The American People Face a New Century (2004-2020)

These flashcards encapsulate key vocabulary and important concepts regarding American political and economic events from 2004 to 2020.

No Child Left Behind Act

A 2002 act mandating sanctions against schools that failed to meet federal performance standards.

Hurricane Katrina

A devastating hurricane in August 2005 that flooded 80% of New Orleans and caused 1,300 deaths.

Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP)

A program authorized to buy "toxic" assets and inject cash into major banks during the 2008 financial crisis.

Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)

A health care law mandating all Americans to purchase health insurance, enacted in March 2010.

Occupy Wall Street

A movement that began in 2011 focusing on rising inequality and the concentration of wealth.

Tea Party

A movement that emerged in mid-2009 to challenge Obama's policies and push the Republican party to the right.

patient protection

Prohibits insurers from denying coverage to anyone with preexisting medical conditions under the ACA.

"Don't Ask Don't Tell" repeal

The 2010 policy change that allowed homosexuals to serve openly in the military.

Citizens United decision

A Supreme Court ruling in 2010 that lifted restrictions on political donations by corporations and unions.

"Surge" in Iraq

An increase of 20,000 additional troops to gain greater control and stability in Iraq during early 2007.

Economic Stimulus Bill

The American Relief and Recovery Act aimed at addressing the downturn in the economy with tax cuts and infrastructure spending.

Obama's Electoral Victory (2008)

Obama became the first African American president, winning with 53% of the popular vote and a significant Electoral College majority.