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Wright Brothers’ First Flight
On December 17, Orville and Wilbur Wright achieve the first powered, controlled flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Their aircraft, the Wright Flyer, flew for 12 seconds, covering 120 feet. This landmark event marked the beginning of the era of aviation, transforming transportation and military strategy in the years to come. -
World War I
The U.S. remains neutral until 1917 when it joins the Allies against the Central Powers. American troops help turn the tide of the war, leading to an armistice in November 1918. This conflict reshapes global politics and leads to the Treaty of Versailles, which establishes the League of Nations. -
Stock Market Crash
On October 29, known as Black Tuesday, the stock market crashes, triggering the Great Depression. Millions lose their savings, businesses fail, and unemployment soars. The crash fundamentally alters the American economy and leads to widespread poverty and hardship. -
New Deal Programs
In response to the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt launches the New Deal, a series of programs aimed at economic recovery. Initiatives like Social Security, job creation projects, and banking reforms help stabilize the economy and provide relief to millions of Americans. -
Pearl Harbor Attack
On December 7, Japan launches a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing over 2,400 Americans and damaging numerous ships. This attack prompts the U.S. to declare war on Japan, officially entering World War II and shifting the course of the conflict. -
End of World War II
After years of brutal conflict, the U.S. drops atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, leading to Japan's unconditional surrender on September 2. This marks the end of World War II and establishes the U.S. as a dominant global power, while also raising ethical questions about nuclear warfare. -
Civil Rights Act
The Civil Rights Act is signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This landmark legislation aims to end segregation and promotes equality, significantly advancing the Civil Rights Movement -
Moon Landing
On July 20, Apollo 11 successfully lands the first humans on the Moon, with Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin taking historic steps on the lunar surface. This achievement symbolizes American ingenuity and marks a significant victory in the Space Race against the Soviet Union. -
Watergate Scandal
The Watergate scandal leads to President Richard Nixon’s resignation on August 8. The scandal involves a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and a subsequent cover-up. Nixon’s departure marks the first time a U.S. president resigns in office, raising questions about government integrity. -
End of the Cold War
The collapse of the Soviet Union in December 1991 signifies the end of the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the U.S. and the USSR. This shift leads to a reorganization of international relations and a new focus on global cooperation. -
Y2K Preparation
As the year 2000 approaches, widespread concern arises about potential computer failures due to the Y2K bug, which could affect systems worldwide. Businesses and governments invest billions in technology upgrades to prevent disruption, highlighting the growing dependence on technology.