy with the goal of stimulating economic growth, reducing government intervention in the economy, and curbing inflation. Reaganomics emphasized the belief that reducing taxes and regulations would spur investment, job creation, and overall prosperity.