History last chapter

30.5 - Jimmy Carter in the Aftermath of the Storm

• The 1976 Election and Carter's Political Rise

  • In the 1976 presidential election, Jimmy Carter, a former governor of Georgia, secured the Democratic nomination and the presidency. Campaigning as an outsider untainted by Washington politics, Carter emphasized his commitment to combating racism, sexism, and overhauling the tax system. His promise to "never lie" resonated with voters disillusioned by the Watergate scandal. Carter won the election with 50% of the popular vote and 297 electoral votes, defeating President Gerald Ford, who had narrowly defeated Ronald Reagan for the Republican nomination.

• Domestic Policies and Economic Challenges

  • Upon taking office, Carter focused on various domestic issues:

  • Economic Stagnation: Faced with a 7.5% unemployment rate and double-digit inflation by 1978, Carter's administration struggled to implement effective economic reforms.

• Tax Reform and Deregulation: While Carter introduced tax reforms and deregulated industries like aviation and trucking, the measures were seen as insufficient. Deregulation led to benefits like lower airline fares but also resulted in the collapse of some companies

• Energy Crisis: The administration created the Department of Energy and promoted energy conservation, including tax credits for home insulation. Carter also advocated for alternative energy sources like solar power and nuclear energy.

• Foreign Policy and the Iranian Hostage Crisis

  • Carter's foreign policy was marked by a dedication to human rights and moral principles

  • Panama Canal Treaty: In 1977, Carter negotiated the return of the Panama Canal to Panama, a move that cost him significant political capital.
    Camp David Accords: Carter negotiated peace between Egypt and Israel in 1978. 

  • lead to the Camp David Accords and a peace treaty in 1979

  • Iranian Hostage Crisis

    • In 1979, fifty-three American diplomats were taken hostage in Tehran after the U.S. embassy was seized. Negotiations failed, and a rescue attempt in 1980 ended in disaster. The hostages were released on January 20, 1981, the day Ronald Reagan took office

• Decline in Public Confidence

  • The Iranian Hostage Crisis, coupled with ongoing economic difficulties, led to a decline in public confidence. Carter's inability to resolve the crisis and the portrayal of his administration's weakness in the media contributed to a sense of national malaise. In response to Soviet aggression in Afghanistan, Carter introduced the Carter Doctrine in 1980, declaring that any Soviet attempt to interfere with U.S. interests in the Middle East would be met with force.

31.1 -  The Reagan Revolution

• The Rise of the New Right and Reagan's Election

  • In the 1980 presidential election, Ronald Reagan secured a decisive victory over incumbent Jimmy Carter. This triumph was propelled by a resurgence of conservative sentiment, known as the New Right, which emerged in response to the social reforms and cultural changes of the 1960s and 1970s. The New Right coalition included evangelical Christians, such as those aligned with Jerry Falwell's Moral Majority, who opposed issues like abortion, the feminist movement, and sex education in public schools. Additionally, Reagan attracted neoconservatives—middle- and working-class individuals who resented the expansion of federal and state governments and the accompanying tax increases during the late 1960s and 1970s. This coalition's support was instrumental in Reagan's electoral success and the Republican Party's gains in the Senate

• Reaganomics: Economic Policies and Their Impact

  • Upon taking office, Reagan implemented a series of economic policies collectively known as "Reaganomics," which were grounded in supply-side economics. Influenced by economist Arthur Laffer, the theory posited that reducing income taxes for the wealthy would incentivize investment, leading to job creation and overall economic growth. Critics, however, labeled this approach "trickle-down economics," arguing that it disproportionately benefited the rich without adequately addressing the needs of the poor

  • Reagan's administration succeeded in passing the Economic Recovery Tax Act in 1981, which phased in a 25% reduction in income taxes over three years. Despite these tax cuts, federal spending increased, particularly in defense, leading to a significant rise in the national debt. Additionally, while Reagan's policies aimed to reduce government intervention, he established the Department of Veterans Affairs and increased the number of federal employees. Social programs like Medicaid and food assistance saw budget cuts, whereas entitlement programs such as Social Security and Medicare remained largely untouched, except for payroll tax increases to ensure their solvency

• Social and Cultural Shifts

  • The Reagan era also witnessed significant social and cultural developments. The administration's policies contributed to the weakening of labor unions, exemplified by the 1981 firing of 12,000 federal air traffic controllers who had gone on strike. This action set a precedent for employers replacing striking workers, leading to a decline in union power and stagnation in real wages for many American families

  • Culturally, the 1980s saw the rise of the "Yuppie" (Young Urban Professional), a demographic characterized by materialism and a focus on economic prosperity. This shift marked a departure from the countercultural movements of the previous decades, reflecting broader societal changes during Reagan's presidency.

31.2 - Political and Cultural Fusions

• Political Conservatism and the Religious Right

  • The 1980s saw a surge in political conservatism, with President Ronald Reagan's election symbolizing a shift away from liberal policies. The Religious Right, a coalition of evangelical Christians, played a pivotal role in this movement, advocating for traditional family values and opposing abortion and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Their influence led to efforts to limit the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and to promote policies reflecting their moral perspectives.

• Cultural Conservatism and Moral Concerns

  • Cultural conservatism manifested in various ways, including the formation of the Parents Music Resource Center in 1985. The PMRC aimed to introduce a rating system for music to warn consumers about explicit content. This initiative sparked debates about censorship and artistic freedom, with musicians like Dee Snider and John Denver testifying against the proposed measures

• Response to the HIV/AIDS Crisis

  • The HIV/AIDS epidemic disproportionately affected the gay community, leading to widespread fear and stigma. The federal government's initial inaction prompted the formation of advocacy groups like the Gay Men's Health Crisis and ACT UP. These organizations fought for research, treatment, and public awareness, challenging both governmental and societal neglect

• The War on Drugs and Mass Incarceration

  • The Reagan administration's War on Drugs led to stringent drug laws and mandatory minimum sentences, disproportionately impacting Black and Hispanic communities. This approach contributed to a significant increase in the U.S. prison population, raising concerns about racial disparities and the effectiveness of such policies.

31.3 -  A New World Order

• U.S. Foreign Policy Post-Cold War - Following the Cold War, the United States sought to redefine its role on the global stage. President George H. W. Bush aimed to establish a "new world order," emphasizing collective security and international cooperation. This vision was tested through various international engagements.

• Persian Gulf War (1990–1991) - The invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in August 1990 prompted a swift response from the international community. President Bush led a coalition of 34 nations, including NATO members and Arab states like Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to expel Iraqi forces. The operation, known as Desert Storm, was characterized by a rapid and decisive military campaign, culminating in the liberation of Kuwait. This conflict showcased the effectiveness of multilateral military action and reinforced the U.S.'s commitment to maintaining global stability

• The End of the Cold War - The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the end of the Cold War era. This shift allowed the U.S. to pivot its foreign policy focus toward regional conflicts and humanitarian concerns, rather than the ideological battle against communism. However, the end of the Cold War also brought new challenges, including the rise of non-state actors and the complexities of post-Cold War geopolitics.

31.4 Bill Clinton and the New Economy

• Economic Growth and Fiscal Responsibility - Upon taking office, Clinton inherited a recession and a $60 billion deficit. His administration implemented measures to reduce the deficit, including limiting spending and cutting the budget. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 raised taxes for the top 1.2% of earners, lowered taxes for 15 million low-income families, and offered tax breaks to 90% of small businesses. These efforts contributed to a record budget surplus of over $230 billion by 2000.

• Trade and Globalization - Clinton supported the North American Free Trade Agreement eliminating tariffs and trade restrictions among the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Despite opposition from labor unions and some in Congress, NAFTA was ratified in 1993, creating the world's largest common market with about 425 million people. 

• Technological Advancements - The 1990s saw significant technological advancements, including the internet. In 1994, the Clinton administration launched the first official White House website, welcoming the digital revolution and promoting global connectivity.

• Social Policies and Welfare Reform - Clinton's administration enacted the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act in 1996, which set time limits on welfare benefits and required most recipients to begin working within two years of receiving assistance. Additionally, the administration implemented the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy and signed the Defense of Marriage Act into law, defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman.

• Crime and Justice - The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, the largest federal crime law at the time, added new penalties, funding, and incentives for aggressive law enforcement. While aiming to reduce crime, the law contributed to increased incarceration rates, disproportionately affecting Black and Hispanic communities

32.3 - New Century, Old Disputes

• Who Is an American? As the U.S. became more diverse, especially with growing Hispanic populations, some conservatives advocated for English to be the official language and for stricter assimilation policies. In 2006, Arizona voters approved a proposition making English the official state language. Additionally, Arizona passed a law banning "ethnic studies" programs, including a popular Mexican American studies curriculum in Tucson, arguing that such programs promoted resentment and ethnic solidarity. The program was discontinued after the state threatened to withhold funding.

• What Is a Marriage? In the 1990s, the idea of same-sex marriage was largely unsupported by major political parties. The 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) federally defined marriage as between one man and one woman. However, Vermont legalized civil unions in 2000, and Massachusetts became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004. Despite backlash and the passage of state bans, momentum grew for marriage equality. By 2013, the Supreme Court ruled DOMA unconstitutional, and by 2015, same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide.

• What Is Climate Change? The debate over climate change intensified in the 2000s. The George W. Bush administration rejected the Kyoto Protocol and suppressed scientific reports on climate change. In contrast, Vice President Al Gore became a prominent advocate, producing the documentary "An Inconvenient Truth" in 2006, which won an Academy Award and helped raise public awareness. Gore shared the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for his efforts to educate the public about climate change.

32.4 - Hope and Change

• Economic Recovery and Stimulus - In response to the 2008 financial crisis, President Obama inherited the Troubled Asset Relief Program initiated under President George W. Bush. His administration oversaw the distribution of approximately $7.77 trillion to stabilize the nation's banking system. Recognizing the threat to major auto manufacturers, Obama secured $80 billion to assist Chrysler and General Motors, preventing significant layoffs and wage cuts. By 2013, these automakers had repaid over $50 billion of bailout funds. Additionally, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act injected nearly $800 billion into the economy to promote growth and job creation. 

• Healthcare Reform: The Affordable Care Act - A cornerstone of Obama's agenda was comprehensive healthcare reform. After extensive political negotiations, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, was signed into law in March 2010. The ACA aimed to provide all Americans with access to affordable health insurance, mandate that everyone acquire some form of health insurance, and lower healthcare costs. Despite opposition from Republicans and legal challenges from over twenty states, the ACA represented the most significant overhaul of the American healthcare system since the establishment of Medicaid in 1965. 

• The 2012 Election - In the 2012 presidential election, Obama faced Republican nominee Mitt Romney, a former governor of Massachusetts. Romney's remarks about the "47 percent" of Americans who he claimed were dependent on government assistance hurt his standing among low-income voters. Obama's support for the auto industry bailout and effective response to Hurricane Sandy bolstered his position. Despite a divided Congress, Obama secured re-election, though Republicans retained control of the House.

• Ongoing Challenges - During his second term, Obama confronted persistent economic issues, including stagnant growth and high unemployment in certain regions. The percentage of the population living in poverty remained around 15%. While the stock market reached historic highs, income inequality persisted, and many individuals remained in part-time employment or exited the job market entirely 

• Social Progress = Obama's administration witnessed significant advancements in LGBTQ+ rights. The Supreme Court's 2013 decision declared the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional, paving the way for nationwide recognition of same-sex marriage. Additionally, the Department of Education ruled that schools receiving federal funds could not discriminate against transgender students, and Medicare expanded coverage to include gender-affirming care.

Carter: Human Rights

• Reaffirmation of Commitment to Human Rights - Carter emphasized that the United States must uphold human rights as a fundamental aspect of its foreign policy, distinguishing this approach from previous administrations that, in his view, had compromised these values.
  Reinforcement of Bonds Among Democracies - He advocated for strengthening relationships with democratic nations through economic cooperation, free trade, and efforts to prevent nuclear expansion. This would promote shared values and stability.

• Engagement with the Soviet Union to Halt the Arms Race -  Carter called for direct negotiations with the Soviet Union to restrain the strategic arms race, viewing the expansion of nuclear weapons as dangerous and morally unjustifiable.

• Promotion of Comprehensive Peace in the Middle East - He highlighted the importance of achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. He recognizes the region's complexities and the necessity of diplomatic efforts to address longstanding conflicts.

• Reduction of Nuclear Proliferation and Conventional Arms Sales - Carter proposed measures to limit the spread of nuclear weapons and reduce the global trade in conventional arms, aiming to decrease the likelihood of conflict and promote international security

Schlafly: The Fraud of Equal Rights

• Women Enjoy Special Privileges - Schlafly argued that American women were the most privileged group. She believed that women were shielded from many societal burdens due to their roles as mothers and wives.

• The ERA Threatens Women's Legal Protections - She claimed that the ERA would eliminate protective laws that favored women, such as those granting alimony and child custody rights. Schlafly feared that the amendment would lead to situations where women could be forced to work or lose custody of their children in divorce cases

• Defense of Traditional Gender Roles - Schlafly emphasized the importance of traditional gender roles, viewing the family as very important. She believed that the ERA would disrupt these roles and lead to moral decay by promoting feminist ideals

• Critique of Feminist Movements - She believes feminist movements as radical and destructive, accusing them of waging an assault on the family, marriage, and children. Schlafly portrayed the push for equal rights as a deceptive movement that would harm women by leading them away from their natural roles.

Falwell: Listen, America

• Moral and Spiritual Crisism - Falwell argued that America was experiencing a moral and spiritual crisis, characterized by the erosion of traditional values. He believed that the nation's problems were rooted in a departure from biblical principles and that only a return to these values could restore the country's greatness.

• Call to Political Action - Falwell emphasized the importance of political involvement for Christians, urging them to vote, run for office, and influence public policy. He viewed political engagement as a moral obligation to protect and promote Christian values in society.

• Formation of the Moral Majority -  In response to what he perceived as a liberal agenda undermining American values, Falwell founded the Moral Majority in 1979. The organization aimed to mobilize conservative Christians to participate in the political process, advocating for issues such as pro-life policies, traditional family structures, and a strong national defense.

• Opposition to Liberal Social Policies - Falwell criticized various liberal social policies, including the Equal Rights Amendment, feminist movements, and the acceptance of homosexuality. He viewed these developments as threats to traditional family values and moral integrity.

• Emphasis on Revival and Repentance - Central to Falwell's message was the need for a spiritual revival in America. He called for a nationwide return to biblical teachings, repentance for sins, and a renewed commitment to living according to Christian principles.

Clinton: NAFTA Speech

• Clinton’s 1993 Predictions - During the NAFTA signing ceremony, President Clinton stated, “I believe that NAFTA will create a million jobs in the first five years of its impact.” 

• Post-NAFTA Economic Outcomes

  • Job Losses: Contrary to the prediction, the Economic Policy Institute estimated that the U.S. lost approximately 850,000 jobs between 1993 and 2013 due to NAFTA, primarily in manufacturing sectors

  • Wage Stagnation: Real wages in the U.S. and Mexico experienced stagnation or decline. In Mexico, real wages fell by 17% from 1994 to 2011, and similar trends were observed in certain U.S. industries.

  • Trade Deficits: While U.S. exports to Mexico and Canada increased, imports grew at a faster rate, leading to a widening trade deficit.

• President Clinton's 1993 prediction that NAFTA would create a million jobs within five years did not happen. The agreement's actual impact included job losses, wage stagnation, and increased trade deficits.

Byrd: On the War in Iraq

• Clinton’s 1993 Predictions - During the NAFTA signing ceremony, President Clinton stated, “I believe that NAFTA will create a million jobs in the first five years of its impact.” 

• Post-NAFTA Economic Outcomes

  • Job Losses: Contrary to the prediction, the Economic Policy Institute estimated that the U.S. lost approximately 850,000 jobs between 1993 and 2013 due to NAFTA, primarily in manufacturing sectors

  • Wage Stagnation: Real wages in the U.S. and Mexico experienced stagnation or decline. In Mexico, real wages fell by 17% from 1994 to 2011, and similar trends were observed in certain U.S. industries.

  • Trade Deficits: While U.S. exports to Mexico and Canada increased, imports grew at a faster rate, leading to a widening trade deficit.

• President Clinton's 1993 prediction that NAFTA would create a million jobs within five years did not happen. The agreement's actual impact included job losses, wage stagnation, and increased trade deficits.

•  

  • Constitutional Concerns - Byrd emphasized that the decision to go to war should rest with Congress, not the executive branch. He complained that the Senate had largely abdicated its constitutional responsibility by authorizing the use of force without debate.

  • Doctrine of Preemption -  He criticized the Bush administration's doctrine of preemptive war, arguing that attacking a nation not threatening violated international law and the United Nations Charter. Byrd warned that such a policy could set a dangerous precedent.

  • Moral and Humanitarian Concerns - Byrd expressed deep moral reservations about the war, particularly the potential for massive civilian casualties. He noted over 50% of Iraq's population was under the age of 15, highlighting the impact on innocent lives.

  • Global Perception of America - He observed that the United States' image had shifted from a peacekeeper to a nation whose actions were viewed with suspicion and mistrust.

Call for Accountability - Byrd urged for a thorough investigation into the intelligence used to justify the war, suggesting that the administration may have misrepresented facts for support. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in government actions.

Archbishop Mahoney: Called by God to Help

• Author: Cardinal Roger Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles

• Published: 2006 in The New York Times

• Purpose: To oppose a proposed federal immigration law criminalizing aid to undocumented immigrants

• Targeted Legislation: Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005 (passed the House, pending in the Senate)

• Main Argument:

  • Offering help to those in need is a moral and religious obligation

  • Laws cannot override conscience and Christian duty

• Call to Action:

  • Mahony said he would instruct priests to disobey the law if it passed

  • Urged Catholics to continue helping immigrants regardless of legal consequences

• Biblical Reference: Matthew 25:35 – “I was a stranger and you welcomed me”

• Public Reaction:

  • Supporters praised his moral leadership

  • Critics accused him of promoting illegal activity and mixing church with politics

• Broader Context: Part of Mahony’s long-standing advocacy for immigrant rights, based on Catholic social teaching

• Legacy: Highlighted the clash between immigration policy and religious freedom in the U.S.

Obama: Eulogy at Emmanuel AME Church

• President Barack Obama delivered a powerful and heartfelt eulogy honoring Reverend Clementa Pinckney, who was tragically killed in the 2015 Charleston church shooting alongside eight other church members. Obama celebrated Reverend Pinckney’s life as a man of deep faith, humility, and service — a preacher at 13, a pastor at 18, and a public servant at 23. He highlighted Pinckney’s dedication to justice, community, and empathy.

• The President reflected on the historical and spiritual significance of the black church, particularly Mother Emanuel AME Church, as a place of refuge, resistance, and dignity for African Americans. He acknowledged the long history of racial violence in America and framed the attack as part of that legacy.

• A central theme of the eulogy was grace — divine, undeserved, and transformative. Obama praised the victims’ families for their forgiveness, and urged the nation to seize this moment of grace to confront racial injustice, gun violence, and inequality. He called for an honest reckoning with America's past and present, including the removal of the Confederate flag and reforms in voting rights and the criminal justice system.

The speech concluded emotionally with Obama singing "Amazing Grace," naming each of the nine victims and affirming that they had all found grace. He urged Americans to honor their legacy by striving for justice and unity, guided by open hearts and that "reservoir of goodness" within us all.

Iranian Revolution (1979)

• The people of Iran overthrew their king (the Shah).
  A religious leader, Ayatollah Khomeini, took over.

• Iran became an Islamic Republic (religious government).

• The U.S. lost an important ally.

Iranian Hostage Crisis

• Iranian students took over the U.S. Embassy in Tehran.

• 52 Americans were held hostage for 444 days.

• Happened during President Jimmy Carter’s term.

• Hurt Carter’s popularity; hostages freed when Reagan became president.

Carter Doctrine (1980)

• President Carter said the U.S. would use force to protect the Persian Gulf (oil)

• Came after the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan.

• Made the Middle East a U.S. military priority

New Right

• A conservative political movement in the 1970s–80s.

• Wanted traditional values, lower taxes, and less government.

• Against abortion and liberal social changes

• Helped Reagan get elected

Heritage Foundation

• A conservative think tank (idea group).

• Wrote policies used by Reagan.

• Supported free markets, strong military, and traditional values.

Reaganomics

• Reagan’s economic plan in the 1980s.

• Cut taxes, especially for the rich.

• Reduced government rules for businesses.

• Increased military spending.

• The economy grew, but the national debt rose too.

Moral Majority

• A group of religious conservatives led by Jerry Falwell.

• Wanted Christian values in politics.

• Fought against abortion, gay rights, and secularism.

• Supported Reagan and other conservatives.

Vietnam Syndrome

• After the Vietnam War, Americans didn’t want more wars.

• Fear of getting stuck in another long, losing conflict.

• Reagan tried to restore pride in the U.S. military.

Lebanon Bombings

• Suicide bombers attacked U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut on October 23, 1983, killing 241 American servicemen during a peacekeeping mission

• Involved: US, Lebanon, Iran, France, Hezbollah

• US/France = peacekeepers in Lebanon

• Lebanon—civil war

• Hezbollah - a militant group that bombed barracks

• Iran-supports Hezbollah

• People - Reagan/Marines 

• First, President Reagan condemned bombings

  • refused the immediate withdrawal of US troops 

  • supported the US presence in Lebanon

  • Believed it was for good reason

• Reagan was under pressure

• Ordered troops to withdraw from Lebanon -  Feb. 1984

• He said the reason was poor security, and mission failure

• Other reasons 

  • Congressional opposition

• shows weaknesses because if you bomb US, they won’t do anything.

• shows weakness to terroist leaders.

Grenada

• Build an airport that can support Russia

  • Transport bombsThe 

• Marxist regime executed the leader

• Feast of the Hostage Crisis

• Reagan—retaliation 

  • Operation Urgent Fury 

  • Overthrow government 

  • Limit communist control

  • Success in 4 days

  • Reagan's decision 

    • Prevent soviet presence 

    • Give them practice in the country

    • Protect US citizens 

    • Reassert US strength after Vietman

  • immediate results

    • Student rescued

    • Coup overthrow 

  • Controversial 

  • UN wasn't informed

  • Regan popularity increases

  • Cold War strength

Iran-Contra Scandal (1980s)

• Secret U.S. deal during Reagan’s presidency.

• U.S. sold weapons to Iran (which was banned).
  Used the money to fund Contras (rebel group) in Nicaragua.

• Illegal and hidden from Congress.

• Hurt Reagan’s image, but he stayed popular

Mujahideen

• Muslim fighters in Afghanistan fighting the Soviet Union in the 1980s.

• U.S. gave them money and weapons to stop communism.

• Later, some of these fighters became part of groups like Taliban and al-Qaeda.

HIV/AIDS Crisis (1980s–1990s)

• Deadly disease that spread quickly, especially in gay and drug-using communities.

• Government, especially under Reagan, was slow to respond.

• Activists fought for more research and healthcare.

• Eventually led to better awareness and treatment

War on Drugs

• U.S. campaign to stop illegal drug use and sales.

• Started under Nixon, expanded by Reagan.

• Included harsh prison sentences and anti-drug ads (“Just Say No”).

Persian Gulf War (1990–1991)

• Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait.

• U.S. and allies launched Operation Desert Storm to push Iraq out

• Quick U.S. victory under President George H. W. Bush

• U.S. military confidence went up after Vietnam Syndrome

NAFTA

• Pros of NAFTA

  • Lower consumer prices

  • GDP increases

  • Increases some exports 

• Cons of NAFTA

• Loss of US manufacturing jobs

• Lowered non-college US-educated worker wages

• Mexican small farmers and small businesses are flooded with mass-produced US products

• Clinton Signs NAFTA

• Neoliberal (new liberal) reforms - beginnings of NAFTA

  • North American Free Trade Agreement

 landmark trade agreement between Canada, Mexico, and the United States that entered into force on January 1, 1994. It aimed to eliminate tariffs and other barriers to trade and investment among the three countries. NAFTA was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on July 1, 2020.

Oklahoma City Bombing (1995)

• Domestic terrorist attack in Oklahoma City

• Bomb exploded at a federal building, killing 168 people.

• Done by Timothy McVeigh, angry at the government.

• Response to events like Waco and Ruby Ridge.

• Led to more focus on domestic terrorism and security.

Contract with America (1994)

• A list of conservative promises made by Republicans.

• Led by Newt Gingrich during the 1994 midterm elections.

• Promised tax cuts, less government, and more crime control.

• Helped Republicans take control of Congress.

• Showed the strength of the conservative movement in the 1990s.

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

• Gay servicemen can serve in the military, but can tell people about it 

• Obama signs a bill that says you can be gay in the military 

NATO/Bosnia (1990s)

• After Yugoslavia broke up, Bosnia had a brutal civil war

• Involved ethnic cleansing (mass killings).

• NATO (including the U.S.) bombed Serbian forces to stop violence.

• Helped bring peace with the Dayton Accords (1995).

2000 Election Recount

• Very close election between George W. Bush and Al Gore.

• Florida’s votes were disputed, leading to a recount.

• The Supreme Court stopped the recount: Bush won.

• Raised questions about voting systems

9/11

• Terrorist attacks by al-Qaeda.

• Planes hit the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

• Almost 3,000 people died.

• Led to the War on Terror, war in Afghanistan, and new security laws (like the Patriot Act).

Civil Unions

• Legal partnerships that give same-sex couples similar rights to marriage

• Seen as a step toward gay marriage.

• Became common in early 2000s before full marriage equality in 2015.

Kyoto Protocol (1997)

• Global agreement to fight climate change.

• Countries agreed to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

• U.S. signed but never officially joined — some said it would hurt the economy

Obamacare (Affordable Care Act, 2010)

• Health care reform under President Obama

• Required people to have health insurance

• Expanded Medicaid, banned denial for pre-existing conditions.

• Highly debated — supported by Democrats, opposed by Republicans.

Tea Party (2009–2010s)

• Conservative political movement.

• Angry about big government and Obamacare.

• Wanted lower taxes and less spending.

• Helped Republicans win big in 2010 midterm elections.

Benghazi Attack (2012)

• U.S. embassy building in Libya was attacked

• 4 Americans died, including Ambassador Chris Stevens.

• Controversy over how the Obama admin, especially Hillary Clinton, handled it.

• Became a major political issue 

Panama Canal Treaty (1977)

• President Carter agreed to give control of the Panama Canal back to Panama.

• Many Americans opposed it.

• Treaty went through — full control returned to Panama in 1999.

Three Mile Island (1979)

• Worst nuclear power accident in U.S. history.

• Partial meltdown at a plant in Pennsylvania.

No deaths, but caused fear and slowed nuclear power growth.

Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988)

• Long war between Iran and Iraq.

• Brutal fighting, including chemical weapons.

• U.S. supported Iraq at times.

• No clear winner; left both countries weakened.

Willie Horton Ad (1988)

• Political ad used against Michael Dukakis (Democrat).

• Featured a Black prisoner who committed crimes on furlough.

• Helped George H. W. Bush win.

• Criticized as racist and fear-based politics

Third Way

• A political idea mixing liberal and conservative ideas.

• Used by Bill Clinton and Tony Blair (UK).

• Focused on free markets with some social safety nets.

• Example: Clinton’s welfare reform and tough-on-crime policies.

WTO/Globalization

• World Trade Organization (WTO) promotes free trade between countries.

• Globalization: Countries more connected through trade, tech, and cult

• Helped economies grow, but caused job loss in some U.S. industries

“Race to the Bottom”

• When countries lower wages, taxes, and regulations to attract businesses

• Often criticized for hurting workers, the environment, and safety standards.

Jonestown

• In South America

• In the middle of the jungle

• Isolated

• No news from the US

• News from Jim Jones through the speakers

• Some news was real, and some was fabricated

• Over 50% black

• 909 people died because of a mass suicide

• Jim Jones studied to become a licensed jeweler

• Cyanide laced with Kool-Aid

• They knew they were drinking this

• Why did they do it?

• Social/political view ranking 

  • Racial equality 

  • Progressive politics

  • Morality 

  • Religious politics

  • Morality 

  • Religious influence

  • Economic equality of opportunity 

  • Self-sufficient (local produce - food production)

  • Anti-colonization/anti-imperialism 

Old people and the poor = the church will take care of you until you die

People who work for the church can't leave

WMDs

• WMDs are powerful weapons that can kill large numbers of people quickly.

• Include: Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical weapons.

• Iraq War (2003):

  • U.S. invaded Iraq claiming Saddam Hussein had WMDs

  • No WMDs were found, leading to major controversy.

  • Hurt U.S. credibility.

Hurricane Katrina (2005)

• A massive hurricane hit New Orleans and the Gulf Coast.

• Levees broke, flooding most of the city.

• Over 1,800 people died.

• Government response (especially FEMA) was slow and unorganized.

• Many poor and Black communities were hit hardest.

• Matters:

• Showed racial and class inequalities.

• Damaged President George W. Bush’s reputation.

Guantanamo Bay (Post-2001)

• U.S. military prison in Cuba, used after 9/11.

• Held suspected terrorists without trial.

• Known for harsh treatment and torture allegations.

• Controversial: seen by some as necessary, others say it violates human rights.

• Still open today, despite efforts to close it.

• Why It Matters:

• Sparked debate about security vs. rights during the War on Terror

Occupy Wall Street (2011)

• Protest movement that began in New York City.

• Slogan: "We are the 99%" (against the richest 1%).

• Protested economic inequality, corporate power, and Wall Street greed.

• Camped out in public spaces, spread to other cities.

• No clear leader, but raised awareness of income inequality.

• Why It Matters:

• Influenced political conversations about wealth, jobs, and fairness in the economy

Carter

• First president to be born in a  hospital 

• Raised in Plains, Georgia

• Grew up poor

• Teaching Sunday school up until he died

Mohammad Reza Shah

• King of Iran from 1941 to 1979.

• Supported by the U.S. and Britain (especially after they helped him keep power in 1953).

• Tried to modernize Iran with Western ideas and reforms (called the White Revolution).

• Many Iranians thought he was a dictator and too close to the West.

• Used secret police to crush dissent (SAVAK)

• Why It Matters:

  • Overthrown in the Iranian Revolution (1979).

  • His fall ended U.S.-Iran friendship and led to an Islamic government under Ayatollah Khomeini.

  • His presence in the U.S. for medical treatment helped spark the Iranian Hostage Crisis.

Len Bias

• Top college player in 1986

•  Very well known

• Drafted by the Celtics 

• overdoses on cocaine

Ronald Reagan ("Reagan")

• President from 1981–1989 (Republican)

• Former actor and governor of California.

• Known for Reaganomics (tax cuts, less government).

• Strong anti-communist; increased military spending.

• Helped end the Cold War; famous for saying “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

• Popular with conservatives and the New Right.

Pat Robertson

• Christian televangelist and political activist

• Ran for president in 1988 as a Republican.

• Founder of the Christian Coalition, part of the Moral Majority.

• Promoted Christian values in politics (anti-abortion, traditional family).

• Influenced the rise of the religious right in U.S. politics.

George H. W. Bush

• President from 1989–1993 (Republican).

• Reagan’s vice president, then won in 1988.

• Led U.S. during the Persian Gulf War (1991) — a major success.

• Faced economic problems at home.

• Lost re-election in 1992 to Bill Clinton.

Michael Dukakis

• Democratic candidate for president in 1988.
  Governor of Massachusetts.

• Lost to George H. W. Bush

• Campaign was hurt by the Willie Horton ad and being seen as "weak on crime."

• Example of how political ads can shape public opinion.

Jerry Falwell

• Christian televangelist and political activist

• Founded the Moral Majority, promoting conservative Christian values in politics.

• Influential in the rise of the religious right during the 1980s

Rodney King

• African American man beaten by LAPD officers in 1991; incident was caught on video.

The officers' acquittal in 1992 led to the Los Angeles riots, highlighting issues of police brutality and racial injustice

Ross Perot

• Texas billionaire who ran as an independent candidate in the 1992 U.S. presidential election.

• Garnered 19% of the popular vote, the most successful third-party bid in decades.

• Focused on reducing the national debt and reforming the government

• Bill Clinton

  • 42nd U.S. President (1993–2001), Democrat.

  • Oversaw economic expansion and implemented welfare reform.

  • Impeached in 1998 over the Monica Lewinsky scandal but was acquitted by the Senate.

George W. Bush

• 43rd U.S. President (2001–2009), Republican.

• Led the country during the 9/11 attacks and initiated the War on Terror, including wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

• Faced criticism over the handling of Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 financial crisis.

Barack Obama

• 44th U.S. President (2009–2017), Democrat.

• First African American president.

• Passed the Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare") and ordered the operation that killed Osama bin Laden.

Osama bin Laden

• Founder of al-Qaeda and mastermind behind the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

• Killed in 2011 by U.S. Navy SEALs in Pakistan during a raid ordered by President Obama.

Saddam Hussein

• President of Iraq from 1979 to 2003.

• Known for his authoritarian rule and conflicts with neighboring countries.

• Captured by U.S. forces in 2003 and executed in 2006.

John McCain

• U.S. Senator from Arizona and 2008 Republican presidential nominee.

• Vietnam War veteran and former prisoner of war.

• Known for his maverick positions and bipartisan efforts.

Robert Byrd

• Democratic U.S. Senator from West Virginia, serving from 1959 to 2010.

• Held leadership positions, including Senate Majority Leader.

• Known for his deep knowledge of Senate rules and history

Colin Powell

• First African American U.S. Secretary of State (2001–2005) under President George W. Bush.

• Also served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, overseeing the Gulf War.

• Respected military leader and diplomat.

Dick Cheney

• Vice President under George W. Bush (2001–2009).

• Played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy post-9/11.

• Previously served as Secretary of Defense during the Gulf War.

• Archbishop Roger Mahony

• Archbishop of Los Angeles from 1985 to 2011.

• First native Angeleno to hold the position

• Faced criticism for his handling of clergy sexual abuse case

Samuel Huntington

• American political scientist known for his "Clash of Civilizations" theory, suggesting future conflicts would be between cultural and religious identities.

• Influential in discussions on global politics and U.S. foreign policy. 

Michael Brown

• Steals something 

• Police -  he got into an altercation with a cop and arguing

• Says he shot him

  • Led to protests

  • Obama says 

    • If you protest, don't destroy property 

    • Have to respect police

Jim Jones

• Born: May 13, 1931, in Indiana.

• Died: November 18, 1978, in Jonestown, Guyana.

• Role: American cult leader and founder of the Peoples Temple.

• Peoples Temple

• Founded: 1955 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

• Beliefs: Combined elements of Christianity with socialist and communist ideals.

• Growth: Moved to California in the 1960s; attracted a diverse following, including many African Americans.

• Practices: Promoted racial integration and social justice but became increasingly authoritarian under Jones's leadership.

• Jonestown Massacre

  • Location: Jonestown, a remote settlement in Guyana, South America.

  • Date: November 18, 1978.

  • Event: Over 900 members of the Peoples Temple died in a mass murder-suicide by ingesting a cyanide-laced beverage.

  • Trigger: The deaths followed the murder of the U.S. Congressman Leo Ryan, who was visiting Jonestown to investigate human rights abuses.

  • Aftermath: The tragedy became one of the largest mass deaths in American history and highlighted the dangers of cults and charismatic leaders.

• Why It Matters:

  • The Jonestown Massacre serves as a stark reminder of how charismatic leadership can lead to extreme and tragic outcomes.

  • It has influenced discussions on religious freedom, mental health, and the mechanisms of control within cult