In 2014, significant global and national events unfolded including the Ebola epidemic, major airline disasters involving Malaysian Airlines, the rise of the Islamic State (ISIS), the conflict in Ukraine including Russia's annexation of Crimea, and widespread civil unrest such as protests in Ferguson, Missouri, and Hong Kong. In the U.S., key developments included Colorado and Washington legalizing recreational marijuana, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act taking full effect, and notable legal and social controversies. Scientific achievements also marked the year, such as India's Mars mission and the Rosetta spacecraft's successful landing on a comet.
Major Global Events
- Ebola epidemic became a global health crisis, primarily affecting West Africa with thousands of deaths.
- Disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 and the shooting down of Flight MH17 over Ukraine.
- War in Donbas and Russia's annexation of Crimea sparked major geopolitical tensions.
- ISIS declared a caliphate and expanded its militant activities significantly.
- Ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Israel influenced global diplomatic efforts.
US Highlights
- Legalization of recreational marijuana began in two states: Colorado and Washington.
- President Barack Obama introduced reforms in surveillance and imposed sanctions on Russia.
- The shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, triggered widespread protests and discussions on racial justice.
- Advances in healthcare and technology, including the Affordable Care Act's implementation and acquisitions by tech giants like Facebook and Disney.
Scientific and Cultural Milestones
- India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars orbit with its Mangalyaan mission.
- The European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission made history with the first comet landing.
- The 2014 FIFA World Cup was a global sporting highlight hosted by Brazil.
This summary highlights some of the key aspects of 2014, showcasing a year of both turmoil and notable progress worldwide.
