America's Defining Moments

Americans across four generations name the five most significant historic events in their lifetimes

Which historic events, occurring in your lifetime, do you think have had the greatest impact on our country? According to a survey conducted in 2016 by the Pew Research Center, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, was the answer given by majorities of four of America’s living generations. See below for what other major historical events (pre-COVID-19 pandemic) shaped each of the generations’ lives.

Need a quick primer on our generations? Visit this page, or here’s a shortcut: Members of the Silent Generation were born 1928-1945, Baby Boomers were born 1946-1964, Generation Xers were born 1965-1980, and Millennials were born 1981-1996.

America’s Overdose Crisis
America’s Overdose Crisis

America’s Overdose Crisis

Sign up for our five-email course explaining the overdose crisis in America, the state of treatment access, and ways to improve care

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America’s Overdose Crisis

Sign up for our five-email course explaining the overdose crisis in America, the state of treatment access, and ways to improve care

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Learn the Basics of Broadband from Our Limited Series

Sign up for our four-week email course on Broadband Basics

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How does broadband internet reach our homes, phones, and tablets? What kind of infrastructure connects us all together? What are the major barriers to broadband access for American communities?