-
Interstate Commerce Act
One of the first acts to help regulate trade between the states proved effective with Theodore Roosevelt wanting to limit certain corporate power in order to make sure farmers and people who use the railroads were offered fair rates. Ultimately, it was a great act that helped make sure that there wasn't corruption in big industries such as the railroads and made it more effiicient for the lower class. -
"How The Other Half Lives" is Published
Muckraker Jacob Riis published this famous book during a time in which there was a massive housing and safety crisis for the lower class in urban areas to show the conditions in which they endured and hope to make legislation that would help them. Showing gruesome images and descriptions of what he saw shocked the nation and made them act for better living conditions, leading to a new movement during that time. -
Invention of Car
While there were other models before Henry Ford's time, his "Quadricycle" was able to completely change automobiles thanks to its fast production times which allowed for cheaper prices and later better wages for Ford's employees. Ultimately, the invention of the Automobile helped revolutionze transportation not only in the US but also around the world in which it made traveling way faster than ever before. -
Sinking of USS Maine
With tensions between Spain and the US rising, the sinking of the Maine was believed to be caused by Spain, soon igniting anger among Americans and soon declaring war upon Spain. Even though until way later it was found to be caused by a underwater mine, it still stirred up enough speculation that it started the Spanish American War, which was quickly won soon after. -
Battle of San Juan Hill
Seen as the decsive battle during the Spanish-American War, regimes including Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders took up the hill against the Spanish, claiming one of the most important victories in the Spanish American War. It also led to Roosevelt being viewed as a war hero afterwards, helping him later to winning the presidency in 1901 thanks to great military strategies. -
Treaty of Paris
Ending the Spanish American War, it came out as an easy victory for the US and also granted new territories. The US got possesion of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines following the treaty, showing how the US was gaining more territory outside of the North American continent. Even though the US didn't keep Cuba and the Philippines, it showed the world it was starting to become a global superpower. -
Invention of the Airplane
The Wright Brothers in 1903 were able to successfully fly an airplane, leading to another huge change in transportation in years to come. Soon, there would be even more advanced airplanes that would be able to transport people and cargo at incredibily high speeds and ultimately changed the importance of human flight for centuries to come. -
Creation of Panama Canal
With the help of the US, Panamanian rebels were able to declare independence from Colombia. As a result, all the US asked in return was for the construction of a canal that would allow Cargo ships to travel from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans faster than traveling all around South America. It allowed for faster trade to countries and increased revenue. -
Antiquities Act
Hoping to preserve more National Parks and important landmarks, President Theordore Roosevelt decided to pass this act in order to protect specific sites on federal land. It ultimately led to more sites around being protected under this act and also is enforced to make sure no one damages the land in order to preserve it. Overall, it was a great act that helped boost Roosevelt's presidency. -
Great Migration
Following many white Americans going off to war during World War 1, there were many jobs that had to be tended to such as factory jobs. Thus, many Africans Americans decided to take this opprtunity to move from the South which was very harsh for them and move to the North which provided more job opprtnities and less racial oppression. Overall, more than 6 million African Americans moved to the North and helped take over jobs that were neccessary to win the war. -
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
One of the deadliest industrial disasters in US history, a fire broke out on a clothes-making factory which led to over 140 people dying. This soon sparked protests and urges for work and safety reform due to the lack of safe working conditions at that time. As a result, there were over 30 new lwas passed which aimed at helping workers including a minimum wage and better working conditions at that time. -
Zimmerman Telegram/Note
A telegram from Arthur Zimmerman to Germany's ambassador to Mexico was intercepted by the US, showing that there was plans to soon invade the Southern US as a distraction from the ongoing war in Europe. As a result, the US prepeared troops along the southern border and also declared war on Germany, causing the US to join Allies in World War 1. -
Creation of 18th Amendment
This admendment prohibited the manufacturing and transportation of alcohol in the United States, starting the prohibition period. It was caused by the movement to reduce alcohol consumption and prevent alcoholism. As a result, there was a ton of bootlegging and illegal creation of alcoholic drinks.It was later repealed by the 21st Amendment. -
Treaty of Versailles
Officially ending World War 1, the Treaty of Versailles was to be celebrated shortly due to having some flaws. It put major blame on Germany, it wasn't enforced enough, and it also put major punishments that would limit how much countries could recover following the Great War. As a result, it was one of the major influences to why World War 2 happened. -
Creation of 19th Amendment
Following many protests by the Women's Suffrage Movement, the 19th Amendment allowed women the right to vote. It created a major impact in which it created a more equal society based on gender in politics. Overall, it was a great accomplishment that granted the right for a path to equality that is still seen today . -
Immigration Act of 1924
Hoping to preserve the naturality of the country, this act was passed, restricting the amount of immigrants that could come from a certain country in a year. However, it was also biased because it used an outdated census to calculate the amount of immigrants allowed into the US. It also completely restrcited immigrants from countries in Asia and East Europe due to viewing them as criminals. -
Television is Invented
Engineers John Baird and Philo Farnsworth were able to successfully create the first television set, which influenced many generations from that point on. It helped show the backgrounds of other cultures, influenced pop culture, created a new form of entertainment, and ultimately led to a new form of promotion that anyone could see around the world. -
Stock Market Crash of 1929
Also known as Black Tuesday, it started the period known as the Great Depression, with over $14 billion on a single day. It soon caused many to go to poverty and there was no full recovery until the start of World War 2. It was believed to be caused by the implementation of the "Buy Now Pay Later" payment option and also overspending by many consumers. -
Dust Bowl
One of the main factors for the Great Depression, the Great Plains was affected by a major drought period for almost 10 years. It was also caused by very high temperatures, high erosion, and dust storms killing cattle and crops. As a result, there was a ton of food/crop shortages and prices were extremely high. It was able to end with normal rainfall and the economy starting to bounce back in the 1940's due to World War 2. -
Bonus Army March
Protesting the lack of money most of the country was making and also the promise of a war bonus after serving in World War 1, veterans went to Washington Dc hoping to get their war bonus early due to the economic depression that was happening at that time. After protesting for 2 months and being rejected the request by Congress, President Hoover decided to clash with protesters and then burn their makeshift camp, creating one of his lowest points in his presidency. -
Creation of 21st Amendment
Following backslash from the 18th Amendment which banned alcohol in the US and started the Prohibition Period, Franklin Roosevelt decided to repeal this amendment in order to help the economy. As such, many were actually reliefed that they could consume alcohol again and temperance unions from that point foward started to fade and get less support. Ultimately, it helped dissipate the crime wave that was happening due to no alcohol and create more stability. -
Neutrality Acts
Hoping to prevent engagement when World War 2 first started, the US passed a series of laws in order to stay neutral until the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Examples included the ban of distribution of weapons to European countries, merchant ships couldn't transport specific items, etc. It showed to the world that the US was on the path to rebuilding during the Great Depression and didn't want to engage in war. -
Social Security Act
President Frankin Roosevelt passed this act during the Great Depression in order to create a general wefare program for the elderly and disabled to make sure they could earn some income despite being retired which was provided by the government. Seen originally uneccessary at that time due to it coming out of workers' paychecks, it is still seen today as a helpful tool to eliminate poverty for those not working anymore. -
Bombing of Pearl Harbor
The event that would cause the US to join the Allies in World War 2, it became known as a great surprise attack by Japanese forces attacking naval ships in Hawaii. More than 2,000 soldiers died and around 19 ships were destroyed, resulting in immediate action by the US. -
Invasion of Normandy
Also known as D-Day, it was the re-invasion of the north France territory that was under Nazi occupation during that time. With over 160,000 Allied troops, it became the largest seaborne invasion in history, creating one of the biggest victories for the Allies following many losses. Ultimately, it became the turning point in the war, with the Allies winning more than before. -
G.I Bill of Rights
Following World War 2, the US government decided to implement a law in which it would reward its soldiers for serving in the war. It allowed them to get free education towards college/trade school, low interest rates for homes and businesses, and more. It resulted in many future generations being influenced to go to college and the rise of the middle class through the 20th century. -
Atomic Bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima
Officially ending World War 2 opposition, these 2 Japanese cities were hit by a nuclear bomb which was the first time ever in history to do it. Following the bombings, Japan officially surrendered and the US showed to the world that it was capable of using nuclear warfare if needed and that it had one of the greatest militaries the world has ever seen. -
Creation of the United Nations
Following World War 2, 51 nations decided to cooperate together to make sure that peace was established and that there are friendly trade relationships among countries. It suceeded the League of Nations which didn't work out due to not enough cooperation and the United States not joining the organization. Ultimately, it paved the way for longterm peace and country cooperation that is still seen today by this organization. -
Paris Peace Conference
Following World War 2, nations gathered in order to establish peace and restrictions on certain countries. Examples included the creation of the Treaty of Paris, which helped with restoration and also limits on military on countries like Hungary and Germany. Overall, it was the first step towards world peace at that time and the creation of the United Nations. -
Berlin Airlift
One of the first major events in the Cold War, the Soviet Union imposed a blockade around the West part of Berlin in order to make sure that the Allies couldn't provide supplies. As a result, the US, Great Britain, and France decided to airlift food and supplies to the isolated city for an entire year which angered the Soviets a ton due to not wanting any Western support at that time. -
Marshall Plan
Hoping to rebuild economic relations with Europe, President Truman passed the Economic Recovery Act in 1948 which would help rebuild Europe following World War 2. As a result, more than $15 billion was put into rebuilding European countries that wanted it. Ultimately, most of the countries following the Marshall Plan were able to rebuild and prosper with it showing to the world that the US was willing to show how powerful it was. -
Creation of NATO
Similar to the United Nations, this organization made sure to create peace and stability amid the start of the Cold War to protect countries aginst the Soviet Union. Overall, this military organization has expanded greatly and helped to keep peace in Europe and many North American countries during its time and even in modern day. Thanks to its cooperation, it has protected many countries from imminent threats from countries outside of NATO. -
US Joins the Korean War
Fighting against the spread of communism, President Truman decided to put troops in South Korea in order to make sure that it wouldn't fall into North Korea's government. After 3 years, the US and allies were able to successfully prevent the spread of cimmunism to South Korea. Eventually, peace was made and there is now a strict border separating the 2 countries. -
Brown v. Board of Education
One of the biggest Supreme Court cases ever, they ruled that schools can't be segregated anymore even if they are equal, which most of the time they weren't. As a result, it became one of the biggest accmolpishments in the Civil Rights movement and paved the way to intergrated schools. Despite having opposition from many, it still a great positive impact still seen today. -
US Joins the Vietnam War
Another plan used to prevent the spread the threat of communism along Southeast Asia, President Eisenhower decided to deploy troops along South Vietnam in order to train Vietnamese troops. After mounting escalations, the US then decided to fully engage in war and puts in startegies such as Operation Rolling Thunder. After major backslash from the public due to the draft, President Nixon makes sure to completely withdraw troops from Vietnam. -
Montgomery Bus Boycotts
Following the planned arrest of Rosa Parks, there was massive protest against the policy of segregated buses in Montgomery. For an entire year, supporters of the movement decided to not take the bus and instead walked from place to place, nearly bankrupting the bus company. As a result, both the protesters and the bus company advocated for the intergration of buses. It then resulted in the Supreme Court finding segregation on buses unconstitutional. -
National Interstate and Defense Highway Act
Hoping for faster ways to travel the country with automobiles, President Eisenhower decided to pass this act hoping for establish a national highway system. It also functioned as way to quickly evacuate cities in case of a nuclear missile going its way, which was influenced during the Cold War. As such, it cost a lot of money to be built but it became the biggest public works project in the nation's history. -
Cuban Missile Crisis
The closest event to go close on a full nuclear war, where the Soviet Union planted ICBM's on Cuba in order to completely reach every part of the US with those missiles. After 13 days, President Kennedy negotiated with the Soviet to pull out the ICBM's from Cuba in exchange of pulling out US missiles from Turkey. It resulted in more communication from the US and the Soviets with the Hot Line. -
March on Washington
Protesting the lack of civil rights, over 250,000 people showed up to this historic event that was a key part in the Civil Rights Movement. The impact of this event resulted in major reform legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act in 1965 that would help pave the way for equality in the US following years of discrimination for African Americans. -
Assassination of John F. Kennedy
While riding in a parade in Dallas Texas, President Kennedy was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald. As the country mourned for his death, there was also speculation on why Oswald did it. Nevertheless, his assassination led to the creation of the 25th Amendement, which made sure that the Vice President became the president when the pressident died, resigned, or was removed from office. So even though President Kennedy wasn't around for a long time, he still created a great impact. -
Civil Rights Act of 1964
Another significant landmark in the Civil Rights Movement, it made sure to prohibit discrimination in many places based on race, color, religion, gender, and origin. It was one of the biggest decisions made by Lyndon B. Johnson and it would influence many decisions made over the course of US history and it still influences today. -
Bloody Sunday
A Civil Rights Demonstration that ended in major violence, protesters that were marching from Selma to Montgomery that were advocating for more voting rights were stopped by state troopers and beaten. It resulted in many catastrophic injuries but also a greater outcry for voting rights that it later led to more protesters joing over time and even protection from the US miliary. -
Voting Rights Act of 1965
Even though the Civil Rights Act helped a lot, it still didn't protect voting rights for everyone. As a result, this new law was implemented, banning the denial of voting rights based on color, rrace, etc. It also banned poll taxes, literacy tests, and allowed the federal government to intervene if these practices still happened. -
Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
One of the most influential people of all time, Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated by James Earl Ray, which immediately after sparked nationwide mourning and protests. However, he left a lasting impact that can still be seen today with his work in the Civil Rights Movement. Ultimately, his tactic of not using violence to protests helped to show that it was possible to achieve something without having to use violence. -
Moon Landing
With the Space Race influencing part of the Cold War, the US decided to land a man on the moon. After many tries, the Apollo 11 crew landed on the moon. It was viewed by over 500 million people, signifying a great landmark in which a human landed on the moon and also paved the way for more journeys out to space later on. -
Watergate Scandal
Following the break-in at the Democratic National Headquarters, there was a ton of cover-ups by the Nixon administration to make sure the public didn't find out about. But after information leaked and Nixon denied any wrongdoing and knowledge of the break-in, the public urged Nixon to resign. It ultimately created a deep impact where less people trusted the government and hurt America's image. -
Nixon Resigns
Following the Watergate Scandal, there was increasing pressure from the public for wanting him to resign. So after a long speech, Nixon officially resigned from office, the only president that has ever done that in US history. Later, Vice President Ford took over, signifying a new start for the country that was damaged due to the scandal. -
Camp David Accords
Hoping to create peace in the Middle East to help expand trade, President Carter created a proposal of peace between Egypt and Israel to make them stop fighting. After 13 days, peace was finally negotiated and fighting stopped. Overall, it was a great boost for the Carter presidency but also led to backslash in the Middle East against Carter and also led to the Iranian Hostage Crisis later on which would hurt Carter's image. -
Iranian Hostage Crisis
With tensions between the US and Iran rising, students in Iran took over the US Embasy in Tehran and took hostage 52 diplomats and citizens for 444 days. While President Carter tried to negotiate deals to get the hostages out, nothing ever truly worked especially a rescue which led to 3 helicopters malfunctioning. It was a major backslash to the Carter administration but it was finally able to be resolved at the end of his presidency. -
Fall of Berlin Wall
With political reforms from both the Soviet Union and the West, the Berlin Wall that was built in order to prevent people to move to West Berlin and Europe was officially being brought down. It was significant due to it being the start of the downfall of communism, including the Soviet Union. Thanks to the help of the US, West Berlin and East Berlin were able to join back together and help Germany to become whole again.