Domestic policy event: The Whiskey Rebellion (July 16,1794) Following the passage of a federal tax on whiskey, many citizens were unhappy and responded with riots. This violence broke out July 16, when nearly 400 rioters harassed and attacked tax collectors, such as John Neville. Washington, in response, gathers a militia and sends the troops to Western Pennsylvania to settle the violence. 

Economic Event: The creation of the National Bank (December 12, 1791) The first Bank of the United States opened in 1791 in Philadelphia. Goals of the bank were to stabilize the economy and to create a federal tax system.

Political Event: Ratification of the Constitution (May 29, 1790) The Constitution of the United States was ratified May of 1790 and replaced the incredibly weak Articles of Confederation. 

Sources:

(https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/the-first-president/whiskey-rebellion-timeline ,

https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/first-bank-of-the-us#:~:text=The%20Bank%20of%20the%20United%20States%2C%20now%20commonly%20referred%20to,with%20a%20twenty%2Dyear%20charter. , https://millercenter.org/president/george-washington/key-events)

Source for all term dates: https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/app-categories/presidential/timeline

Foreign policy event: The XYZ Affair (October 1797-1798) After the French navy began attacking American ships, President John Adams sent American diplomats to negotiate a treaty between the U.S. and France. Three French diplomats known as “x”, “y”, and “z” demanded bribes in order to begin creating a treaty. After refusal of bribery, undeclared naval war persisted for two years between the two nations.

Domestic policy event: The Sedition Act (July 14, 1798) The Sedition Act was an executive order under John Adams. It was created with the intent to punish American citizens for criticizing the government during the naval conflict with France. Citizens were jailed upon violation of the Sedition Act, making it a violation of the 1st amendment.

Political Event: Adam’s midnight appointments (March 3, 1801) On his final day in office, President Adams appointed several federal judges through the Judiciary Act of 1801. These appointments were referred to as “midnight appointments” because Adams filled the judiciary branch with federalists during his last moments as president.

Conflict Event: Quasi war (1798-1801) The “Quasi war” was an undeclared naval conflict between the United States and France primarily fought in the Caribbean and along the American coast. This conflict led to the impressment of many American seamen as well as the seizing of multiple American merchant ships.

Sources:

https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/us-history/road-to-revolution/creating-a-nation/a/presidency-of-john-adams

Foreign policy event: Louisiana purchase (April 30, 1803) The Louisiana Purchase was a deal between the U.S. and France. It was a $15 million dollar purchase for 827,000 square miles of land west of the Mississippi River. The U.S. not only gained territories from France, but they also improved relations with the nation.

Domestic policy event: The Lewis and Clark Expedition (May 14, 1804- September 23, 1806) President Jefferson organized the Lewis and Clark expedition and put Meriwether Lewis in charge of the expedition, accompanied by William Clark. The two men were instructed by Jefferson to seek new trade routes, record western geography, and establish relations with Native tribes.

Economic event: The Embargo Act (December 22, 1807- March 1809) The Embargo act was the halt of American foreign trade, primarily meant to target Britain and France. It had negative effects on the American economy since it completely halted trade with immediate notice. A major goal of the Embargo act was to prevent the impressment of American seamen and it remained effective until early-mid 1809. 

Social movement: The Enlightenment movement (not exact date:1770s-1810s) The Enlightenment movement in America was a nationwide redirection of attention towards natural rights and science. This movement rejected Puritan values and was influenced by key English Philosophers such as John Locke. American figures such as Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson embraced these principles. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/thomas-jefferson/key-events

Foreign policy event: Non-Intercourse Act (March 4, 1809) Immediately upon taking over office, President Madison repealed the Embargo Act which had been in place since 1807 with the Non-Intercourse Act. The act dropped most foreign export restrictions besides prohibitions against Britain and France. It also gave Madison the power to drop trade restrictions if other nations dropped American trade restrictions.

Domestic policy event: 2nd National Bank (January 7, 1817) After the first bank expired in 1812, it was initially not renewed by Congress. Following the War of 1812, Madison had difficulty funding war expenses such as loans and credits, which the national bank was able to provide. Considering this, Madison supported the bank's recharter and signed the second National Bank into law in 1817.

War event: The War of 1812 (June 18, 1812- February 17, 1815) The War of 1812 was a conflict between Britain and the U.S. on North American territories. It was a result of British impressment of American seamen–which interfered with trade– as well as British support for Native American resistance to westward expansion. American military leader, Andrew Jackson, played a key role in this war, which was ended by the ratification of the Treaty of Ghent.

Political event: Fletcher v Peck (1810) Fletcher v. Peck was a significant case under the Madison administration and holds great significance since it was the first case to prove a state lawunconstitutional. The SCOTUS ruling by John Marshall stated that states cannot invalidate contracts or property rights, which unfortunately accelerated pro-slavery arguments.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/madison/foreign-affairs https://millercenter.org/president/madison/domestic-affairs https://supremecourthistory.org/supreme-court-civics-resources/fletcher-v-peck-1810/

Foreign policy event: Monroe Doctrine (December 2, 1823) The Monroe Doctrine, articulated in one of Monroe’s messages to Congress, stated that American territories were not open for European colonization. If any European nation decided to ignore the doctrine and attempt to conquer western territories, they would be deemed as a threat to the United States.

Domestic policy event: Adams-Onis treaty (February 22, 1819) After Andrew Jackson invaded and conquered some Spanish territories in Florida, the Adams-Onis treaty was proposed. The Adams-Onis treaty shifted Florida from Spanish control to U.S. control and also established a boundary between America and New Spain.

Economic event: Henry Clay’s American system (1824) Henry Clay’s American system was introduced in a speech delivered by Clay and was intended to stimulate economic growth and self-sufficiency. Some key aspects of the economic plan included protective tariffs, improved transportation, and widespread trade.

Social event: Era of good feelings (1817-1825) Following the War of 1812, Americans felt a strong sense of unity and cohesiveness. This long-lasting feeling was later classified as the “Era of Good Feelings” due to the economic and political peace during the period.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/james-monroe/key-events

https://www.britannica.com/event/Era-of-Good-Feelings

Foreign policy event: Panama Congress (1825) On December 26, Adams announced to Congress that he accepted Simon Bolivar’s invitation to the Panama Congress, and planned to send an American delegate there. Adams hoped that this would strengthen commercial ties and opportunities with South America, as well as strengthen the ideas of the Monroe Doctrine in the hemisphere. 

Domestic policy event: Erie canal (October 26, 1825) The Erie canal was a large transportation project connecting the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. Adams was supportive of infrastructure improvements and used federal funds to complete the construction of the Erie canal.

Economic event: Tariff of Abominations (May 19, 1828) The Tariff of Abominations was a high tariff intended to protect Northern industries and American farmers. It set a 38% tax on imported goods and a 45% tax on imported raw materials. Although this tariff was highly protective for businesses, it resulted in a higher cost of living in both the South and North. 

Religious Event: 2nd Great Awakening (1795-1835) The 2nd Great Awakening was far less intense than the 1st, as it focused on individual salvation and led to new denominations as well as many socialreform movements. This religious movement was a Protestant revival that led to increased church memberships, abolitionist movements and temperance movements.

Sources:

The-Tariff-of-Abominations

https://www.presidentprofiles.com/Washington-Johnson/John-Quincy-Adams-The-panama-congress.html#google_vignette

Foreign policy event:  Indian Removal Act (May 28, 1830) In 1830, Jackson signed the Indian Removal act, which allowed the president the power to accelerate the removal of American Indian communities in both Eastern and Western territories. This act unfortunately triggered the forced removal of Cherokees, Creeks, and other Southern Native American nations.

Domestic policy event: Force Bill (March 1, 1833) The Force Bill, passed by Congress upon Jackson’s request, authorized Jackson to use military force to receive compliance for federal law. South Carolina was not compliant, so both Jackson and Vice President Colhoun voiced this matter.

Economic event: Specie Circular 1836 (July 11, 1836) President Jackson and Treasury Secretary Levi Woodbury introduced the Specie Circular. This act was an attempt to slow the increase of inflation by only accepting silver and gold for land payments.

Political event: Jackson’s Inauguration (March 4, 1829) Upon Jackson's inauguration March of 1829, a party was thrown at the white house. Thousands of people participated in the celebration ceremony and the white house was open to all, allowing everyone to run around wild. This caused destruction to the white house and was ultimately a chaotic start to his presidential career.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/andrew-jackson/key-events

Foreign policy event: Maine crisis (late 1838) Along the border of Maine and Canada, Americans began settling on lands owned by both the United States and Great Britain. British troops forcibly removed some of these settlers and imprisoned others, forcing Van Buren to settle the crisis. Van Buren met with the British minister to resolve the border issue, this ultimately diffused tensions and prevented war between the two nations.

Domestic policy event: Trail of Tears (1838-1839) The Trail of Tears was a direct result of Jackson’s Indian removal act. The Trail of Tears was the brutal route for the “Five Civilized Tribes” which included Creek, Chickasaw, Seminole, Choctaw, and Charokee Indians. They were forcibly removed from their homes and were forced to take the journey from their ancestral lands to territory west of the Mississippi River.

Economic event: Panic of 1837: The Panic of 1837 was an intense economic depression that resulted from low crop prices, banking problems, and overspeculation for land. It caused lots of hardships for America’s economy and caused widespread unemployment and higher rates of poverty. 

Artistic movement: Realism (1840-1880) Realism became incredibly popular in America because it portrayed ordinary living scenes, often in cities or towns. Some artists took advantage of this detailoriented art style to romanticize American scenery, convincing more people to move to or visit the United States.

Sources:

https://www.exploros.com/summary/Martin-Van-Buren-Domestic-Affairs-Section-on-Economic-Panic-of-1837

Foreign policy event: Minimal presidential interference with the military (March 1841) Since Harrison only served as president for a month before he passed, foreign policy events to minimal to none. Harrison believed the president should avoid involvement in military duties and intervention. During the month of his presidency, America maintained good relations with surrounding nations.

Domestic policy event: Pro-slavery (1841) Although he supported Clay’s American system, Harrison did not agree with Clay’s ideas to limit the spread of slavery. President Harrison was a “southerner when it came to slavery (millercenter.org), and opposed any attempt by Congress to restrict it.

Political event: Hard Cider campaigning (1841) During the presidential election, the Whig party had nominated candidate William Harrison for office. Campaigning strategies included the handing out of hard cider as well as catchy slogans such as “Old Tippecanoe and Tyler, Too” to promote both Presidential Candidate Harrison and Vice President candidate John Tyler.

Social event: 1st President to die in office (April 4,1841) After delivering his inaugural address outdoors during the March winter, President Harrison caught a respiratory infection. He was 68-years old and wasn’t wearing a hat or coat, putting him at high risk for pneumonia or a disease similar. He died of a respiratory infection not long after making him the first to die in office

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/harrison/life-in-brief#:~:text=He%20consistently%20opposed%20any%20attempt,as%20U.S.%20minister%20to%20Colombia.

Foreign policy event: Webster-Ashburton treaty (August 9, 1842) The Webster-Ashburton Treaty was negotiated between the United States and Great Britain. It was an agreement to resolve border disputes, primarily around the Maine and Great Lakes border. The treaty also discussed other matters such as the supressing of transatlantic slave trade and the extradiction of criminals.

Domestic policy event: The Black tariff (August 30, 1842) The Tariff of 1842, or the Black Tariff, was reluctantly signed by John Tyler and charged a 20% or higher tax of dutiable goods. Its impacts were immediate, and international trade declined by approximately 20%. Upon popular demand to repeal the tariff for future trade opportunities, it was later repealed by the Walker Tariff.

Political event: Commonwealth v. Hunt (March 1842) The 1842 case Commonwealth v. Hunt would be considered a landmark case because it declared labor unions as constitutional and legal. Held in the Massachusetts Supreme Court, this case ruling resulted in higher Union membership and eventually improved wages and working conditions, since strikes were also legalized.

Economic event: Vetoed National Bank (June 1841) After both Treasury Secretary Thomas Ewing and Henry Clay proposed bills for the national banks renewal, President Tyler declined both. Tyler believed Clay's bill was unconstitutional, resulting in a veto and Ewing's proposal was dismissed. Due to Tyler’s response, numerous Whigs and newspapers criticized the President.

Sources:

Commonwealth-v-Hunt https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidency_of_John_Tyler#:~:text=Clay's%20bill%20passed%20Congress%20on,of%20the%20country%20at%20stake.

Foreign policy event: Annexation of Oregon (June 15. 1846) In the Summer of 1846, while settling a border dispute, Great Britain and America negotiated an agreement to give the Oregon territory to the U.S. Through the signing of the Oregon Treaty of 1846, a new parallel was created as a boundary between the countries, giving America control over Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and Montana.

Domestic policy event: Independent Treasury Act of 1846 (August 6, 1846) The Independent Treasury Act, also known as the Sub-Treasury Act separated the U.S. Treasury from commercial banks, and instead established a separate system. This system had government funds managed directly by the federal government through sub treasuries. Goals of this act were to reduce the influence of private banks on government finances.

War: Mexican American War (April 25, 1846-February 2, 1848) As Manifest Destiny feelings continued to accelerate, many disputes began to occur over the Texas border. After the Treaties of Velasco declared Texas American territory, some Mexicans still claimed the territory as their own. Many border skirmishes occurred,, such as the Thornton Affair, and the U.S. capture of Mexico City. A result of this war would be the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ceded a large portion of Mexican territory to the U.S..

Social event: Seneca Falls Convention (July 19-29, 1848) In Seneca Falls, New York, the first woman's rights convention took place. It was organized by leaders of the women's suffrage movement such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. At this convention, the Declaration of Sentiments was produced, modeled similar to the Declaration of Independence, and outlined grievances and the desire for equality women experienced.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/polk/domestic-affairs

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican%E2%80%93American_War

https://www.history.com/articles/seneca-falls-convention

Foreign policy event: Clayton-Buwler treaty (April 19, 1850) The Clayton-Bulwer Treaty was an agreement between the United States and Great Britain regarding the construction, maintenance, and ownership of any canal across Central America. This treaty is directed towards the nation's greater purpose to avoid colonizing or controlling any Central American nation or territory.

Domestic policy event: Cholera epidemic (June 1849) The United States experienced a devastating cholera epidemic as the disease originating in Europe spread across the globe by ships, railroads, and steamboats. Its impacts were most severe on larger cities such as New York, Boston, and St. Louis, and an estimated 10,000+ people died from the illness. 

Political event: Compromise of 1850 (May 1, 1850) As Congress debated solutions for newly acquired territories and whether or not slavery should be allowed there, Henry Clay came up with the Compromise of 1850. This compromise admitted California as a free state but increased the sternness of the fugitive slave laws. The Compromise of 1850 was aimed to ease tensions between the North and South.

Social event: Pro-slavery vs. Abolitionist debates intensify (1850) Although the Compromise of 1850 aimed to reduce regional tensions between the North and the SOuth, it actually further polarized them, since it did not solve the issue of slavery’s expansion. Henry Clay played a major role in speaking out against slavery’s expansion while John C. Calhoun argued limiting slavery was endangering Southern rights and potential for success.

Sources:

https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/us-history/civil-war-era/sectional-tension-1850s/a/compromise-of-1850 https://millercenter.org/president/zachary-taylor/key-events

Foreign policy event: Perry expedition (July 8, 1853) President Fillmore ordered Matthew C. Perry to lead a U.S. naval mission to Japan in 1853.The goal of this expedition was to force Japan to open their ports to American trade and end it’s period of isolationism. The Treaty of Kanagawa resulted from this and this opened up certain Japanese ports to American ships.

Domestic policy event: Fugitive slave law (September 18, 1850) The Fugitive Slave act permitted any individual from helping or aiding a runaway slave. Those who violated the law would be punished by fine or by jail time. FIllmore signed this act September of 1850, as a part of the Compromise of 1850.

Economic event: California Gold Rush (1848-1855) Following the discovery of gold in California, a large number of people migrated to the western states in America. This gold rush not only increased California’s population, but it also led to the creation of boomtowns and stimulated rapid economic growth. 

Literacy event: Uncle Tom’s Cabin published (June 5, 1851) Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin depicts the horrors of slavery. This book helped generate greater support for abolitionist causes. By 1853, over 300,000 copies were sold, primarily in the North.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/millard-fillmore/key-events

https://www.history.navy.mil/research/library/exhibits/commodore-matthew-c-perry-and-the-opening-of-japan.html#:~:text=Introduction,modernization%20of%20the%20Japanese%20state.

Foreign policy event: Ostend manifesto (October 18, 1854) The Ostend Manifesto was a document drafted by three American diplomats in Ostend, Belgium. They were advocating for the United States to acquire Cuba from the Spanish through diplomatic or military force.

Domestic policy event: Kansas-Nebraska Act (May 30, 1854) The Kansas-Nebraska act repealed the Missouri Compromise and created the two territories of Kansas and Nebraska. The territories would be determined free or slave states by a popular vote.

Internal Conflict event: “Bleeding Kansas” (May-June 1854) Bleeding Kansas was a direct effect of the Kansas-Nebraska act and was a violent uprising between pro-slavery and anti-slavery Americans. Desperate to “win over” Kansas, both groups rushed over the new borders resulting in lots of conflict and even death.

Economic event: Gadson purchase (December 30, 1853) The Gadsden Purchase was an agreement between the U.S. and Mexico, and added nearly 30,000 square miles of land to American territory. The United States paid Mexico $10 million for the land.

Sources:

https://www.senate.gov/artandhistory/history/minute/Kansas_Nebraska_Act.htm#:~:text=The%20Kansas%2DNebraska%20Act%20repealed,territories%20to%20sway%20the%20vote.

Foreign policy event: Warning to the British (1858) After British presence continued to increase in Central America, President Buchanan decided to send the British a warning. He sent Navy ships to counter British ships and assert American sovereignty. 

Domestic policy event: Dred Scott Court Decision (March 6, 1857) The Dres Scott v. Sandford case decision was delivered early March of 1857. The ruling stated that enslaved people were not citizens of the United States–and therefore could not receive federal protection.

Economic event: Panic of 1857 (August 1857-1859) A variety of factors caused the major economic Panic of 1857: such as over-investment, inflation, low crop demand, and primarily the failure of the Ohio Life Insurance and Trust Company. Buchanan responded with a laissez-faire attitude. 

Conflict event: Utah war (1857-1858) The Utah War, or Buchanan’s Blind was a conflict between the U.S. government and Morman settlers in Utah. Buchanan unexpectedly replaces the Utah governor with another man, causing lots of anger and disruptions, but no physical battles.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/buchanan/foreign-affairs https://historytogo.utah.gov/utah-war/#:~:text=The%20Utah%20War%2C%201857%E2%80%931858,and%20adopted%20a%20defensive%20posture.https://millercenter.org/president/buchanan/domestic-affairs

Foreign policy event: Trent affair (November 1861) After a U.S. naval ship intercepted the British mail ship, Trent, it was discovered that 2 Confederate diplomats were on their way to Britain to seek support in war. This was a violation of neutrality and almost led to war between Britain and the United States.

Domestic policy event: The Enrollment Act of 1863 (March 3, 1863) The Enrollment, or Conscription Act was passed to fix the lack of military volunteers, making it the 1st military draft in American history. It required all men between 20-35 years old to register for a military draft.

War event: The Civil War (April 12, 1861- April 9, 1865 ) The Civil war was a conflict between the United States and Confederate States of America. Key events included the Battle at Fort Sumter, the Battle of Gettysburg, and the takeover of Vicksburg. Lee, the leader of the Confederates States, surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant at the Appomattox Court House April 9, 1865.

Political event: Emancipation Proclamation (September 22, 1862) Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation which stated all enslaved individuals in Confederate areas were declared free. The Proclamation was declared to go into effect January 1, 1863. This foreshadows the event that also occurred during the Lincoln administration, the ratification of the 13th Amendment. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/abraham-lincoln/key-events

Foreign policy event: Alaska purchase (March 30, 1867) The purchase of Alaska, also known as Seward’s icebox, was agreed upon by a treaty between the U.S. secretary of state William Seward and Russia. The land was purchased for $7.2 million dollars.

Domestic policy event: 14th Amendment passed (June 19, 1866) The 14th amendment serves multiple purposes including guaranteeing African Ameriffcans citizenship, preventing former Confederates from holding office, and lastly overturning the Dred Scott decision. It states that “all persons born or naturalized…are citizens of the United States.”

Political event: Black Code (1865-1866) During Johnson’s Reconstruction of the South, the Southern states enacted Black codes, which restricted the freedom and rights of former slaves. Black codes primarily focused on controlling Black labor opportunities and political activities.

Economic/Social event: Freedmen’s Bureau (1865) The Freedmen’s Bureau provided food, shelter, clothing, land, and medical services to less fortunate Southerners, primarily newly freed African Americans. The Bureau helped transfer African Americans from slavery to freedom by providing economic support and basic necessities. 

Sources:

https://www.history.com/articles/black-codes https://millercenter.org/president/andrew-johnson/key-events 

Foreign policy event: Treaty of Washington (May 8, 1871) The Treaty of Washington settled disputes between the U.S. and Great Britain post-Civil War. The U.S. was repaid for Alabama Claims (U.S. shipping damage) damages and the treaty established peace between the two countries.

Domestic policy event: Enforcement Acts (1870-1871) The Enforcement, or Force Acts, were a series of laws aimed to protect African American Civil Rights. One of these enforcement acts–The Ku Klux Klan Act–provided Grant with the right to use military force to suppress Klan violence.

Social event: Rise of KKK (1868-1870’s) The Ku Klux Klan had a growing presence in the South after the passage of the 13th and 14th amendments. This terrorist organization advocated for white supremacy ideas and terrorized African American citizens. 

Political event: Ratification of 15th Amendment (February 3, 1870) The fifteenth amendment confirmed African American citizens the right to vote. The amendment states that states cannot deny the right to vote based on color, race, or previous conditions of servitude.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/ulysses-s-grant/key-events

Foreign policy event: Supported immigration from China (1878) Legislatives attempted to pass a bill restricting ships to no more than 15 Chinese passengers each. Hayes vetoed the bill and enforced the1868 Burlingame Treaty, which allowed for unrestricted Chinese immigration to the U.S..

Domestic policy event: Compromise of 1877 The Compromise of 1877 was an informal deal that settled the 1876 Presidential election. Congress stated that Hayes would be elected as President but he would have to withdraw troops from the South. 

Social event: Great Railroad Strike of 1877 After a large group of railroad workers went on a riot and began a strike over long hours and unfair wages, the state militia unsuccessfully dealt with the conflict. This forced Hayes to exert

Commander in Chief authorities and send federal troops to end the Railway Strike.

Economic event: Bland-Allison Act (February 1878) The Bland-Allison act was vetoed by President Hayes but overridden by Congress. This act stated that the limited coinage of silver was allowed, if done through the U.S. Secretary of Treasury. This was an important economic event because it increased the occurrence of silver in money circulation. 

Sources:

https://www.rbhayes.org/hayes/overview-of-the-hayes-presidency/ https://millercenter.org/president/hayes/foreign-affairs

Foreign policy event: Laissez-Faire (1881) Foreign Policy issues were ignored throughout Garfield’s term, as both the President and Secretary of State were more concerned with issues such as patronage. Current foreign issues such as Latin American affairs, Chinese Immigration, and fishing disputes with Britain were all left alone throughout Garfield’s short term.

Domestic policy event: Merit Based system (1881) Although Garfield was a supporter of a Merit-based government appointment system, it wasn’t until his assisination when the system was truly put into place. Garfield supported a system of government where leadership was determined by education and political ability, rather than political ties (patronage).

Political event: Filibuster (May, 1881) A democratic filibuster, long speeches to delay the passage of a bill, tied up the Senate May of 1881. It ended after President Garfield agreed to remove certain appointees from Congress.

Social event: American Association of the Red Cross (May 21, 1881) Clara Barton organized the American Association of the Red Cross, inspired by the International Red Cross in Washington, D.C.. The AARC aims to provide support for American citizens, specifically following war or natural disaster events.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/james-garfield/key-events 

Foreign policy event: U.S. Navy improvements (1884) President Chester, also known as the “Father of the Steel Navy” made many improvements in America's military. He sought to build steam-powered steel cruisers and other steel boats; he also established the Naval War College and the Office of Naval Intelligence through Secretary of the Navy William Chandler.

Domestic policy event: Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act (January 1883) The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act established a merit-based system for federal employment. This replaces the patronage system previously used in America, where political positions were provided through connections. 

Economic event: Panic of 1884 (1884) The Panic of 1884 occurred as a result of bank and financial institution failures. It was a significant economic downturn that let to credit shortage and a decline in America’s economy. 

Political event: Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 (1882) Due to the increase in Chinese miners, the Chinese Exclusion Act was passed. This federal law prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers for ten years and also denied naturalization rights to anyone of Chinese descent. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/arthur/foreign-affairs

Foreign policy event: Statue of Liberty (June 1885) The Statue of Liberty arrived in New York in 1885, and was a gift from France to the U.S.. The Statue represented immigrants’ opportunity for success and freedom and was a beacon of hope for many. 

Domestic policy event: Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 (1887) The Interstate Commerce Act established the first federal agency, the Interstate Commerce Commision. The ICC was created to regulate the railroad industry and prevent corrupt practices within it, such as monopolies and discriminatory rates. 

Social event: Dawes Act (1887) The Dawes act was signed into law by President Cleveland and impacted Native American tribes nationwide. It authorized the President to break up Native American lands into individual areas. This was an attempt of assimilation and forced some Natives to adopt U.S. culture. 

Political event: Election of 1888 (November 1888) Grover Cleveland and Benjamin Harrison were the two candidates in the 1888 election. Although Cleveland won the popular vote, he lost the electoral vote to his Republican opponent, Harrison. Harrison took the victory in the election and was inaugurated in March of 1889. 

Sources:

https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/grover-cleveland-first-term-event-timeline

interstate-commerce-act

Foreign policy event: Berlin Conference (April 1889) The Berlin conference was a meeting between the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom and was a discussion of conflicts in Samoa. The conference concluded with a treaty which declared neutrality and independence of Samoa, with a protectorate over the islands. 

Domestic policy event: Mckinley tariff (October 1890) The Mckinely tariff was an idea of Congressional Representative William Mckinely and was intended to protect American industries from foreign competition. This law boosted protective tariff rates nearly 50%.

Political event: Sherman Antitrust Act (July 1890) The Sherman Antitrust act was passed in 1890 and forbade any practices that restrain commerce, including monopolies. The law was rarely enforced up until Theodore Roosevelt's presidency. 

Social event: NAWSA formed (February 1890) The National American Woman Suffrage Association was an organization formed to advocate for women’s suffrage. It was created when the National Woman Suffrage Association merged with the American Woman Suffrage Association.

Sources:

The-McKinley-Tariff-of-1890 https://millercenter.org/president/benjamin-harrison/key-events

Foreign policy event: Hawaii monarchy overthrown (January 1893) The United States supported the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and sent the U.S. Marines to assist in the conflict. Queen Liliuokalani was replaced by a provisional government, later named the Republic of Hawaii.

Domestic policy event: Panic of 1893 (May 1893) After two railroads went bankrupt on May 4, a sharp decline in the stock market occurred the next day. This economic depression involved widespread bank failures, business closures, and high unemployment. 

Economic event: repeal of Sherman Silver Purchase Act (November 1893) The Sherman Silver Purchase Act was passed by Harrison and was later repealed by Cleveland. The act that previously increased silver purchases by 50% supported miners and farmers, but also led to the economic panic of 1893.

Social event: Pullman Strike of 1894 (May 1894) Eugene Debs, president of the American Railway Union, organized a strike of the Pullman railway employees. Company workers were forced to have a higher cost of living and suffered low wages. The strike ended July 3, when Debs and others were arrested. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/grover-cleveland/key-events https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/grover-cleveland-first-term-event-timeline

Foreign policy event: Open Door Policy (1899) Mckinely was concerned Europe and Japan would close Chinese ports to U.S. commerce, so he authorized Secretary of State John Hay to issue an “open door” note to China. This note established the Open Door policy between the two nations: declaring free trade and mutual respect between them. 

Domestic policy event: Dingley Tariff Act (July 1897) President McKinely signed the Dingley Tariff Law, which raised protection against foreign goods. Although American industries didn’t need extreme protective tariffs anymore, some products were raised 91%, with the average tariff being 57%. 

War event: Spanish-American war (1898) The Spanish American War was triggered by a combination of factors including the sinking of USS Maine, Yellow Journalism, and the Cuban struggle for Independence. The United States won the war and gained the reputation of being the “World’s Police.”

Political Event: Annexation of Hawaii (July 7, 1898) President McKinely signed a bill that annexed the Hawaiian Islands. Following the Spanish American war, Hawaii’s importance became apparent; so McKinely pressured senators to fulfill Manifest Destiny and make Hawaii the 50th state of the U.S..

Sources:

Foreign-affairs https://millercenter.org/president/william-mckinley/key-events

Foreign policy event: Panama canal (1902) After the French failed to construct the Panama canal, the U.S. purchased it for $40 million dollars. Teddy Roosevelt’s plan for reconstruction of the canal made the cost of trade cheaper and faster, and ultimately established the U.S. as a global power. 

Domestic policy event: Meat inspection act (June 1906) The Meat Inspection act was a result of the report The Jungle, which revealed the horrendous processes in the meat-packing industry. The Meat Act required strict sanitary conditions in processing factories and made it illegal to misbrand meat products. 

Economic event: Trust Busting (1901-1909) Teddy Roosevelt was best known for busting trusts and disrupting the operation of monopolies. He strictly enforced the Sherman Antitrust Act and had many victories while doing so, such as the Northern Securities Company trust bust. 

Social event: National Park establishments (1902-1906) Roosevelt established multiple National Parks throughout his presidency. Some examples include Crater Lake, Wind Cave, Sully’s Hill, Platt National, and Mesa Verde. These parks not only preserved nature, but they also attracted tourists and provided aesthetically pleasing feelings. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/theodore-roosevelt/key-events https://www.nps.gov/thro/learn/historyculture/theodore-roosevelt-and-conservation.htm#:~:text=Roosevelt%20worked%20with%20his%20legislative%20branch%20to,Mesa%20Verde%20National%20Park%20(CO)%20%2D%201906.

Foreign policy event: Dollar Diplomacy (1909-1913) Dollar Diplomacy was Taft’s foreign policy approach and involved promoting American interests and influence through economic means, rather than through military force. This policy encouraged businesses to invest in foreign nations, often through loans. 

Domestic policy event: Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act (August 1909) The Payne-Aldrich tariff act was signed by President Taft and established a Tariff board. It sought to lower tariffs on goods coming into the United States. 

Social event: Progressive movement (1890s-1920s) The Progressive movement was a period characterized by the surplus of reform efforts, both socially and politically. Supporters of the movement sought to put an end to political corruption and the influence of monopolies. 

Political event: Split of Republican party (1909-1913) The Republican party was badly split between conservatives and progressives. This caused neither Taft nor Roosevelt to stand a chance in the election, allowing Wilson and the Democratic party to win. 

Sources:

https://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/time/ip/108646.htm#:~:text=The%20Progressive%20movement%20was%20a,political%20influence%20of%20large%20corporations.

https://millercenter.org/president/william-taft/key-events

Foreign policy event: League of Nations (1918) A part of Wilson’s 14 points for lasting peace was the creation of a League of Nations. He believed a “general association of nations” would promote international freedom and peace. Although President Wilson proposed the creation of the League of Nations, America never joined the group. 

Domestic policy event: 19th Amendment (May 1919) Congress ratifies the 19th Amendment, finally providing women with the right to vote. The Amendment states the right of citizens to vote shall not be denied on account of sex. 

Economic event: Clayton antitrust act (October 1914) The signing of the Clayton Antitrust Act strengthened the Sherman Antitrust Act. It prohibited exclusive sales contracts, predatory pricing, and rebates in corporations with a worth over $1 million dollars. It also legalized peaceful strikes and boycotts.

War event: World War I begins (April 2, 1917) Wilson originally advocated for neutrality originally, but after German U-boat attacks and some other conflicts, he decided to declare war on Germany. WWI was one of the most deadly wars resulting in a total of 40 million civilian and military deaths.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/woodrow-wilson/key-events https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I_casualties#:~:text=The%20total%20number%20of%20military,deadliest%20conflicts%20in%20human%20history.

Foreign policy event: Washington Naval Conference (November 1921) The Washington Naval Armament Conference was a meeting between Britain, France, Italy, Japan, and the United States. These nations signed a treaty limiting capital ship tonnage and a larger agreement was made including China, and other countries where everyone agreed to respect the American Open Door policy towards China. 

Domestic policy event: Eugene Debs pardoned (December 1921) Harding used his power to pardon Eugene Debs, who was found guilty for convicting the Espionage act in 1918. He also pardoned 23 other individuals who were imprisoned for the same conviction. 

Political event: Teapot Dome scandal (1922) Interior Secretary Albert Fall secretary leased federal oil reserves at Teapot Dome, Wyoming, with Harry Sinclair in exchange for bribes. This was revealed after a senate investigation and resulted in imprisonment for Albert Fall. 

Economic event: Federal Budget and Accounting Act (June 1921) The Budget and Accounting act organized the federal government’s accounts. It created the Bureau of the Budget and the General Accounting Office through the Treasury Department. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/warren-g-harding/key-events

Foreign policy event: Nicaragua Revolt (May 1926) Coolidge practiced interventionism and in 1926 he sent the U.S. Marines to Nicaragua to quiet a revolt that occurred during the Nicaraguan Civil War. The American military forces maintained a presence in Nicaragua until 1933. 

Domestic policy event: Scopes trial (1925) John Scopes, a public school teacher, is put on trial for teacher Darwin’s theory of evolution. Even though Scopes loses the trial and pays a $100 fine, this event gained national attention for the debate between science and religion.

Social event: Roaring 20s (1920-1929) The roaring twenties were a period of economic prosperity and innovative growth. Some key inventions during the 20’s were Model T cars, the radio, kitchen appliances, and magazines. The Great migration also occurred during the 20’s and was the movement of millions of African American to urban areas, primarily in the North, for economic opportunities.

Economic event: Buying on margin (1920s) Buying on margin became quite popular during the 20’s and was the process of taking loans to invest money in stocks. Although this idea seemed like a “hack” to gain lots of money, it would later be a key cause of the Great Depression. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/calvin-coolidge/key-events

Foreign policy event: Good Neighbor policy (1929-1933) Hoover’s foreign policy was non-intervention when it came to Latin America’s Domestic affairs. The United States would be a “good neighbor” and would maintain relations with Latin American nations.

Domestic policy event: Public works projects (1930) In December of 1930, Hoover asked Congress to fund public works projects. He hoped by doing this unemployment rates would improve. Congress complies shortly after and funds $116 million in jobs. 

Economic event: The Great Depression (1929-1939) The Great Depression was a long-term, severe economic depression. It began with the Stock Market crash on Black Thursday, that was a result of people buying on margin. Unemployment, poverty, and business failures were at an all time high and America was in some of the worst economic conditions in history. 

Social event: Dust Bowl (1930s) The Dust Bowl was an agricultural disaster in the Great Plains regions. It was a severe drought that led to crop failures and dust storms due to poor farming methods people previously relied on.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/herbert-hoover/key-events https://drought.unl.edu/dustbowl/#:~:text=The%20Dust%20Bowl%20%7C%20National%20Drought%20Mitigation%20Center&text=Of%20all%20the%20droughts%20that,entire%20nation%20during%20the%201930s.

Foreign policy event: Lend-Lease Act (March 1941) FDR signed the Lend-Lease Act, giving him the power to lend arms and other supplies to any country “vitale to U.S. interests.” It was an extension of aid to Britain and the allies, and by 1946 the United States would have provided $50.6 billion in foreign aid. 

Domestic policy event: New Deal→1st (1933-1934) The New Deal was a program designed by FDR that had many plans for reform during the time of the depression. President Roosevelt helped improve the lives of thousands of individuals both economically and socially.

War event: WW2 (1939-1945) Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, the United States quickly joined the conflict and declared war on Japan. The war ended when Germany and Japan surrendered, following the bombing of Hiroshima. The Paris Peace Treaties helped to resolve the war as well.

Economic event: Emergency Banking Act (March 1933) The Emergency Banking Act allowed banks to reopen, as long as they were able to prove their economic stability. Within three days of the acts passing, 1000 banks reopened. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/franklin-d-roosevelt/key-events

Foreign policy event: Truman doctrine (1947-1953) Truman delivered his “Truman Doctrine” speech to Congress and asked for $400 million dollars to contain the spread of communism, primarily in Greece and Turkey. He also requested military aid for these nations. His containment policy was known as the Truman Doctrine. 

Domestic policy event: Fair Deal (1945-1953) Inspired by Roosevelt’s New Deal, Truman’s Fair Deal included a wide range of desires. Some of them included raising minimum wage, agricultural reform, repeal of the Taft-Hartley act, and aid to educational and civil rights programs.

Conflict event: Hiroshima bombing (August 6, 1945) Hiroshima, Japan, was bombed on the morning of August 6, making America the first nation to drop an atomic bomb. The construction of the bomb was known as the Manhattan Project and Truman expressed his support for the program.

Economic event: Employment Act of 1946 (February 1946) The Employment Act increased the federal government’s responsibility over the nation's stability. It also created the Council of Economic Advisers, a three-member board who gives advice to the president about the economy. 

Sources:

https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/employment-act-of-1946#:~:text=The%20Employment%20Act%20of%201946%20created%20the%20Council%20of%20Economic,the%20economy%20and%20presents%20the

Foreign policy event: Eisenhower Doctrine (1957) The Eisenhower Doctrine was announced in January of 1957 and stated a country could request economic or military aid from America if the region was under communist threat. This was his attempt at containment. 

Domestic policy event: Federal Highway Act (June 1956) Eisenhower signed the Federal Aid Highway Act June 29, 1956. It authorized the construction of an interstate highway system for both transportation and national defense.

Social event: Civil Rights movement (1950s-1960s) The Civil Rights movement was a social movement to abolish segregation and racial discrimination. It most commonly affected African Americans, who had no choice but to protest against the corrupt system. 

Political event: The Red Scare (1950s) After American leaders continuously warned citizens about the influence of communism and the risk of spies, the Red Scare began. Journalists and McCarthyism accelerated the communist fears and caused mass hysteria in America.

Sources:

https://history.state.gov/milestones/1953-1960/eisenhower-doctrine https://millercenter.org/president/dwight-d-eisenhower/key-events

https://millercenter.org/the-presidency/educational-resources/age-of-eisenhower/mcarthyism-red-scare

Foreign policy event: Cuban Missile Crisis (October 1962) Shortly after discovering medium-range missiles in Cuba, the U.S. demands the Soviet minister to remove the missiles and puts Cuba under naval quarantine. Kennedy and Khrushchev came to a compromise; Kennedy removed U.S. missiles from Turkey and the Soviets then removed missiles from Cuba.  

Domestic policy event: March on Washington (August 28, 1963) The March on Washington had nearly 250,000 participants who traveled to D.C.. This famous March represented support for Civil Rights legislation and was where MLK Jr. performed his “I Have A Dream” speech. 

Political Event: Kennedy's Assasination (November 22, 1963) While traveling on a motorcycle, JFK was shot in Dallas, Texas. Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested for the murder of John F. Kennedy, and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in shortly after Kennedy’s death. 

War conflict: The Cold War (1947-1989) The Cold War was a political rivalry between the Soviet Union and the United States. It was caused by the difference in ideology between the two superpowers as well as American fears of communism. The war began to escalate during the Kennedy Administration, due to the Bay of Pigs and Cuban missile events. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/john-f-kennedy/key-events

Foreign policy event: Gulf of Tonkin incident (August 1964) After two American destroyers were attacked in the Gulf of Tonkin, President Johnson, who viewed the North Vietnamese’s actions as “unprovoked” used military force on Vietnam without going through Congress. His decision to escalate the Vietnam War was a

controversial one, and was arguably the worst choice of his presidency. 

Domestic policy event: The Great Society (May 1964-1968) Johnson announces his Great Society plan in a speech at the University of Michigan. He shares his intention to extend American prosperity, through reforms and legislation, to all citizens. 

Political event: Civil Rights Act of 1964 (July 1964) Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which outlawed all discrimination based on race, sec, color, religion, or ethnicity. It also prohibited discrimination at voting polls, as well as segregation in schools, employment, and public locations.

Social event: Bloody Sunday (1965) The Selma March, a protest for civil rights, unfortunately resulted in an event called Bloody Sunday. Peaceful protesters were brutally attacked by police in Montgomery Alabama, and the event made front-page headlines nationwide.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/lyndon-b-johnson/key-events

https://millercenter.org/the-presidency/educational-resources/tonkin-gulf 

Foreign policy event: Detente (1969-1974) Hoping to put an end to the Vietnam War, Nixon withdrew troops from the country and practiced detente as his foreign policy. Detente means the easing of hostility, which is what Nixon planned to do to end the war, build and maintain good relations with foreign nations. 

Domestic policy event: EPA formed (July 1970) Nixon persuades Congress to create the Environmental Protection Agency and puts forth a plan to improve air and water pollution in America. The EPA is a federal agency, meaning it received federal funding for projects.

Economic event: End of the Gold Standard (August 1971) The United States was taken off the gold standard by President Nixon, who was attempting to combat the increasing inflation rates. This also prohibited the exchange of dollars for gold, it could only be gold in exchange for dollars. 

Internal conflict: The Watergate scandal (June 1972) Nixon, fearful of losing the next election, sent spies to the Watergate Democratic Headquarters to investigate their campaign strategies. The spies were caught and Nixon resigned his position as President before all of the details of the scandal could be revealed.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/richard-nixon/key-events https://www.history.com/articles/detente

Foreign policy event: End of Vietnam war (April 1975) The Vietnam war officially ended April 30 with the fall of South Vietnam. The collapse of the Republic of South Vietnam was partly a result of American withdrawal from the war, and unfortunately led to the reunification of Vietnam under communist rule.

Domestic policy event: Energy reform (1975) Gerald Ford recognized the need for energy reform in America. He decided to sign the Energy Policy Conservation Act December 22, 1975 which promoted a more conservative energy approach and established CAFE standards for vehicles.

Political event: Nixon’s pardon (September 1974) Only a month after his inauguration, Ford decides to pardon Nixon. He grants a “full, free, and absolute pardon” to the former President Richard Nixon for his involvement in the Watergate scandal. 

Economic event: Stagflation (1970s) America’s economy in the 1970s had high unemployment, slow economic growth, and increasing inflation rates; economists described this economic standpoint as “stagflation.” Ford gathered support for ending inflation with his “Whip Inflation Now” campaign. 

Sources:

https://www.britannica.com/event/Vietnam-War/The-fall-of-South-Vietnam https://millercenter.org/president/ford/domestic-affairs https://millercenter.org/president/gerald-ford/key-events

Foreign policy event: Camp David Accords (September 1978) Jimmy Carter mediated a discussion between the Israel minister and the minister of Egypt at Camp David. This meeting resulted in a peace treaty between the two nations; the Camp David Accords were a very significant foreign policy achievement.

Domestic policy event: Department of Education (October 1979) The Department of Education was established under Carter’s administration which played a critical role in policy, funding, and law enforcement in schools. He appointed Shirley Hufstedler as the department’s secretary.

Conflict event: Iran Hostage Crisis (1979) 52 American diplomats were kidnapped by Iranian students and were held hostage for 444 days, making it the longest hostage situation in history. Iran was forced to negotiate release, which occurred in January of 1981.

Political event: SALT treaty signed (June 1979) The Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty was signed by both Carter and the USSR. The Senate refused to ratify the treaty but both nations agreed to the limitation of arms and nuclear weapons regardless.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/jimmy-carter/key-events

Foreign policy event: Invasion of Grenada (October 1983) U.S. forces invade Grenada to overthrow the military government that had carried out a coup days before. The Americans easily subdued the opposing forces within a few days, since Grenada was a small island country. 

Domestic policy event: Water Quality Control Act (February 1987) Despite Reagan’s veto of the Water Quality Control Act, Congress passed the law with an override. This allowed the EPA to regulate pollutants in U.S. waters.

Economic event: Reaganomics (1981-1989) Reaganomics refers to the economic policies instituted by President Reagan. His economic policies focus on tax cuts, decreased social spending, and deregulation of American markets. Reagan also increased military spending.

Social event: LBGTQ movement (1980s) The LBGTQ movement was accelerated during the 80s with the rise of an AIDS epidemic, which was deadly for many. Advocates for the movement supported same-sex marriage, AIDS research, social services, and equal treatments/oppurtunities.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/ronald-reagan/key-events https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/reaganomics.asp lgbt-issues-in-the-1980s

Foreign policy event: End of the Cold War (December 1989) Not long after the fall of the Berlin wall, Hungary and Austria had opened their borders. The government was taken out of the hands of communist leaders, marking the end of the Cold War. 

Domestic policy event: Americans with Disabilities Act (July 1990) The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law by Bush and had 4 titles: no discriminatory hiring, no discrimination in public or government owned areas,

accommodations at businesses for the disabled, and telecommunication systems.

War event: Gulf War (1990) After Iran invaded Kuwait–starting the Gulf War–, Bush met with the National Security Council to discuss a U.S. response to the event. The U.S. along with the United Nations stated to protect Kuwait by “all means necessary.”

Political event: The Fall of the Berlin Wall (November 1989) The Berlin Wall Falls November 9, marking the end of Communist rule in Eastern Europe. Before it’s destruction, the wall represented a barrier between communism and democracy, so this event was very significant to citizens of Germany.

Sources:

https://socialwelfare.library.vcu.edu/issues/disability/george-bush-and-the-americans-with-disabilities-act/#:~:text=The%20Contents%20of%20the%20Law,speech%20and%20hearing%20impaired%20individuals. https://millercenter.org/president/george-h-w-bush/key-events https://millercenter.org/statecraftmovie/gulf-war

Foreign policy event: NAFTA (December 1993) The North American Free Trade Agreement eliminated nearly all trade barriers between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This made North America the largest free trade zone in the world and was signed into law by Bush December 8.

Domestic policy event: The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act (September 1994) Clinton was focused on strengthening law enforcement. So, he signed the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act which expanded the death penalty to 50+ federal crimes and provided the hiring of more than 100,000 police. 

Economic event: Emergency loans (January 1995) President Clinton noticed the high threat financial crisis in Mexico, so he authorized the U.S. Treasury Department to make an emergency loan of up to $20 billion dollars. Since the American and Mexican economies were so interconnected, a financial crisis for one nation could lead to a crisis in the other. 

Political event: Impeachment (1998) Bill Clinton was impeached by the House of Representative December 19. They charged his for both lying under oath as well as obstruction of justice. The impeachment was caused by Clinton’s sexual relationship with a White House intern Monica Lewinsky. 

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/bill-clinton/key-events

Foreign policy event: 9/11 attacks (September 11, 2001) The United States were attacked when terrorists hijacked four planes and intentionally crashed them. The World Trade Centers Twin Towers were both hit and the Pentagon building. The last plane was headed towards the White House but crashed in Pennsylvania. 

Domestic policy event: No Child Left Behind Act (January 8, 2002) President Bush signed an education reform bill that offered authorities greater flexibility in spending federal dollars. The bill also required standardized math and reading tests, which are still administered modern day.

War event: Iraq war (March 2003-December 2011) President Bush declared war with Iraq March 19, after many conflicts had occurred between the nations. The war continued throughout Bush’s entire term and ended during Obama’s term in U.S. victory

Social event: Hurricane Katrina (2005) Hurricane Katrina strikes the U.S. August of 2005. The storm had devastating effects and caused massive flooding and destruction of property. The Bush administration is harshly criticized for their inadequate response to the storm’s effects.

Sources:

https://millercenter.org/president/george-w-bush/key-events

Foreign policy event: Iran Nuclear Deal (January 2016) Obama announces an agreement with Iran that asked them to prevent the acquisition of nuclear weapons. Iran met with the conditions the U.S. proposed in exchange for the United States to lift some economic sanctions.

Domestic policy event: Obama Care (March 2010) Obama Care, a combination of both the Patient Protection Act and Affordable Care Act, made significant changes to the U.S. healthcare system. Obama hoped to increase the quality, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare to all Americans. 

Social events: BLM movement (2010s) The Black Lives Matter Movement sought for an end to racial discrimination and police brutality. Obama was an open supporter of the movement and defended their reputation throughout his presidency.

Political event: “Don't Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal (December 2010) The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy was repealed by Obama on December 22. This meant gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals were able to be open about their sexuality while serving in the U.S. military.

Sources:

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/obama-defends-black-lives-matter-movement

https://millercenter.org/president/barack-obama/key-events