President John F. Kennedy’s efforts to confront the Soviet Union and address social ills are cut short by his assassination. President Lyndon B. Johnson spearheads civil rights legislation and declares a “war on poverty.”

Many Americans enjoy new material comforts and new forms of entertainment during the post-war economic boom. Yet racial gaps remain, and millions continue to live in poverty.

The Cold War and the danger of nuclear war define international affairs, especially after the Korean War. Fear of communism in the U.S. leads to accusations against innocent citizens.

The U.S. helps lead the Allies to victory in World War II, but only after dropping atomic bombs on Japan. American veterans discover new economic opportunities, but also simmering social tensions.

Germany invades neighboring countries and launches the Holocaust—the systematic killing of millions of Jews and other “non-Aryans.” The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor ushers the U.S. into World War II.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs stimulate the economy and the arts. The New Deal leaves a lasting, yet controversial mark on American government.

An economic crisis grips the nation during the Great Depression. President Herbert Hoover’s conservative response to the nation’s problems costs him many supporters.

Americans confront changes in society as women enter new roles and the mass media gains a growing audience. The Harlem Renaissance signals  the flourishing of African-American culture.

The United States seeks postwar normality and isolation. The standard of living soars amid labor unrest, immigration quotas, and the scandals of the Harding administration.

Domestic life is greatly affected as the U.S. helps the Allies achieve victory in World War I. The Treaty of Versailles punishes Germany, but is never ratified by the U.S. Senate.