-
- George W. Bush, a Republican, narrowly wins the presidency after a controversial Supreme Court decision regarding Florida votes.
- Significance: Marked the beginning of the Bush administration and set the stage for domestic and foreign policy in the 2000s.
-
- Four planes were hijacked; two hit the Twin Towers, one hit the Pentagon, and one crashed in Pennsylvania.
- Significance: Led to increased national security, the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, and the War on Terror.
-
- The Taliban were harboring al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, responsible for the 9/11 attacks.
- Significance: Start of the longest U.S. military conflict in history.
-
- The U.S. invaded Iraq citing weapons of mass destruction and alleged links to terrorism.
- Significance: Led to long-term conflict and political instability in Iraq.
-
This marks the beginning of my life and sets the starting point for my personal timeline.
-
- Caused by risky lending practices, housing market collapse, and failing financial institutions.
- Significance: Millions lost jobs and homes; government intervened with stimulus programs.
-
- Obama became the first African American president; campaigned on “Hope and Change.”
- Significance: Marked a historic moment in U.S. history and a focus on healthcare reform and economic recovery.
-
- Obama signs healthcare reform into law to increase access to healthcare for Americans.
- Significance: Expanded coverage and protections, though politically controversial.
-
- Movement started after the shooting of Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman’s acquittal.
- Significance: Brought national attention to racial injustice and police brutality.
-
- Smartphones and social media reshape communication, social movements, and daily life.
- Significance: Allowed rapid information sharing and global connection.
-
- Trump, a Republican, ran on “Make America Great Again” focusing on immigration, trade, and nationalism.
- Significance: Marked a highly polarized political era.
-
- Social media campaigns expose widespread sexual harassment and abuse.
- Significance: Increased accountability for public figures and institutions.
-
- First confirmed U.S. case in January; spread rapidly worldwide.
- Significance: Public health crisis, economic shutdowns, remote work and schooling.
-
- Supporters of Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol trying to overturn the election results.
- Significance: Raised questions about domestic extremism and democratic norms.
-
I completed my high school education, celebrating years of learning and personal growth with my friends and family.
-
I gained independence by moving into my first apartment, learning to manage responsibilities on my own.