A landmark year of upheaval and resilience
As the United States bids farewell to 2024, we take a look at the year’s defining events that have left the nation grappling with moments of triumph and tragedy.
From Donald Trump’s historic electoral victory to devastating hurricanes, natural disasters, and violent incidents, the past 12 months have been pivotal. Here’s a look at the 10 major events that shaped America in 2024.
1. Trump’s landslide re-election amid political upheaval
The 2024 presidential election culminated in Donald Trump’s sweeping victory over Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. Trump, alongside his running mate JD Vance, captured every swing state and retained his 2020 strongholds despite legal challenges and controversies. His victory marked a pivotal moment in U.S. politics, underscored by his status as the first president in history to have a mugshot.
Assassination attempts on Trump highlight heightened tensions
In a chilling reminder of the volatile political climate, Donald Trump survived two assassination attempts. On July 13, Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, injuring Trump before being neutralized by Secret Service snipers. The second attempt occurred on September 15 at Trump’s Florida golf course, where Ryan Wesley Routh was arrested before he could carry out his plan.
Devastating hurricanes: Helene and Milton
Natural disasters took a toll on the southeastern United States as Hurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc within weeks of each other. Hurricane Helene, striking in late September, caused widespread destruction and fatalities. Hurricane Milton followed soon after, devastating Florida and parts of Mexico with severe flooding and power outages.
The Epstein documents: A scandal revisited
In January, hundreds of pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein were released, reigniting public scrutiny of the late financier’s associations. The files named high-profile individuals, including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, and Michael Jackson, and revealed new details about the far-reaching connections tied to Epstein’s scandal.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ shocking arrest
Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs faced federal charges in September, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Allegations of “freak off” parties, coerced sexual acts, and drug abuse emerged during the investigation, painting a disturbing picture of exploitation. The charges mark a dramatic fall from grace for the once-celebrated artist.
The brutal murder of Laken Riley
The nation mourned the tragic death of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley, who was brutally killed by Jose Antonio Ibarra, an illegal immigrant, on February 22. Riley’s murder reignited debates on immigration policy, with Donald Trump criticizing President Biden’s border policies as enabling such crimes.
Baltimore bridge collapse: A structural tragedy
On March 26, tragedy struck Baltimore when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship. The disaster claimed six lives, leaving two survivors and exposing vulnerabilities in America’s aging infrastructure. Maryland officials have announced plans to replace the bridge by 2028.
Aaron Bushnell’s tragic death sparks global conversation
On February 26, U.S. Air Force member Aaron Bushnell set himself on fire outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., in a shocking act of protest against the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His live-streamed death drew international attention, reigniting debates over U.S. foreign policy and the ongoing conflict.
School shootings: A recurring nightmare
School shootings continued to plague the nation, with tragic incidents at Apalachee High School in Georgia and Abundant Life Christian School in Wisconsin. The shootings claimed several lives, including teachers and students, and reignited debates about gun control and mental health resources in schools.
The murder of Brian Thompson
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder on December 4 stunned the nation. Allegedly carried out by Luigi Mangione, a 26-year-old Ivy League graduate, the killing exposed frustrations with the U.S. healthcare system. Mangione’s arrest followed a manhunt, and the case has sparked widespread discourse on systemic inequities.
Reflecting on a turbulent year
As 2025 approaches, the events of 2024 serve as a stark reminder of the challenges and divisions facing the United States. From political triumphs to devastating tragedies, the year has tested the nation’s resilience while sparking critical conversations about its future.
