Modern U.S. History: 1980s to the Early 21st Century

Vocabulary terms and definitions related to U.S. social issues, political movements, economic crises, and foreign policy from the 1980s through the Obama administration.

AIDS

A major health crisis in the $1980s$ that caused fear, discrimination, and debates over government response and healthcare funding.

“Just Say No!”

An anti-drug campaign led by Nancy Reagan that encouraged young people to avoid drugs.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

A law signed by George H. W. Bush that banned discrimination against people with disabilities.

Ross Perot

Independent candidate in $1992$ who focused on the national debt and government reform.

Hillary Clinton

Played a major role in healthcare reform efforts during Bill Clinton’s presidency.

George H. W. Bush

A pragmatic and cautious leader who worked across party lines and signed the ADA, but faced economic challenges.

Newt Gingrich

Republican leader who helped Republicans gain control of Congress in $1994$.

Contract with America

Republican platform promoting lower taxes, smaller government, welfare reform, and a balanced budget.

Impeachment of Bill Clinton

A process triggered by perjury and obstruction of justice related to testimony about a personal scandal.

Bush v. Gore

Supreme Court case that decided the disputed $2000$ presidential election.

Al-Qaeda

Terrorist group responsible for the September $11$, $2001$ attacks.

USA PATRIOT Act

Law that expanded government surveillance powers after $9/11$ to combat terrorism.

Saddam Hussein

Leader of Iraq during the Iraq War.

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons that Iraq was accused of possessing.

Abu Ghraib prison

Prison where U.S. soldiers abused Iraqi detainees, leading to criticism of human rights violations.

Great Recession

Major economic crisis involving unemployment, housing collapse, and financial instability.

Housing Bubble

Rapid rise in housing prices caused by risky lending and speculation, which eventually collapsed.

“Bailout” (TARP)

Government program that gave money to banks and businesses to prevent economic collapse.

“Stimulus Package” (ARRA)

Government spending plan intended to create jobs and stimulate the economy after the recession.

Obamacare / Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA)

Healthcare reform law expanding insurance coverage and regulating insurance companies.

Guantanamo Bay Controversy

Criticism focused on prisoner abuse, harsh interrogation techniques, and human rights violations.