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The first permanent English settlement in North America is established in Virginia. -
The Mayflower brings the Pilgrims to Plymouth, Massachusetts, where they establish a colony.
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On July 4, the thirteen colonies declare independence from British rule. -
The United States Constitution is ratified, replacing the Articles of Confederation and establishing the framework of the federal government.
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The U.S. purchases the Louisiana Territory from France, doubling the size of the nation.
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The United States is divided over slavery, leading to the Civil War between the Union and Confederate states.
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President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all slaves in Confederate states to be free. -
The U.S. defeats Spain, acquiring territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
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The United States enters World War I, tipping the balance in favor of the Allies.
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The Great Depression begins with the stock market crash in October, leading to a decade of economic hardship. -
The U.S. enters World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor, playing a crucial role in the defeat of Axis powers.
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The Supreme Court decision declares racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.
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Legislation is passed to outlaw racial segregation and discrimination. -
Apollo 11 mission lands the first humans on the Moon. -
President Richard Nixon resigns in the wake of the Watergate scandal.
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Marking the end of the Cold War, the U.S. emerges as the world's sole superpower.
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Terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon lead to the U.S. launching the War on Terror. -
A global financial crisis begins, leading to the Great Recession.
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Barack Obama is elected as the first African American president of the United States. -
The U.S. faces the COVID-19 pandemic, economic challenges, and widespread protests against racial injustice and police brutality.