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Declaration of Independence
The Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the thirteen American colonies as independent from British rule. -
Constitutional Convention
Delegates convene in Philadelphia to draft the United States Constitution, shaping the framework of the federal government. -
Civil war
The American Civil War erupts between the Northern and Southern states over issues including slavery and states' rights. -
Emancipation Proclamation
President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all slaves in Confederate states to be free. -
19th Amendment
Women gain the right to vote with the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. -
Stock market crash
The Wall Street Crash marks the beginning of the Great Depression, leading to widespread economic hardship. -
Pearl harbor
Japan attacks the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, prompting the United States to enter World War II. -
March on Washington
Civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., lead the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where King delivers his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. -
Moon Landing
NASA's Apollo 11 mission successfully lands astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon, a significant achievement in space exploration. -
Election of Barack Obama
Barack Obama becomes the first African American president of the United States after winning the 2008 presidential election.