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The U.S. government builds ARPANET, the first network to connect computers in different places. It’s the start of what will become the internet. -
The first email is sent on ARPANET, marking the beginning of electronic messaging. -
ARPANET connects the U.S. with Europe, making it the first global network. -
A standard language for the internet (TCP/IP) is created, allowing different computers to communicate easily. -
Tim Berners-Lee invents the World Wide Web, a system for sharing information online, making it easier to access websites. -
The World Wide Web becomes public, and people start creating websites that anyone can visit. -
Amazon and eBay launch, showing how people can buy and sell things over the internet. -
Google is founded, quickly becoming the best tool for finding information online. -
Facebook is launched, allowing people to connect with friends and share updates, photos, and more. -
YouTube is created, making it easy for anyone to upload, watch, and share videos. -
The first iPhone is released, allowing people to access the internet on a mobile device. -
Instagram launches, letting people share photos and videos, quickly becoming very popular. -
Facebook hits 1 billion users, showing just how popular and global social media has become. -
Apps like WhatsApp, acquired by Facebook, and Snapchat grow in popularity, allowing people to message, share photos, and communicate instantly from anywhere. -
Netflix, which started as a DVD rental service, becomes the leading streaming platform, changing how people watch TV and movies. -
Amazon’s Alexa, Google Home, and other voice assistants become popular, allowing people to control smart devices with voice commands. -
TikTok, a short-form video app, gains worldwide popularity, with users creating and sharing quick, creative videos. -
5G, a much faster mobile network, starts rolling out, supporting things like smart cities and connected devices. -
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people around the world rely on the internet more than ever for work, school, and staying in touch. -
AI tools like ChatGPT become popular, allowing people to use AI for creative and everyday tasks. -
The internet continues to change, with AI and virtual reality making online experiences more personal and interactive.