Last week's top games definitely delivered some close games and impressive performances. The Steelers and the Ravens were locked in another close battle with the playoffs on the line for both. This time the Steelers came through with the win with a key stops and enough good play in the fourth quarter. Both now sit at 8-7 with a lot on the line this week. The Ravens, though, control their own fate unlike the Steelers. The Broncos fought back in the second half against the Eagles, but fell a little short at the end. Now a team that started 6-0 does not control their playoff fate heading into the last weekend. The Eagles, on the other hand, are in position for possibly the 2nd seed in the NFC along with the NFC East. A big game looms with a suddenly hot Dallas team.
Speaking of the Cowboys, they gave the Redskins their second bad loss in a row and shut them out. They have had two impressive performances and things are looking pretty good in Big D. Can they avenge last season's finale against the Eagles with a NFC East title? And on Monday Night, the Vikings' problems continued as they rallied late only to lose in overtime to the Bears on a quick strike touchdown. They have kissed the home field advantage goodbye and now with another loss will kiss a first round bye goodbye. A lot on the line this week against the Giants.
In other action, the Chargers won their tenth and row and finished the Titans off after their rally from 0-6. The once undefeated Saints dropped their second in a row with a late collapse. They sealed home field advantage, though, with the Vikings loss. The Giants fall from 5-0 is complete as they closed out their last home game in Giants Stadium with one of their worst losses. And the Colts' perfect season is over and they are mostly the ones who ended it. They had a five point lead in the third quarter and pulled their starters and watched as the backups gave the game and the perfect season away. It is tough to argue against making sure guys are healthy for the postseason, but part of me wanted them to go for it.
All and all, I went 11-5 last week and brings my total to 180-60 after sixteen weeks.
Now for Week 17:
Games of the Week:
Patriots at Texans: The Patriots have sealed their playoff destiny, but the Texans still are fighting for theirs. They are at 8-7 and are the first team on the outside looking in hoping either the Jets or Ravens or both falter this week. They also are one win away from their first winning season. If they do that, then they will still have a chance at their first postseason. The Patriots enter the playoffs this year more vulnerable than usual so expect them to use this as a warm up game along with resting players. That might make this one close to the end. Pick: Patriots
Packers at Cardinals: These two look to face off in the Wildcard round, but we will probably not get full efforts from both teams as they look to be at 100% for the postseason. I do expect them to bring a lot of effort as they don't want to enter their rematch when it really counts and not play confident or be rusty. Both have really good offenses and the Packers have been one of the hottest teams down the stretch. Pick: Packers
Eagles at Cowboys: Its the last game of the season and these two teams are matched up again. Last year, Philadelphia sent Dallas home as they routed them and eliminated them from playoff contention. This year the NFC East is on the line and a very likely rematch next week with the winner having home field. Expect some big hits and a few big plays on either offense or defense could shape the game. Both have played especially well of late. Pick: Eagles
Bengals at Jets: The last regular season game this year and the last one to be played at Giants Stadium. The Jets win and they are in. This one very likely could be played next week if the Jets were to win so it makes the game a little more interesting. The Bengals aren't at 100% and probably won't play all their regular starters. The Jets caught a break a week ago and might get another one this week. Pick: Bengals
Rest of the pack:
Colts at Bills: Probably won't see much of QB Peyton Manning and many of the other starters again this week. For that reason, the Bills have a great chance to win. Pick: Bills
Jaguars at Browns: The Jaguars need a win to possibly have a chance to make the postseason. The Browns have now won 3 straight and look fairly good. Pick: Jaguars
49ers at Rams: WR Isaac Bruce returns to St. Louis, where he spent most of his career. This might be his last game and could be the biggest reason to watch for fans of either team. Might be close as both look to finish strong and build on a win for next year. Pick: 49ers
Steelers at Dolphins: Another big game for the Steelers and the Dolphins. The Steelers won last week unlike the Dolphins and have a slightly better position if they were to win. Expect a close battle as both want to keep their postseason hopes alive if teams in front of them stumble. Pick: Steelers
Giants at Vikings: How will the Giants play now that their season is over? More importantly, how will the Vikings play knowing the #2 seed and a bye are on the line? The Vikings need a big game to build up their confidence as they enter the postseason. Pick: Vikings
Falcons at Buccaneers: The Falcons are 8-7 and need one more win to have back-to-back winning seasons. Something they have never accomplished. This is a weak enough team to aid them in that effort. Pick: Falcons
Saints at Panthers: What Saints' team will show? How many starters will play? The Saints would probably love a win to enter their bye week and the postseason, but having everyone healthy is more important. We might see a lot of HB Jonathan Stewart again this week after his performance against the Giants. Pick: Panthers
Bears at Lions: The Bears should be able to close out a disappointing season with a big win. Big as in a blowout of sorts. Pick: Bears
Ravens at Raiders: The Ravens control their own fate this week. They win, they are in the playoffs. The Raiders have surprised a few good teams this year and this is no gimme for the Ravens. But the Raiders are probably shutting it down so that will help them. Pick: Ravens
Redskins at Chargers: The tumultuous season for the Redskins will finally come to an end in San Diego. Expect some fight, but it probably won't be enough to stop the Chargers from closing out the season with their 11th straight win. Pick: Chargers
Titans at Seahawks: The Titans' HB Chris Johnson's pursuit of 2,000 rushing yards will be the main focus in this game. He also can set the all-purpose yards record as well with another big game. Pick: Titans
Chiefs at Broncos: The Broncos started 6-0 and even with a win against the Chiefs they aren't guaranteed the playoffs. Another disappointing end to a promising start looks likely. They will do everything necessary to hopefully keep themselves alive. Pick: Broncos
This is it. Which two AFC teams will get those final two spots? There are half a dozen teams all scrambling. How will other playoff teams finish? Which team gets the #2 seed and a bye in the AFC? Will Chris Johnson break 2,000 yards? All will finally be answered as the 2009 regular season ends.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 10
There are certain events that define our lifetime and are seen as events that will forever be highlighted in history books. One such event occurred the morning of September 11, 2001. It started like any other Tuesday, but by nightfall the world as we knew would be different. I remember being in gym class when my teacher first informed us of the fact that a plane had flew into the World Trade Center. The events of that morning almost a decade later are still strong in many individuals’ memories. Hence that is why it is quite obvious that no other event has shaped this decade more than the September 11th attacks.
#1: September 11th Attacks
The morning of September 11, 2001, al-Qaeda would put in motion a series of attacks on American soil; the worst since the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor nearly 60 years earlier. The terms terrorism and al-Qaeda were hardly part of anyone’s vocabulary around this time, but the events that were to occur would change that completely. Nineteen al-Qaeda terrorists boarded four airlines. Their targets: the World Trade Center towers, the Pentagon, and Washington, DC. The planes were originally headed for California and left different East Coast airports. At 8:46am, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North World Trade Center Tower. At 9:03am, the South Tower would be struck by United Airlines Flight 175. At 9:37am, American Airlines Flight 77 was flown into the Pentagon. And at 10:03am, United Airlines Flight 93 crashed near Skanksville, PA after a handful of passengers took on the hijackers and allowed for the plane to be diverted from its original target of Washington, DC and possibly a landmark like the White House or Capitol Building. At 9:59am, the South Tower fell about an hour after getting hit. At 10:28am, the North Tower fell after nearly two hours of burning. The two collapses complicated things that much more as fires broke out and the toxic materials would cover much of the large vicinity.
These series of events would create a sense of hysteria and confusion. Airports were basically put at a standstill as information was slowly coming in. At the end of the morning, the death toll was 2,995 including the nineteen hijackers with the vast majority of 2,605 coming from those in the World Trade Center Towers. This death total would rise in the weeks and months after due to complications from debris and other factors. Several New York City firefighters lost their lives as well as many police officers and medical services personnel in the city. The damages in New York City affected the area around the two towers including other parts and buildings of the World Trade Center. Beginning that night, there would be search teams on site in hopes of possibly finding any survivors. Search teams and authorities were there after the first plane hit, but they would have to monitor their space as things were unsafe in those first few hours. By the spring of 2002, the area was fully searched and has been about the same since.
Osama bin Laden was targeted as the main mastermind behind the attacks as he was viewed as the leader of the al-Qaeda forces and the Taliban in Afghanistan. Also linked strongly to the events on September 11th was Khalid Sheikh Mohammed as he was an associate of bin Laden and mastermind behind much of the planning. It was “KSM” who presented the plans for 9/11 to bin Laden in the mid to late 1990s. A few of terrorists came to the United States in 1999/2000 and they would take flight classes in preparation for their plot. Others were recruited by bin Laden in areas outside of Afghanistan and briefed on their mission. By 2001, all the men involved were on U.S. soil in various areas and their plan was taking shape. Osama bin Laden had mentioned threats toward the United States during this 5 year span, but not enough attention seemed geared at them. Tapes of bin Laden would be leaked out during the few months after September 11th. In most accounts he would try to deny his connection to the events, but on the eve of the 2004 presidential election he mentioned al-Qaeda’s involvement in the attacks. “KSM” had connections as far back at 1993 when there was also a bombing at the World Trade Center. He would be captured on March 1, 2003 in Rawalpindi, Pakistan by Pakistani officials that were working alongside the CIA. “KSM” would then be transported to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and is now at the center of hearings that U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has mentioned. He along with other terror subjects would be given a trial in New York City, which is unpopular to many. Other names linked to the attacks were Zacarias Moussaoui, Mohammed Atef, Ramzi Binalshibh, and Abu Turab al-Urduni.
The attacks would set in force the United States’ War on Terror. Shortly after, U.S. forces along with European forces would invade Afghanistan with killing the Taliban as their chief objective. At both the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, there are memorials and tributes to those lost there. In the Shanksville, PA field where the fourth plane crashed, there is also a memorial and tribute to those lives lost there. In 2002, President Bush signed the Homeland Security Act and created the Department of Homeland Security to focus on protecting our borders and fighting terrorism. The Patriot Act was also passed and meant as a way to detect and prosecute terror suspects. Additionally, as a side effect of the attacks many Muslims and Middle Eastern individuals in the United States were targeted unfairly as automatically a suspect and/or terror threat. Security increased across the United States especially in major cities and at major landmarks. Guantanamo Bay in Cuba was open and would be used as a holding facility for all terror suspects that would be potentially caught in the future.
That day continues to have everlasting feelings among everyone who recalls the day's events. With the latest moves in terms of persecuting some of the terrorists and the ongoing war in Afghanistan, what happened over 8 years ago can still be seen and felt today. Families continue to grieve and memorials have been placed or will be placed. Terrorism is still as real as it was that day with continued terrorist plots. Many in the U.S. and abroad have a new perspective that they didn't have on September 10, 2001. Many of the culprits of that have been caught, but Osama bin Laden is still somewhere in the Middle East. Thus, now as we close the decade of the 2000s, the attacks on September 11, 2001 have truly defined this decade and this century thus far. It would not be a stretch to say it is the biggest event in possibly the last 25 years.
After chronicling events, people, and everything in between, the first decade of this century gave us a lot to not be too optimistic about. The rise of terrorism, a recession, and two wars are not what one would have probably predicted ten years ago. But probably the first African American President was not expect either. After these ten years, one would hope that the next ten will be better and some of what we saw this decade will certainly carry over as the clock turns to 2010. It was quite a ride and I for one look forward to the next years and what they may bring.
#1: September 11th Attacks
The morning of September 11, 2001, al-Qaeda would put in motion a series of attacks on American soil; the worst since the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor nearly 60 years earlier. The terms terrorism and al-Qaeda were hardly part of anyone’s vocabulary around this time, but the events that were to occur would change that completely. Nineteen al-Qaeda terrorists boarded four airlines. Their targets: the World Trade Center towers, the Pentagon, and Washington, DC. The planes were originally headed for California and left different East Coast airports. At 8:46am, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North World Trade Center Tower. At 9:03am, the South Tower would be struck by United Airlines Flight 175. At 9:37am, American Airlines Flight 77 was flown into the Pentagon. And at 10:03am, United Airlines Flight 93 crashed near Skanksville, PA after a handful of passengers took on the hijackers and allowed for the plane to be diverted from its original target of Washington, DC and possibly a landmark like the White House or Capitol Building. At 9:59am, the South Tower fell about an hour after getting hit. At 10:28am, the North Tower fell after nearly two hours of burning. The two collapses complicated things that much more as fires broke out and the toxic materials would cover much of the large vicinity.
These series of events would create a sense of hysteria and confusion. Airports were basically put at a standstill as information was slowly coming in. At the end of the morning, the death toll was 2,995 including the nineteen hijackers with the vast majority of 2,605 coming from those in the World Trade Center Towers. This death total would rise in the weeks and months after due to complications from debris and other factors. Several New York City firefighters lost their lives as well as many police officers and medical services personnel in the city. The damages in New York City affected the area around the two towers including other parts and buildings of the World Trade Center. Beginning that night, there would be search teams on site in hopes of possibly finding any survivors. Search teams and authorities were there after the first plane hit, but they would have to monitor their space as things were unsafe in those first few hours. By the spring of 2002, the area was fully searched and has been about the same since.
Osama bin Laden was targeted as the main mastermind behind the attacks as he was viewed as the leader of the al-Qaeda forces and the Taliban in Afghanistan. Also linked strongly to the events on September 11th was Khalid Sheikh Mohammed as he was an associate of bin Laden and mastermind behind much of the planning. It was “KSM” who presented the plans for 9/11 to bin Laden in the mid to late 1990s. A few of terrorists came to the United States in 1999/2000 and they would take flight classes in preparation for their plot. Others were recruited by bin Laden in areas outside of Afghanistan and briefed on their mission. By 2001, all the men involved were on U.S. soil in various areas and their plan was taking shape. Osama bin Laden had mentioned threats toward the United States during this 5 year span, but not enough attention seemed geared at them. Tapes of bin Laden would be leaked out during the few months after September 11th. In most accounts he would try to deny his connection to the events, but on the eve of the 2004 presidential election he mentioned al-Qaeda’s involvement in the attacks. “KSM” had connections as far back at 1993 when there was also a bombing at the World Trade Center. He would be captured on March 1, 2003 in Rawalpindi, Pakistan by Pakistani officials that were working alongside the CIA. “KSM” would then be transported to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and is now at the center of hearings that U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has mentioned. He along with other terror subjects would be given a trial in New York City, which is unpopular to many. Other names linked to the attacks were Zacarias Moussaoui, Mohammed Atef, Ramzi Binalshibh, and Abu Turab al-Urduni.
The attacks would set in force the United States’ War on Terror. Shortly after, U.S. forces along with European forces would invade Afghanistan with killing the Taliban as their chief objective. At both the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, there are memorials and tributes to those lost there. In the Shanksville, PA field where the fourth plane crashed, there is also a memorial and tribute to those lives lost there. In 2002, President Bush signed the Homeland Security Act and created the Department of Homeland Security to focus on protecting our borders and fighting terrorism. The Patriot Act was also passed and meant as a way to detect and prosecute terror suspects. Additionally, as a side effect of the attacks many Muslims and Middle Eastern individuals in the United States were targeted unfairly as automatically a suspect and/or terror threat. Security increased across the United States especially in major cities and at major landmarks. Guantanamo Bay in Cuba was open and would be used as a holding facility for all terror suspects that would be potentially caught in the future.
That day continues to have everlasting feelings among everyone who recalls the day's events. With the latest moves in terms of persecuting some of the terrorists and the ongoing war in Afghanistan, what happened over 8 years ago can still be seen and felt today. Families continue to grieve and memorials have been placed or will be placed. Terrorism is still as real as it was that day with continued terrorist plots. Many in the U.S. and abroad have a new perspective that they didn't have on September 10, 2001. Many of the culprits of that have been caught, but Osama bin Laden is still somewhere in the Middle East. Thus, now as we close the decade of the 2000s, the attacks on September 11, 2001 have truly defined this decade and this century thus far. It would not be a stretch to say it is the biggest event in possibly the last 25 years.
After chronicling events, people, and everything in between, the first decade of this century gave us a lot to not be too optimistic about. The rise of terrorism, a recession, and two wars are not what one would have probably predicted ten years ago. But probably the first African American President was not expect either. After these ten years, one would hope that the next ten will be better and some of what we saw this decade will certainly carry over as the clock turns to 2010. It was quite a ride and I for one look forward to the next years and what they may bring.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Week 17 NFL Power Rankings
The final week is upon us. The Colts chose rest over history and ended their perfect season, but still are number 1. The Chargers continued to win while the Saints lost their second in a row and swap spots. The Eagles won and the Vikings didn't so they swapped spots. Divisions and playoff spots are at stake this week and we could see some more moves in the middle of the rankings again.
2009 Power Rankings (going into Week 17):
1.(1) Colts (14-1): They chose rest over history. They now must go all the way.
2.(3) Chargers (12-3): The way they are playing right now makes many think this could be their year.
3.(2) Saints (13-2): A couple tough losses are aided by the fact they clinched home field with the Vikings losing.
4.(5) Eagles (11-4): Their winning coupled with the Vikings' losing opens the door for them to get the second seed in the NFC along with the NFC East.
5.(4) Vikings (11-4): They are starting to show signs of weakness. They must play like a desperate team this week to head into the playoffs really confident.
6.(6) Cowboys (10-5): They are starting to show signs that might be able to erase the past of December misery and even playoff defeat along with winning the NFC East.
7.(8) Packers (10-5): A strong response after a tough loss and now can finish strong against a possible playoff foe.
8.(7) Patriots (10-5): They can control who might make the wildcard round in the AFC with a win or loss.
9.(9) Bengals (10-5): They might rest starters and give Jets another break.
10.(10) Cardinals (10-5): They probably won't play hard this week and hope they can catch fire again in the playoffs.
11.(15) Steelers (8-7): They shot themselves in the foot over the course of a few weeks, but now could still make the playoffs with their late push.
12.(11) Ravens (8-7): They stumbled a bit last week, but still look very good.
13.(19) Jets (8-7): They received a big gift from the Colts and now only need to beat the Bengals, who might not play many starters, to make the postseason.
14.(13) Broncos (8-7): They went from 6-0 to wildcard team to possibly out of the playoffs in a span of two months.
15.(20) Texans (8-7): They need one win to possibly make the postseason and it would also give them their first winning season.
16.(16) Falcons (8-7): Since they were eliminated from playoff contention, they have focused on getting at least 9 wins. Can do it this week.
17.(12) Giants (8-7): They didn't show up in their last game at Giants Stadium and now are playing for pride this week.
18.(14) Titans (7-8): They gave a strong effort in coming back from 0-6, but are going to come up short.
19.(17) Dolphins (7-8): The loss last week put them in a tough spot this week to make the postseason.
20.(21) Panthers (7-8): The way they are ending the season gives them a lot of confidence to contend again next year.
21.(18) Jaguars (7-8): Another disappointing season closes with a game against the Browns.
22.(22) 49ers (7-8): WR Isaac Bruce might retire and this could be his last game. It's fitting it is going to be played in St. Louis.
23.(24) Bears (6-9): A tough season, but a big win over a rival and QB Brett Favre.
24.(23) Raiders (5-10): Just when they look to be turning the corner, they trip over their feet.
25.(25) Bills (5-10): Another blowout loss has many wondering if this team can turn it around any time soon.
26.(26) Seahawks (5-10): They have suffered two big losses back to back. They have many questions regarding this once prominent team this off season.
27.(27) Browns (4-11): This team is playing very good and ending their season on a very high note moving towards next season.
28.(28) Redskins (4-11): Another troubling loss. Blew out one week and shut out the next.
29.(30) Buccaneers (3-12): They can now say they gave the Saints one of their losses in 2009.
30.(29) Chiefs (3-12): Offensive changes might need to be made this off season. HB Jamaal Charles is the running back of the future and now for this team though.
30.(31) Lions (2-13): They are barely edging the Rams for the worst team.
32.(32) Rams (1-14): Another loss and they can put themselves on the clock and get ready for next year.
A big playoff-esc weekend awaits as the NFC's 2nd seed and the NFC East are on the line. While in the AFC, several teams are fighting for two wildcard spots. How will the Colts attack this "meaningless" game? Sure to be a great weekend.
2009 Power Rankings (going into Week 17):
1.(1) Colts (14-1): They chose rest over history. They now must go all the way.
2.(3) Chargers (12-3): The way they are playing right now makes many think this could be their year.
3.(2) Saints (13-2): A couple tough losses are aided by the fact they clinched home field with the Vikings losing.
4.(5) Eagles (11-4): Their winning coupled with the Vikings' losing opens the door for them to get the second seed in the NFC along with the NFC East.
5.(4) Vikings (11-4): They are starting to show signs of weakness. They must play like a desperate team this week to head into the playoffs really confident.
6.(6) Cowboys (10-5): They are starting to show signs that might be able to erase the past of December misery and even playoff defeat along with winning the NFC East.
7.(8) Packers (10-5): A strong response after a tough loss and now can finish strong against a possible playoff foe.
8.(7) Patriots (10-5): They can control who might make the wildcard round in the AFC with a win or loss.
9.(9) Bengals (10-5): They might rest starters and give Jets another break.
10.(10) Cardinals (10-5): They probably won't play hard this week and hope they can catch fire again in the playoffs.
11.(15) Steelers (8-7): They shot themselves in the foot over the course of a few weeks, but now could still make the playoffs with their late push.
12.(11) Ravens (8-7): They stumbled a bit last week, but still look very good.
13.(19) Jets (8-7): They received a big gift from the Colts and now only need to beat the Bengals, who might not play many starters, to make the postseason.
14.(13) Broncos (8-7): They went from 6-0 to wildcard team to possibly out of the playoffs in a span of two months.
15.(20) Texans (8-7): They need one win to possibly make the postseason and it would also give them their first winning season.
16.(16) Falcons (8-7): Since they were eliminated from playoff contention, they have focused on getting at least 9 wins. Can do it this week.
17.(12) Giants (8-7): They didn't show up in their last game at Giants Stadium and now are playing for pride this week.
18.(14) Titans (7-8): They gave a strong effort in coming back from 0-6, but are going to come up short.
19.(17) Dolphins (7-8): The loss last week put them in a tough spot this week to make the postseason.
20.(21) Panthers (7-8): The way they are ending the season gives them a lot of confidence to contend again next year.
21.(18) Jaguars (7-8): Another disappointing season closes with a game against the Browns.
22.(22) 49ers (7-8): WR Isaac Bruce might retire and this could be his last game. It's fitting it is going to be played in St. Louis.
23.(24) Bears (6-9): A tough season, but a big win over a rival and QB Brett Favre.
24.(23) Raiders (5-10): Just when they look to be turning the corner, they trip over their feet.
25.(25) Bills (5-10): Another blowout loss has many wondering if this team can turn it around any time soon.
26.(26) Seahawks (5-10): They have suffered two big losses back to back. They have many questions regarding this once prominent team this off season.
27.(27) Browns (4-11): This team is playing very good and ending their season on a very high note moving towards next season.
28.(28) Redskins (4-11): Another troubling loss. Blew out one week and shut out the next.
29.(30) Buccaneers (3-12): They can now say they gave the Saints one of their losses in 2009.
30.(29) Chiefs (3-12): Offensive changes might need to be made this off season. HB Jamaal Charles is the running back of the future and now for this team though.
30.(31) Lions (2-13): They are barely edging the Rams for the worst team.
32.(32) Rams (1-14): Another loss and they can put themselves on the clock and get ready for next year.
A big playoff-esc weekend awaits as the NFC's 2nd seed and the NFC East are on the line. While in the AFC, several teams are fighting for two wildcard spots. How will the Colts attack this "meaningless" game? Sure to be a great weekend.
I Love the 2000s...Part 9
It what was one of the most anticipated elections and election cycles in some time; the results and the process certainly gave us probably more than we thought we would see. The Democrats had a serious African American candidate as well as a very legit female candidate amongst their field. The Republicans had a deep field of candidates early on as the party had to choose a replacement to President Bush. The twists and turns and end result was definitely one of the biggest events of the decade.
#2: 2008 Presidential Election
Entering 2008, President Bush was in his last year in office and his policies and political actions along with a sense of a new direction were all key talking points of the campaigns and upcoming election. Domestic policies especially the economy became the major focal point of platforms. President Bush and the Republican Party skated by in 2004 and by 2008; they had lost both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives to the Democrats. After having a high of around 90% approval rating around the time of 9/11; a high favorability and approval ratings would continue to fall through the decade due to an unpopular war in Iraq and other disliked decisions.
As 2008 neared, several candidates began to emerge as possible individuals to replace President Bush. On the Democratic side, the field included Senator Barack Obama, Senator Hillary Clinton, former Senator John Edwards, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, Senator Joe Biden, Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Senator Chris Dodd, Senator Evan Bayh, former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack, and former Senator Mike Gravel. Senators Obama and Clinton emerged as the most viable and popular candidates with Edwards in the shuffle. Former Vice President Al Gore and the Democratic candidate, John Kerry, of 2004 were also rumored to be potential candidates for the party’s nomination. Going into 2008, it seemed that Hillary Clinton had emerged with a slight lead.
Iowa proved to be a crucial caucus as Obama won, but New Hampshire a week later was a Clinton victory and would set the trend for much of the Democratic primaries. Candidates would slowly drop out after early primary losses. Florida and Michigan; wanting to gain more national attention; moved their primaries up and thus created a lengthy drawn out process for their delegates and the results of which. Both were victories for Clinton and would prove very important down the stretch. Obama’s victory was a bit of a surprise to some, especially those in the Clinton camp who were hoping to wrap up the nomination around the same time that John Kerry did four years early. As Super Tuesday neared, John Edwards saw his candidacy slipping away and thus suspended his campaign leaving Obama and Clinton to battle it out. On February 5, 2008 or Super Tuesday, 23 states held primaries with both Democratic candidates ending the evening in a virtual tie. Obama won more states, but Clinton won bigger states like California and New York.
Following Super Tuesday, Obama would win the next ten primaries that included various states including a “Beltway Sweep” that included Washington, DC. Clinton countered in early March with primary victories in Ohio and Texas with Obama winning the Texas caucus. The next month in another big primary; Pennsylvania; Clinton fired back with another big win. Obama had more delegates, but Clinton had a slight superdelegate lead. In early May, the two would split the next two primaries; Clinton winning Indiana and Obama winning North Carolina. At the end of May, the Florida and Michigan delegate questions were solved with a resolution that each delegate would be seated at the convention with only a half vote. After the final primary on June 3rd, Obama had almost enough delegates to win the party’s nomination and several superdelegates switched from Clinton to Obama and that finally put him over the edge. He was the first African American major party candidate. Clinton held out hope for a few days before finally conceding and endorsing Obama on June 7th. The two gave us one of the most spirited primary battles ever.
On the Republican side, things did not draw out as long, but certainly had a fair share of moments. With President Bush not running due to term limits and Vice President Cheney not running per his own choice; the Republican field was very open with Senator John McCain and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney emerging as leading candidates. Also contending were former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, former Mayor of New York Rudy Giuliani, Congressman Ron Paul, and former U.S. Senator Fred Thompson. In Iowa, Huckabee launched himself into a great position with a big caucus victory, but that victory would be first and last major one as he put a lot of resources into Iowa. McCain finished well and would use the rest of the month to position himself for a run at the nomination. Giuliani put his fortunes in Florida and when McCain won the primary there it deflated Giuliani’s campaign greatly and he would soon concede his run. On Super Tuesday for the Republicans, it was equally as down the middle as the Democratic side with McCain getting the most states and delegates with Romney and Huckabee get a fair share of the states and delegates. Not garnering enough states and delegates made Romney choose to step aside. He wanted to ensure that the Republicans could gain a nominee before the Democrats and target the opposition party instead of each other.
Moving forward into March, McCain was emerging as the lead candidate with Huckabee and Paul as the only opposition. McCain picked up several primary victories with Huckabee getting a couple wins after Super Tuesday. McCain won the four primaries in March including Texas and Ohio to secure the nomination. Huckabee would concede with Paul hanging on despite having no chance of winning the nomination.
The Democrats would hold their party convention in Denver, Colorado from August 25th to August 28th while the Republicans would gather for their convention in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota from September 1st to September 4th. After much discussion and deliberation of what would happen, Senator Obama was officially nominated as the candidate of the Democratic Party for President and he would choose Senator Biden as his running mate. On the Republican side, there wasn’t so much speculation as Senator McCain was nominated as expected to be the candidate of the Republican Party and in a surprise move by many he selected Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska to be his running mate.
As the campaign became party versus party during the summer and into the fall, Obama would link McCain to Bush and his policies and thus his unpopularity. Additionally, a lot of the campaign revolved around change and the type of change Obama would bring versus the experience of McCain that had proved costly in the years leading up to the 2008 election. McCain would garner his experience as a characteristic worth voting for him over Obama, but at the election neared he would then try to use his maverick style of voting and leading as a way to constitute his version of change that he would bring. During the primaries, Obama was seen as the “change” candidate against the “establishment” candidate in Clinton. McCain’s running mate, Palin, was also a new face on the national stage and was not very tested. She was a bit of change and a possible face for former Clinton supporters (mostly women) to look to. However, Palin did not seem to grasp certain issues that would be crucial as the second in command. The top issue for the election revolved around the growing recession and the current state of the economy. McCain made a couple tactical errors that distanced him from the common man struggling and even used the economy as a political chip to stall debates so that Senator Obama and himself could return to the Senate to work on a bailout bill.
After months of primaries, speeches, debates, and mudslinging; Barack Obama defeated John McCain to become the 44th President of the United States. Obama was able to change 9 states to blue that were red in 2004 and gave Obama a large victory within the Electoral College. In the end, Obama picked up 365 electoral votes to McCain’s 173. With the victory, Obama became the first African American to be elected President. Making this election a little more unique was the fact that Obama became only the third sitting U.S. Senator after Warren Harding and John F. Kennedy to be elected and 2008 was the first election since 1952 to not feature an incumbent president or vice president running. Lastly, it was the second time and first for the Republican Party that there was a female Vice Presidential candidate. Voter turnout was the highest since the late 1960s as a large young crowd and many previous non-voters turned out as both candidates especially Obama’s mobilized the masses. Obama’s campaign tapped into reaching out to all states and getting many non-voters and occasional voters to become passionate about the upcoming election. His campaign team put together one of the most overreaching and effective campaigns we have probably seen. Not to outdone, several other candidates utilized the pluses of campaigning in the 21st century: the internet. Videos and websites allowed extra avenues for the candidates more than ever.
Moving forward, in future elections the use of grassroots movements and mobilizing voters will be key especially in 2010 as both parties will wrestle for control in the wake of this historic election. Obama was able to key into minorities, young people, and independents; three voting blocs that are the ultimate variable in an election. More of each group registered and voted in 2008 and that also adds to the importance of the 2008 presidential election. As someone who is part of one of those groups (the young demographic); this election was probably the first that I was completely engaged in. I campaigned, voted, and followed proceedings closely from Iowa to Election Day. I remember taking to the streets as a sense of a new beginning had just occurred and I walked around my campus and the proceeding area into the late night. There are few moments that have defined by generation and this certainly will be one of them. Obama was able to change several states from Republican to Democrat while many of the polarizing trends continued in terms of voting demographics for party candidates.
Without a doubt, this event will stand the test of time as a groundbreaking event and certainly was one of the most eventful stories of the 2000s. However, despite the impact that election left; there was still one event that ranks higher and will probably be remembered for as long if not longer than this historic election. That event and story: September 11th, 2001.
#2: 2008 Presidential Election
Entering 2008, President Bush was in his last year in office and his policies and political actions along with a sense of a new direction were all key talking points of the campaigns and upcoming election. Domestic policies especially the economy became the major focal point of platforms. President Bush and the Republican Party skated by in 2004 and by 2008; they had lost both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives to the Democrats. After having a high of around 90% approval rating around the time of 9/11; a high favorability and approval ratings would continue to fall through the decade due to an unpopular war in Iraq and other disliked decisions.
As 2008 neared, several candidates began to emerge as possible individuals to replace President Bush. On the Democratic side, the field included Senator Barack Obama, Senator Hillary Clinton, former Senator John Edwards, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, Senator Joe Biden, Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Senator Chris Dodd, Senator Evan Bayh, former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack, and former Senator Mike Gravel. Senators Obama and Clinton emerged as the most viable and popular candidates with Edwards in the shuffle. Former Vice President Al Gore and the Democratic candidate, John Kerry, of 2004 were also rumored to be potential candidates for the party’s nomination. Going into 2008, it seemed that Hillary Clinton had emerged with a slight lead.
Iowa proved to be a crucial caucus as Obama won, but New Hampshire a week later was a Clinton victory and would set the trend for much of the Democratic primaries. Candidates would slowly drop out after early primary losses. Florida and Michigan; wanting to gain more national attention; moved their primaries up and thus created a lengthy drawn out process for their delegates and the results of which. Both were victories for Clinton and would prove very important down the stretch. Obama’s victory was a bit of a surprise to some, especially those in the Clinton camp who were hoping to wrap up the nomination around the same time that John Kerry did four years early. As Super Tuesday neared, John Edwards saw his candidacy slipping away and thus suspended his campaign leaving Obama and Clinton to battle it out. On February 5, 2008 or Super Tuesday, 23 states held primaries with both Democratic candidates ending the evening in a virtual tie. Obama won more states, but Clinton won bigger states like California and New York.
Following Super Tuesday, Obama would win the next ten primaries that included various states including a “Beltway Sweep” that included Washington, DC. Clinton countered in early March with primary victories in Ohio and Texas with Obama winning the Texas caucus. The next month in another big primary; Pennsylvania; Clinton fired back with another big win. Obama had more delegates, but Clinton had a slight superdelegate lead. In early May, the two would split the next two primaries; Clinton winning Indiana and Obama winning North Carolina. At the end of May, the Florida and Michigan delegate questions were solved with a resolution that each delegate would be seated at the convention with only a half vote. After the final primary on June 3rd, Obama had almost enough delegates to win the party’s nomination and several superdelegates switched from Clinton to Obama and that finally put him over the edge. He was the first African American major party candidate. Clinton held out hope for a few days before finally conceding and endorsing Obama on June 7th. The two gave us one of the most spirited primary battles ever.
On the Republican side, things did not draw out as long, but certainly had a fair share of moments. With President Bush not running due to term limits and Vice President Cheney not running per his own choice; the Republican field was very open with Senator John McCain and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney emerging as leading candidates. Also contending were former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, former Mayor of New York Rudy Giuliani, Congressman Ron Paul, and former U.S. Senator Fred Thompson. In Iowa, Huckabee launched himself into a great position with a big caucus victory, but that victory would be first and last major one as he put a lot of resources into Iowa. McCain finished well and would use the rest of the month to position himself for a run at the nomination. Giuliani put his fortunes in Florida and when McCain won the primary there it deflated Giuliani’s campaign greatly and he would soon concede his run. On Super Tuesday for the Republicans, it was equally as down the middle as the Democratic side with McCain getting the most states and delegates with Romney and Huckabee get a fair share of the states and delegates. Not garnering enough states and delegates made Romney choose to step aside. He wanted to ensure that the Republicans could gain a nominee before the Democrats and target the opposition party instead of each other.
Moving forward into March, McCain was emerging as the lead candidate with Huckabee and Paul as the only opposition. McCain picked up several primary victories with Huckabee getting a couple wins after Super Tuesday. McCain won the four primaries in March including Texas and Ohio to secure the nomination. Huckabee would concede with Paul hanging on despite having no chance of winning the nomination.
The Democrats would hold their party convention in Denver, Colorado from August 25th to August 28th while the Republicans would gather for their convention in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota from September 1st to September 4th. After much discussion and deliberation of what would happen, Senator Obama was officially nominated as the candidate of the Democratic Party for President and he would choose Senator Biden as his running mate. On the Republican side, there wasn’t so much speculation as Senator McCain was nominated as expected to be the candidate of the Republican Party and in a surprise move by many he selected Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska to be his running mate.
As the campaign became party versus party during the summer and into the fall, Obama would link McCain to Bush and his policies and thus his unpopularity. Additionally, a lot of the campaign revolved around change and the type of change Obama would bring versus the experience of McCain that had proved costly in the years leading up to the 2008 election. McCain would garner his experience as a characteristic worth voting for him over Obama, but at the election neared he would then try to use his maverick style of voting and leading as a way to constitute his version of change that he would bring. During the primaries, Obama was seen as the “change” candidate against the “establishment” candidate in Clinton. McCain’s running mate, Palin, was also a new face on the national stage and was not very tested. She was a bit of change and a possible face for former Clinton supporters (mostly women) to look to. However, Palin did not seem to grasp certain issues that would be crucial as the second in command. The top issue for the election revolved around the growing recession and the current state of the economy. McCain made a couple tactical errors that distanced him from the common man struggling and even used the economy as a political chip to stall debates so that Senator Obama and himself could return to the Senate to work on a bailout bill.
After months of primaries, speeches, debates, and mudslinging; Barack Obama defeated John McCain to become the 44th President of the United States. Obama was able to change 9 states to blue that were red in 2004 and gave Obama a large victory within the Electoral College. In the end, Obama picked up 365 electoral votes to McCain’s 173. With the victory, Obama became the first African American to be elected President. Making this election a little more unique was the fact that Obama became only the third sitting U.S. Senator after Warren Harding and John F. Kennedy to be elected and 2008 was the first election since 1952 to not feature an incumbent president or vice president running. Lastly, it was the second time and first for the Republican Party that there was a female Vice Presidential candidate. Voter turnout was the highest since the late 1960s as a large young crowd and many previous non-voters turned out as both candidates especially Obama’s mobilized the masses. Obama’s campaign tapped into reaching out to all states and getting many non-voters and occasional voters to become passionate about the upcoming election. His campaign team put together one of the most overreaching and effective campaigns we have probably seen. Not to outdone, several other candidates utilized the pluses of campaigning in the 21st century: the internet. Videos and websites allowed extra avenues for the candidates more than ever.
Moving forward, in future elections the use of grassroots movements and mobilizing voters will be key especially in 2010 as both parties will wrestle for control in the wake of this historic election. Obama was able to key into minorities, young people, and independents; three voting blocs that are the ultimate variable in an election. More of each group registered and voted in 2008 and that also adds to the importance of the 2008 presidential election. As someone who is part of one of those groups (the young demographic); this election was probably the first that I was completely engaged in. I campaigned, voted, and followed proceedings closely from Iowa to Election Day. I remember taking to the streets as a sense of a new beginning had just occurred and I walked around my campus and the proceeding area into the late night. There are few moments that have defined by generation and this certainly will be one of them. Obama was able to change several states from Republican to Democrat while many of the polarizing trends continued in terms of voting demographics for party candidates.
Without a doubt, this event will stand the test of time as a groundbreaking event and certainly was one of the most eventful stories of the 2000s. However, despite the impact that election left; there was still one event that ranks higher and will probably be remembered for as long if not longer than this historic election. That event and story: September 11th, 2001.
Monday, December 28, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 8
There have been trying times throughout our history and near the end of the 2000s, economically we entered one of the toughest times ever. The crisis has still continued to this day and could be another year before the burden of it starts to decrease.
#3 Great Recession/Economic Crisis
Since the end of 2007 until now and tomorrow, a recession has affected the United States as well as several countries in the world. The financial crisis that we are in the midst of has been compared at times to the Great Depression and some refer to it as “the Great Recession”. The recession was triggered by mistakes and irresponsibility in the banking system. This trigger would lead to the collapse of financial institutions, the stock market struggling, and bailouts to aid banks. This trickled down beyond jobs and the economy as mortgages and the housing market was also terribly affected. Key businesses bottomed up and economic spending and activity declined. Economies worldwide would feel some of these same problems and credit tightened up as trade declined as well. In response, money that in reality wasn’t really there had to be spent in terms of a stimulus and bailouts for companies in order to prevent even more problems to occur.
About a year before the crisis began to break out, the housing bubble was reaching its peak and there were high default rates on adjustable rate and subprime mortgages increasing. Once interest rates began to increase and housing prices decreased during 2006-2007; refinancing became a struggle. Defaults and foreclosures were becoming more common. The low interest rates were a facilitator for the problem as it created easier conditions to invest in housing with low credit rates. This combination of easy credit alongside an inflow of money created the housing bubble. As housing prices were down, the major global financial institutions that had borrowed and invested a lot reported significant losses. These institutions as well as certain banks then had to deal with debt burdens on top of loans without a financial cushion intact. This affected the ability of financial institutions to lend money and thus activity slowed down. Key financial institutions insisted that banks provide funds to encourage lending and restore a sense of normalcy. Additionally, to counteract some of the downward swing, there would be government assistance. U.S housing prices had decreased by 20% by September 2008 from where they were two years earlier and around the same time 9.2% of all U.S. mortgages were in foreclosure or delinquent. That number increased to 14.4% this past September. Major U.S. investment banks and government sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac then played a crucial role in the expansion of higher-risk lending. Some researchers and economists can trace these two to the root of the crisis and problem we are in the midst of now.
The crisis, though, would go beyond those companies and the mortgage area. U.S. and European banks from the beginning of 2007 to a few months ago had lost over $1 trillion from bad loans off of toxic assets. And this number is expected to continue to go up. Besides Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae being affected; Lehman Brothers, Merrill Lynch, AIG, Wachovia, Bank of America, and Washington Mutual were also seeing a lot of red and losses. It would be in the fall of 2008 that thinks truly hit the toughest stretch. The withdrawal from money markets was $144.5 billion one week compared to the prior week only having $7.1 billion. That big difference interrupted the possibility of corporations to replace their short-term debt. In response, the U.S. government extended insurance for money market accounts with temporary guarantees. This was shortly followed by the Treasury Secretary, Henry Paulson, holding a meeting with the Chair of the Fed, Ben Bernanke, in order to discuss a bailout that would total $700 billion. This was seen as the only solution to avoid a total economic and financial collapse. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act was signed into a law on October 3, 2008. This act would implement Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP).
This financial crisis started to become more global than just domestic. European bank failed, declines in various stock indexes, and large reductions in the market value of equities and commodities all occurred. With problems outside the U.S. in many areas, there was fear of a global economic collapse. One study released mid-2009 confirmed that the U.S. economy had spent and borrowed too much during the decade and the rest of the world was dependent upon the U.S. as a major consumer for the global demand. The economic crisis subsequently affected the U.S.’s contribution. Real gross domestic product (the output of goods and services produced) decreased at a rate of close to 6% at the end of 2008 and beginning of 2009. By October 2009, the U.S. unemployment rate increased to 10.2%; the worse in almost thirty years.
To respond to all these problems, the U.S. has carried through on two stimulus packages that have totaled close to $1 trillion during 2008 and 2009. These large fiscal stimulus packages work by borrowing and spending to offset the reduction in private sector demand. Additionally, President Obama along with key advisers introduced a series of regulatory proposals in June 2009. Amongst the proposals were consumer protection, executive pay, bank financial cushions, and expanded regulation of the shadow-banking system and derivatives.
It has been about two years since the crisis's beginnings occurred and it is hard to tell how long things will continue to be bad. Unemployment has not changed too much yet according to some reports jobs and the economy seemed to be poised to have some positive results in early 2010. However, it could take close to two years before we truly see big change and a positive turn. Bailouts and stimulus packages; despite the controversies; were necessary and are beginning to show their importance and I believe that in the next 2-5 years people will see their impact. Without a doubt, though, this was certainly a major event that shaped the 2000s.
Now what can outrank a near financial fallout and the crisis that ensued; well a historic election that took the national landscape by storm in 2008.
#3 Great Recession/Economic Crisis
Since the end of 2007 until now and tomorrow, a recession has affected the United States as well as several countries in the world. The financial crisis that we are in the midst of has been compared at times to the Great Depression and some refer to it as “the Great Recession”. The recession was triggered by mistakes and irresponsibility in the banking system. This trigger would lead to the collapse of financial institutions, the stock market struggling, and bailouts to aid banks. This trickled down beyond jobs and the economy as mortgages and the housing market was also terribly affected. Key businesses bottomed up and economic spending and activity declined. Economies worldwide would feel some of these same problems and credit tightened up as trade declined as well. In response, money that in reality wasn’t really there had to be spent in terms of a stimulus and bailouts for companies in order to prevent even more problems to occur.
About a year before the crisis began to break out, the housing bubble was reaching its peak and there were high default rates on adjustable rate and subprime mortgages increasing. Once interest rates began to increase and housing prices decreased during 2006-2007; refinancing became a struggle. Defaults and foreclosures were becoming more common. The low interest rates were a facilitator for the problem as it created easier conditions to invest in housing with low credit rates. This combination of easy credit alongside an inflow of money created the housing bubble. As housing prices were down, the major global financial institutions that had borrowed and invested a lot reported significant losses. These institutions as well as certain banks then had to deal with debt burdens on top of loans without a financial cushion intact. This affected the ability of financial institutions to lend money and thus activity slowed down. Key financial institutions insisted that banks provide funds to encourage lending and restore a sense of normalcy. Additionally, to counteract some of the downward swing, there would be government assistance. U.S housing prices had decreased by 20% by September 2008 from where they were two years earlier and around the same time 9.2% of all U.S. mortgages were in foreclosure or delinquent. That number increased to 14.4% this past September. Major U.S. investment banks and government sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac then played a crucial role in the expansion of higher-risk lending. Some researchers and economists can trace these two to the root of the crisis and problem we are in the midst of now.
The crisis, though, would go beyond those companies and the mortgage area. U.S. and European banks from the beginning of 2007 to a few months ago had lost over $1 trillion from bad loans off of toxic assets. And this number is expected to continue to go up. Besides Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae being affected; Lehman Brothers, Merrill Lynch, AIG, Wachovia, Bank of America, and Washington Mutual were also seeing a lot of red and losses. It would be in the fall of 2008 that thinks truly hit the toughest stretch. The withdrawal from money markets was $144.5 billion one week compared to the prior week only having $7.1 billion. That big difference interrupted the possibility of corporations to replace their short-term debt. In response, the U.S. government extended insurance for money market accounts with temporary guarantees. This was shortly followed by the Treasury Secretary, Henry Paulson, holding a meeting with the Chair of the Fed, Ben Bernanke, in order to discuss a bailout that would total $700 billion. This was seen as the only solution to avoid a total economic and financial collapse. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act was signed into a law on October 3, 2008. This act would implement Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP).
This financial crisis started to become more global than just domestic. European bank failed, declines in various stock indexes, and large reductions in the market value of equities and commodities all occurred. With problems outside the U.S. in many areas, there was fear of a global economic collapse. One study released mid-2009 confirmed that the U.S. economy had spent and borrowed too much during the decade and the rest of the world was dependent upon the U.S. as a major consumer for the global demand. The economic crisis subsequently affected the U.S.’s contribution. Real gross domestic product (the output of goods and services produced) decreased at a rate of close to 6% at the end of 2008 and beginning of 2009. By October 2009, the U.S. unemployment rate increased to 10.2%; the worse in almost thirty years.
To respond to all these problems, the U.S. has carried through on two stimulus packages that have totaled close to $1 trillion during 2008 and 2009. These large fiscal stimulus packages work by borrowing and spending to offset the reduction in private sector demand. Additionally, President Obama along with key advisers introduced a series of regulatory proposals in June 2009. Amongst the proposals were consumer protection, executive pay, bank financial cushions, and expanded regulation of the shadow-banking system and derivatives.
It has been about two years since the crisis's beginnings occurred and it is hard to tell how long things will continue to be bad. Unemployment has not changed too much yet according to some reports jobs and the economy seemed to be poised to have some positive results in early 2010. However, it could take close to two years before we truly see big change and a positive turn. Bailouts and stimulus packages; despite the controversies; were necessary and are beginning to show their importance and I believe that in the next 2-5 years people will see their impact. Without a doubt, though, this was certainly a major event that shaped the 2000s.
Now what can outrank a near financial fallout and the crisis that ensued; well a historic election that took the national landscape by storm in 2008.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 7
Now that we move into the top 5 event of the decade, we start off with something that is still going on: the Afghanistan War. It began shortly after 9/11 and has been dormant in the headlines for much of the decade, but has returned to the forefront the last year or two. And for this entry, the fourth event: the Iraq War will also be included. Two major wars; both are worthy of individual spots on this list. One was brought on by the actions of 9/11 and the other was possibly linked to it with misguided information.
#5: Afghanistan War
On October 7, 2001, U.S.’s Operation Enduring Freedom was launched in Afghanistan in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11th. Alongside the U.S., England has had their share of troops in the country under their operation, Operation Herrick. Both countries entered with the objective to quarantine Al Qaeda and the Taliban and its supporters. This invasion was the first phase and involved the U.S. and their forces working along with the Afghan opposition forces of the Northern Alliance to rid the country of the Taliban. The underlining purpose was more than just the terrorists group but the mastermind of 9/11; Osama bin Laden and his associates. At the end of 2001, the second operation would begin with the forces looking to secure Kabul and its surrounding areas. As the war began to take shape, NATO forces were especially important in carrying out the manpower necessary to fulfill their goals. Early on, the air campaigns were crucial as getting to Kabul and maintaining it under the unified front was especially important.
The first true test and major battle was the Battle of Mazar-i Sharif on November 9, 2001. It was the home of two airfields and also was crucial to protection a border to Uzbekistan and thus keeping the Taliban and Al Qaeda from escaping there. It was a victorious effort for the Northern Alliance. Three days later, the Taliban forces left the city of Kabul and by the next day the Northern Alliance had control of the city. This victory was a major factor in the collapse Taliban strongholds. It would be at this early point that Pakistan became a target for Al Qaeda and the Taliban to regroup and create a safe harbor. At the end of November, the Northern Alliance along with the U.S. and NATO forces targeted Kandahar, which was the birthplace of the Taliban. By early December the Taliban were all but cornered and seemed to be in the works of surrendering, but they quickly changed course and left and avoided capture and being a complete loser in the battle between them and the Northern Alliance and U.S./NATO forces. Tora Bora was also targeted at this time and similarly the Taliban avoided a complete loss despite their lack of success against the forces moving through the region. It might have been a tactic by the Taliban to also enable Osama bin Laden and others more time to escape capture.
Things began to falter a bit after a year or so as the Taliban were bringing to regroup and attempt a new takeover by recruiting a new generation of terrorists. The Pakistani border was a key area for them as border security and troop levels were not especially great. In January 2003, the Taliban’s regrouped presence was discovered as they were stumbled upon along with their allies by U.S. troops. Fighting broke out; with losses on both sides. This took place near a cave by the Pakistani border which was believed to be an area where the Taliban were bringing in people to fight with them as well as a way to escape. This was began to be known at the Taliban Heartland and more fighting would take place here.
As the Iraq War was waging, much of the focus and man power was lacking in Afghanistan. Not that that was the ultimate factor, but beginning in 2006; the stability in the country began to weaken as there was an increased Taliban-led insurgency along with illegal drug activity and a weak government throughout the country. By the end of 2007, the Taliban was becoming very strong again and making things difficult for U.S. troops along with NATO forces and others working against the terrorist threat of the group and their allies. Bombings and random violence were not out of the ordinary for stretches of time. Both sides continued to deal the other blows including the death of a top militant on the Taliban side; Mawlawi Abdul Manan. 2007 would be the deadliest year for the American forces in Afghanistan as 100 Americans died throughout that year as fighting was increasing.
With this increased fighting, Admiral Mike Mullen, Staff Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, began to bring up the need for more troops as 2008 rolled around. He brought up the number 10,000 despite still saying that Iraq was the priority while Afghanistan was secondary at that time. There would be a surge during the first half of 2008 as 21,643 more troops were added and brought the total of American troops in the country to 48,250 by midyear. As the year went on, more troops would be relocated from Iraq to Afghanistan as necessary to stabilize the country from the terrorist threats reemerging stronger. There was a setback midyear, though, as Taliban fighters were able to break through NATO forces to release several Taliban prisoners and subsequently launched an attack in Kunar province. Things began to progress and by September the war was starting to spill out of the country as Pakistan had become a place for fighting and attacks. The area along the border of the two countries was becoming an even stronger base for Taliban and Al Qaeda activity and thus those forces had to ensure that survival through defense of the area by U.S. forces and others. This increased continuous fighting naturally made 2008 the deadliest year of the war as 113 U.S. soldiers’ lives were claimed. This year was equally deadly for other countries’ forces fighting alongside the U.S. However, by the end of 2008, the size of Al Qaeda forces were fairly low in the country. But Pakistan was becoming a threat to being to overtaken by the Taliban as Pakistani forces were not very experienced in war.
2009 would certainly be the worst year for the war as fighting just increased by unprecedented amounts compared to previous years. Fighting was deadly in one month (October 2009), there were 72 American deaths alone. By year’s end, 255 American lives had been claimed. It was over 40% more casualties than the previous year and more than the previous two years combined. These deaths and the continued fighting and growing terrorist threat by the Taliban and Al Qaeda made another surge and troop increase very possible and almost necessary to achieve the military objectives. Just earlier this month, President Obama announced the biggest decision in a while in the course of the war. After deliberation, he decided to increase the military involvement with an additional 30,000 troops with the premise that in about a year and a half there will be the beginning of troop withdrawal.
The public opinion of the war has changed drastically since its beginnings. In the fall of 2001, 88% of the American public was in factor of military action in Afghanistan. In one of the most recent polls earlier this month, only 32% of the American public is in favor of the war and a troop increase while 40% are against an increase in troops. In terms of the Afghans opinions, 69% said it was a good thing that U.S. forces removed the Taliban compared to 24% who said the opposite. Additionally, 63% of Afghans are in favor of U.S. military presence in the country, but only 18% supported a troop increase. The war has gathered support and opposition on both sides of the aisle in Congress. The longer the war has gone and the worse things have gotten in recent years have more and more people discontent with the war and any aspect of continuing it. However, despite the strong feelings that have emerged especially of late and at times since its start; the range of emotions seems slightly less overall than another war during this decade.
The Iraq War began a little more than a year after the Afghanistan War. It began without the strong emotions of a 9/11 and such to give it overwhelming public support. It has been questioned and criticized by many Americans and members of both parties, but especially the Democratic Party. Thus, the Iraq War is very much deserving of a spot among the biggest events and stories of the decade.
#4 Iraq War
The Iraq War began on March 20, 2003 when the combined forces of the U.S. and Great Britain invaded Iraq. The premise to entering Iraq was that they were in possession of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). The WMDs would pose a threat to the security of allies and those around that area of the world. Additionally, with the new threat of terrorism, Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was believed to be linked to those who support and were part of al-Qaeda. With both claims, there were no positive findings in favor of pursuing the war. The weapons programs had seemed to be halted around the end of the Gulf War and Hussein was only guilty of previous crimes against his countrymen. Other reasons that were given included involved the human rights abuses by Hussein and a way to spread our brand of American democracy to the Middle East. The invasion would lead to the capture of Saddam Hussein, who was later executed. Inside the country, the battles between the Sunnis and Shiites and an emerging al Qaeda in Iraq were consistent threats and difficulties for the coalition forces alongside the Iraqis.
In the early days of the Bush administration, behind the scenes one of his objectives was to take Saddam Hussein and create a new Iraq. He would take further steps in 2002 in terms of investigating the possibility of WMDs in Iraq. The UN studies and investigates did not uncover any suspicious behavior by Iraq and disarmament seemed possible given the proper time. The CIA informed the President of the lack of a connection between the minds behind 9/11 and men in Iraq. However, Vice President Dick Cheney and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld decided to go ahead and begin a program that would initiate the beginnings of starting the Iraq War. Much of the attention that the Bush administration continued to give to Iraq stemmed from the early 1990s and the Gulf War and the stockpiling of weapons that was taking place at that time. A major name in the early developments was George Tenet, the head of the CIA. He had been the one on September 18, 2002 to tell the President that no WMDs existed. This and all the lack of signs were dismissed and in addition not relayed to Congress and many members of the CIA. It would be Secretary of State Colin Powell who would before the UN and present a case for the Iraq War. He would mention later on after the start of the war that he was given misinformation and hence made an inaccurate case regarding WMDs and the necessity for war. Additionally in October 2002, before a Senate vote on action in Iraq, 3/4ths of the members were told of a possible attack along the east coast.
That was enough to gain momentum for President Bush’s War in Iraq as the Senate voted and approved the Joint Resolution for the U.S. invasion in a bipartisan vote on October 11, 2002. This would be followed by a major weapons inspector of the UN, Hans Blix, in early 2003 calling out Iraq for a lack of disarmament. To increase the case, the anthrax scare that the U.S. encountered after 9/11 was also brought up in the form that Iraq and Saddam Hussein had anthrax and botulism toxin and the ability to produce them. All the fears that Americans encountered in late 2001 were being connected to Iraq.
The early beginnings of the invasion began on July 10, 2002 as the CIA sent a team in to investigate the country. It would be on March 20, 2003 that the military invasion of Iraq officially began. Operation Iraqi Freedom would be the mission and charge for the U.S. and their allies. The goals of the invasion were: eliminate the WMDs (if they were there), overthrow Saddam Hussein, take down Islamist militants, secure Iraq’s petroleum infrastructure, and help assist and create a stable government as an ideal model for other Middle Eastern countries to follow. Within the first month, the U.S. had achieved a major milestone. Baghdad would fall on April 9th and thus end Hussein’s near 25 year rule. As they took the city, a huge statue of Saddam Hussein was torn down and marked a symbolic time. This “victory” and what seemed like good fortune, President Bush on May 1, 2003 had his “Mission Accomplished” speech on the USS Abraham Lincoln in San Diego, California. President Bush all but declared Iraq a victorious effort despite open-ended questions and much undecided and resolved including Saddam Hussein’s whereabouts.
In the coming months, there would be insurgent backlash; mostly among Hussein supporters. As coalition forces began to die down some of that; they would turn to working with the UN to start to establish that stable, democratic state that was part of the initial plan for invasion. However, the insurgents picked up their intensity and attacks began to increase. This would force the coalition forces to shift their priorities and as fighting continued; they looked to target anyone associated with Saddam Hussein. On July 22nd, Hussein’s sons, Uday and Qusay, as well several of the top leaders of Hussein’s regime were killed. To really make the year a success, Saddam Hussein was captured on December 13, 2003 in a hatch. This coupled with the decrease in the number of insurgent attacks made many feel that they were winning the fight. And once again things quickly changed as the insurgents targeted two centers: the area of Fallujah and certain Shia sections around Baghdad.
In 2004, the most serious fighting to that point occurred on March 31, 2004 when Iraqi insurgents attacked a convoy of US contractors in Fallujah. The death of the four contractors was a major headline story at the time and gave the war a larger visual. This would be the first battle in Fallujah and later in the year (November) the second battle occurred. It would be even worse than the first one in terms of carnage. Additionally, in 2004, prisoner abuse was running rapid at Abu Gharib, which would lead to a media spotlight on the issue. January 2005 would be a time of great importance in the ongoing process of creating a democratic state. On the 31st, Iraqis elected an Iraqi Transitional Government in order to create a constitution. 2005 gave some the hope that many of the worse days were behind them and there was a slight possibility that a withdrawal could begin. But like every time before, things shifted from good to bad as May 2005 was a month scarred by the worst bloodshed thus far to this point. Suicide bombers attacked multiple areas of Iraq. With all these events occurring, a study was done at the end of 2006 that came to the conclusion that things in Iraq were deteriorating and not looking very good. The report recommended reaching out to countries in the region and using caution with strategic efforts. Part of the change in strategy involved transferring more power to the Iraqi government. To conclude the year, Saddam Hussein was hanged on December 30, 2006 after being found guilty of multiple criminal offenses.
In early 2007, the troop surge was announced. President Bush proposed the addition of 21,500 more troops. About half way through the year, though, Iraqis were starting to get a little annoyed with having the U.S. occupation and wanted to hear more about a timetable of withdrawal. Making things even trickier for the U.S. and their troops was the fact that the British troops were slowly withdrawing and leaving fewer men. The surge had proved to be a nice boost, but things changed fast and by the fall a withdrawal of roughly 30,000 troops in the summer of 2008 was presented. And less than a year after announcing a surge, President Bush announced the planned limited withdrawal. The violence in Iraq by early 2008 was drastically lower and deaths began to increase again after a period of very little fatalities. Around the same time as the surge and its affects was also the Blackwater scandal/case. Members of Blackwater in September 2007 lost their licenses over their role in killing a handful of incident civilians. By the end of 2008, though, that was largely secondary to the role of the surge and violence levels that continued to show improvement. Within the two years from the surge’s onset to the end of President Bush’s administration, violence dropped by over 75%. Other data showed a lower total of murder and a vast lower amount of civilian deaths among other things that were rampant a few years earlier. Since the surge, which was questioned by those against, was working in terms of lower deaths and stabilizing Iraq (to some degree on both ends); General David Petraeus looked to gather support against too drastic of move in favor of a withdrawal.
To begin 2009, as a major step in the process in Iraq; the United States passes control of the Green Zone and the part of Baghdad that Hussein once resided to Iraqi officials as a way to allow them to take more responsibility under their provincial government. This would be followed by elections at the end of January. Expectations were lowered than expected in terms of disenfranchisement, fraud, and a low turnout. The next month, President Obama outlined one of his initiatives as the new President with dealing with Iraq and soldiers. He wants to see an end or a near stop of combat fighting by the end of next summer and the withdrawal of large amounts of troops leaving enough of a transition team for the next year before a full withdrawal by the end of the summer of 2011. The President worked alongside the Prime Minister of Iraq Nuri-al-Maliki and both appeared on board with the plan outlined. As part of the disapproval with the ongoing war by several allies, British troops; our earliest aide; were pulled and thus were no longer a combat team in the country.
As the focus has moved to Afghanistan in the last year, less troops are needed in Iraq and the hope is to transfer many to Afghanistan if need be or bring them home all together in roughly 2 years or so. Criticism has been very strong and some studies have revealed several hundred falsies connected to the rationale behind the war and things that transpired during it. Since its beginning, the war has cost $845 billion and has had many negative results among countries of the world in the Middle East and elsewhere. Several soldiers who have returned has voiced much opposition to the war for mostly its purpose as well as their treatment and conditions while in Iraq. As seen with the civilian deaths and treatment in war prisons, human rights abuses were prevalent at various points throughout the war. At the same time, despite the best interests of coalition forces and allies in Iraq; there have been misuses by Iraqis as well against themselves in similar fashions. As the war has continued, opposition has increased not only from American public opinion, but there is much distain for continuing a war among Iraqis and others in the region as well as Europe. Iraq was seen before the war started as a possible breeding ground of terrorists and American concern of terrorist activity was high and those in favor of a war certainly used that to their advantage. The war is at a state now where it has taken a back seat to the problems and issues ongoing in Afghanistan. Yet, unquestionably, the war still is and was one of the best events and stories of this decade.
Moving forward, I turn from war to a recession as we inch closer to the top story/event of the 2000s.
#5: Afghanistan War
On October 7, 2001, U.S.’s Operation Enduring Freedom was launched in Afghanistan in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11th. Alongside the U.S., England has had their share of troops in the country under their operation, Operation Herrick. Both countries entered with the objective to quarantine Al Qaeda and the Taliban and its supporters. This invasion was the first phase and involved the U.S. and their forces working along with the Afghan opposition forces of the Northern Alliance to rid the country of the Taliban. The underlining purpose was more than just the terrorists group but the mastermind of 9/11; Osama bin Laden and his associates. At the end of 2001, the second operation would begin with the forces looking to secure Kabul and its surrounding areas. As the war began to take shape, NATO forces were especially important in carrying out the manpower necessary to fulfill their goals. Early on, the air campaigns were crucial as getting to Kabul and maintaining it under the unified front was especially important.
The first true test and major battle was the Battle of Mazar-i Sharif on November 9, 2001. It was the home of two airfields and also was crucial to protection a border to Uzbekistan and thus keeping the Taliban and Al Qaeda from escaping there. It was a victorious effort for the Northern Alliance. Three days later, the Taliban forces left the city of Kabul and by the next day the Northern Alliance had control of the city. This victory was a major factor in the collapse Taliban strongholds. It would be at this early point that Pakistan became a target for Al Qaeda and the Taliban to regroup and create a safe harbor. At the end of November, the Northern Alliance along with the U.S. and NATO forces targeted Kandahar, which was the birthplace of the Taliban. By early December the Taliban were all but cornered and seemed to be in the works of surrendering, but they quickly changed course and left and avoided capture and being a complete loser in the battle between them and the Northern Alliance and U.S./NATO forces. Tora Bora was also targeted at this time and similarly the Taliban avoided a complete loss despite their lack of success against the forces moving through the region. It might have been a tactic by the Taliban to also enable Osama bin Laden and others more time to escape capture.
Things began to falter a bit after a year or so as the Taliban were bringing to regroup and attempt a new takeover by recruiting a new generation of terrorists. The Pakistani border was a key area for them as border security and troop levels were not especially great. In January 2003, the Taliban’s regrouped presence was discovered as they were stumbled upon along with their allies by U.S. troops. Fighting broke out; with losses on both sides. This took place near a cave by the Pakistani border which was believed to be an area where the Taliban were bringing in people to fight with them as well as a way to escape. This was began to be known at the Taliban Heartland and more fighting would take place here.
As the Iraq War was waging, much of the focus and man power was lacking in Afghanistan. Not that that was the ultimate factor, but beginning in 2006; the stability in the country began to weaken as there was an increased Taliban-led insurgency along with illegal drug activity and a weak government throughout the country. By the end of 2007, the Taliban was becoming very strong again and making things difficult for U.S. troops along with NATO forces and others working against the terrorist threat of the group and their allies. Bombings and random violence were not out of the ordinary for stretches of time. Both sides continued to deal the other blows including the death of a top militant on the Taliban side; Mawlawi Abdul Manan. 2007 would be the deadliest year for the American forces in Afghanistan as 100 Americans died throughout that year as fighting was increasing.
With this increased fighting, Admiral Mike Mullen, Staff Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, began to bring up the need for more troops as 2008 rolled around. He brought up the number 10,000 despite still saying that Iraq was the priority while Afghanistan was secondary at that time. There would be a surge during the first half of 2008 as 21,643 more troops were added and brought the total of American troops in the country to 48,250 by midyear. As the year went on, more troops would be relocated from Iraq to Afghanistan as necessary to stabilize the country from the terrorist threats reemerging stronger. There was a setback midyear, though, as Taliban fighters were able to break through NATO forces to release several Taliban prisoners and subsequently launched an attack in Kunar province. Things began to progress and by September the war was starting to spill out of the country as Pakistan had become a place for fighting and attacks. The area along the border of the two countries was becoming an even stronger base for Taliban and Al Qaeda activity and thus those forces had to ensure that survival through defense of the area by U.S. forces and others. This increased continuous fighting naturally made 2008 the deadliest year of the war as 113 U.S. soldiers’ lives were claimed. This year was equally deadly for other countries’ forces fighting alongside the U.S. However, by the end of 2008, the size of Al Qaeda forces were fairly low in the country. But Pakistan was becoming a threat to being to overtaken by the Taliban as Pakistani forces were not very experienced in war.
2009 would certainly be the worst year for the war as fighting just increased by unprecedented amounts compared to previous years. Fighting was deadly in one month (October 2009), there were 72 American deaths alone. By year’s end, 255 American lives had been claimed. It was over 40% more casualties than the previous year and more than the previous two years combined. These deaths and the continued fighting and growing terrorist threat by the Taliban and Al Qaeda made another surge and troop increase very possible and almost necessary to achieve the military objectives. Just earlier this month, President Obama announced the biggest decision in a while in the course of the war. After deliberation, he decided to increase the military involvement with an additional 30,000 troops with the premise that in about a year and a half there will be the beginning of troop withdrawal.
The public opinion of the war has changed drastically since its beginnings. In the fall of 2001, 88% of the American public was in factor of military action in Afghanistan. In one of the most recent polls earlier this month, only 32% of the American public is in favor of the war and a troop increase while 40% are against an increase in troops. In terms of the Afghans opinions, 69% said it was a good thing that U.S. forces removed the Taliban compared to 24% who said the opposite. Additionally, 63% of Afghans are in favor of U.S. military presence in the country, but only 18% supported a troop increase. The war has gathered support and opposition on both sides of the aisle in Congress. The longer the war has gone and the worse things have gotten in recent years have more and more people discontent with the war and any aspect of continuing it. However, despite the strong feelings that have emerged especially of late and at times since its start; the range of emotions seems slightly less overall than another war during this decade.
The Iraq War began a little more than a year after the Afghanistan War. It began without the strong emotions of a 9/11 and such to give it overwhelming public support. It has been questioned and criticized by many Americans and members of both parties, but especially the Democratic Party. Thus, the Iraq War is very much deserving of a spot among the biggest events and stories of the decade.
#4 Iraq War
The Iraq War began on March 20, 2003 when the combined forces of the U.S. and Great Britain invaded Iraq. The premise to entering Iraq was that they were in possession of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). The WMDs would pose a threat to the security of allies and those around that area of the world. Additionally, with the new threat of terrorism, Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was believed to be linked to those who support and were part of al-Qaeda. With both claims, there were no positive findings in favor of pursuing the war. The weapons programs had seemed to be halted around the end of the Gulf War and Hussein was only guilty of previous crimes against his countrymen. Other reasons that were given included involved the human rights abuses by Hussein and a way to spread our brand of American democracy to the Middle East. The invasion would lead to the capture of Saddam Hussein, who was later executed. Inside the country, the battles between the Sunnis and Shiites and an emerging al Qaeda in Iraq were consistent threats and difficulties for the coalition forces alongside the Iraqis.
In the early days of the Bush administration, behind the scenes one of his objectives was to take Saddam Hussein and create a new Iraq. He would take further steps in 2002 in terms of investigating the possibility of WMDs in Iraq. The UN studies and investigates did not uncover any suspicious behavior by Iraq and disarmament seemed possible given the proper time. The CIA informed the President of the lack of a connection between the minds behind 9/11 and men in Iraq. However, Vice President Dick Cheney and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld decided to go ahead and begin a program that would initiate the beginnings of starting the Iraq War. Much of the attention that the Bush administration continued to give to Iraq stemmed from the early 1990s and the Gulf War and the stockpiling of weapons that was taking place at that time. A major name in the early developments was George Tenet, the head of the CIA. He had been the one on September 18, 2002 to tell the President that no WMDs existed. This and all the lack of signs were dismissed and in addition not relayed to Congress and many members of the CIA. It would be Secretary of State Colin Powell who would before the UN and present a case for the Iraq War. He would mention later on after the start of the war that he was given misinformation and hence made an inaccurate case regarding WMDs and the necessity for war. Additionally in October 2002, before a Senate vote on action in Iraq, 3/4ths of the members were told of a possible attack along the east coast.
That was enough to gain momentum for President Bush’s War in Iraq as the Senate voted and approved the Joint Resolution for the U.S. invasion in a bipartisan vote on October 11, 2002. This would be followed by a major weapons inspector of the UN, Hans Blix, in early 2003 calling out Iraq for a lack of disarmament. To increase the case, the anthrax scare that the U.S. encountered after 9/11 was also brought up in the form that Iraq and Saddam Hussein had anthrax and botulism toxin and the ability to produce them. All the fears that Americans encountered in late 2001 were being connected to Iraq.
The early beginnings of the invasion began on July 10, 2002 as the CIA sent a team in to investigate the country. It would be on March 20, 2003 that the military invasion of Iraq officially began. Operation Iraqi Freedom would be the mission and charge for the U.S. and their allies. The goals of the invasion were: eliminate the WMDs (if they were there), overthrow Saddam Hussein, take down Islamist militants, secure Iraq’s petroleum infrastructure, and help assist and create a stable government as an ideal model for other Middle Eastern countries to follow. Within the first month, the U.S. had achieved a major milestone. Baghdad would fall on April 9th and thus end Hussein’s near 25 year rule. As they took the city, a huge statue of Saddam Hussein was torn down and marked a symbolic time. This “victory” and what seemed like good fortune, President Bush on May 1, 2003 had his “Mission Accomplished” speech on the USS Abraham Lincoln in San Diego, California. President Bush all but declared Iraq a victorious effort despite open-ended questions and much undecided and resolved including Saddam Hussein’s whereabouts.
In the coming months, there would be insurgent backlash; mostly among Hussein supporters. As coalition forces began to die down some of that; they would turn to working with the UN to start to establish that stable, democratic state that was part of the initial plan for invasion. However, the insurgents picked up their intensity and attacks began to increase. This would force the coalition forces to shift their priorities and as fighting continued; they looked to target anyone associated with Saddam Hussein. On July 22nd, Hussein’s sons, Uday and Qusay, as well several of the top leaders of Hussein’s regime were killed. To really make the year a success, Saddam Hussein was captured on December 13, 2003 in a hatch. This coupled with the decrease in the number of insurgent attacks made many feel that they were winning the fight. And once again things quickly changed as the insurgents targeted two centers: the area of Fallujah and certain Shia sections around Baghdad.
In 2004, the most serious fighting to that point occurred on March 31, 2004 when Iraqi insurgents attacked a convoy of US contractors in Fallujah. The death of the four contractors was a major headline story at the time and gave the war a larger visual. This would be the first battle in Fallujah and later in the year (November) the second battle occurred. It would be even worse than the first one in terms of carnage. Additionally, in 2004, prisoner abuse was running rapid at Abu Gharib, which would lead to a media spotlight on the issue. January 2005 would be a time of great importance in the ongoing process of creating a democratic state. On the 31st, Iraqis elected an Iraqi Transitional Government in order to create a constitution. 2005 gave some the hope that many of the worse days were behind them and there was a slight possibility that a withdrawal could begin. But like every time before, things shifted from good to bad as May 2005 was a month scarred by the worst bloodshed thus far to this point. Suicide bombers attacked multiple areas of Iraq. With all these events occurring, a study was done at the end of 2006 that came to the conclusion that things in Iraq were deteriorating and not looking very good. The report recommended reaching out to countries in the region and using caution with strategic efforts. Part of the change in strategy involved transferring more power to the Iraqi government. To conclude the year, Saddam Hussein was hanged on December 30, 2006 after being found guilty of multiple criminal offenses.
In early 2007, the troop surge was announced. President Bush proposed the addition of 21,500 more troops. About half way through the year, though, Iraqis were starting to get a little annoyed with having the U.S. occupation and wanted to hear more about a timetable of withdrawal. Making things even trickier for the U.S. and their troops was the fact that the British troops were slowly withdrawing and leaving fewer men. The surge had proved to be a nice boost, but things changed fast and by the fall a withdrawal of roughly 30,000 troops in the summer of 2008 was presented. And less than a year after announcing a surge, President Bush announced the planned limited withdrawal. The violence in Iraq by early 2008 was drastically lower and deaths began to increase again after a period of very little fatalities. Around the same time as the surge and its affects was also the Blackwater scandal/case. Members of Blackwater in September 2007 lost their licenses over their role in killing a handful of incident civilians. By the end of 2008, though, that was largely secondary to the role of the surge and violence levels that continued to show improvement. Within the two years from the surge’s onset to the end of President Bush’s administration, violence dropped by over 75%. Other data showed a lower total of murder and a vast lower amount of civilian deaths among other things that were rampant a few years earlier. Since the surge, which was questioned by those against, was working in terms of lower deaths and stabilizing Iraq (to some degree on both ends); General David Petraeus looked to gather support against too drastic of move in favor of a withdrawal.
To begin 2009, as a major step in the process in Iraq; the United States passes control of the Green Zone and the part of Baghdad that Hussein once resided to Iraqi officials as a way to allow them to take more responsibility under their provincial government. This would be followed by elections at the end of January. Expectations were lowered than expected in terms of disenfranchisement, fraud, and a low turnout. The next month, President Obama outlined one of his initiatives as the new President with dealing with Iraq and soldiers. He wants to see an end or a near stop of combat fighting by the end of next summer and the withdrawal of large amounts of troops leaving enough of a transition team for the next year before a full withdrawal by the end of the summer of 2011. The President worked alongside the Prime Minister of Iraq Nuri-al-Maliki and both appeared on board with the plan outlined. As part of the disapproval with the ongoing war by several allies, British troops; our earliest aide; were pulled and thus were no longer a combat team in the country.
As the focus has moved to Afghanistan in the last year, less troops are needed in Iraq and the hope is to transfer many to Afghanistan if need be or bring them home all together in roughly 2 years or so. Criticism has been very strong and some studies have revealed several hundred falsies connected to the rationale behind the war and things that transpired during it. Since its beginning, the war has cost $845 billion and has had many negative results among countries of the world in the Middle East and elsewhere. Several soldiers who have returned has voiced much opposition to the war for mostly its purpose as well as their treatment and conditions while in Iraq. As seen with the civilian deaths and treatment in war prisons, human rights abuses were prevalent at various points throughout the war. At the same time, despite the best interests of coalition forces and allies in Iraq; there have been misuses by Iraqis as well against themselves in similar fashions. As the war has continued, opposition has increased not only from American public opinion, but there is much distain for continuing a war among Iraqis and others in the region as well as Europe. Iraq was seen before the war started as a possible breeding ground of terrorists and American concern of terrorist activity was high and those in favor of a war certainly used that to their advantage. The war is at a state now where it has taken a back seat to the problems and issues ongoing in Afghanistan. Yet, unquestionably, the war still is and was one of the best events and stories of this decade.
Moving forward, I turn from war to a recession as we inch closer to the top story/event of the 2000s.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 6
Number six on the list of the top 10 events of the 2000s takes us back to the first year. After the fear of Y2K and the new decade and century had subsided, the attention turned toward who would be the next President of the United States. The contest pitted the current Vice President, Al Gore, against the Governor of Texas and son of former president George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush. What would transpire that November has still stood the test of time; nearly a decade later. In what was expected to be a close contest turned into one of the closest ever.
#6: The 2000 Presidential Election
President Bill Clinton was stepping down at the beginning of 2001 as per the two term limit of chief executives and thus we would see the first open election since 1960 (as per the fact that Lyndon Johnson’s name was featured on some ballots in 1968). Al Gore was the current Vice President and George W. Bush had served as the top man in Texas and had his father as an ex-President.
As the nomination season opened up, the Democratic side seemed pretty clear with Gore being the leading candidate. However former basketball player and U.S. Senator from New Jersey, Bill Bradley, entered his name into the fray. During the primaries, Gore easily defeated Bradley in the primaries largely due to having the backing of the Democratic Party. By March 14th, Gore had wrapped up the nomination. To run alongside Gore, Joseph Lieberman, Senator from Connecticut, was chosen and was the first Jewish-American chosen to run for this position of a major party.
Naturally on the Republican side, we saw a wide open field of candidates. Bush became an early front runner due to funds and name recognition. As the Iowa Caucus approached, a bunch of candidates dropped out leaving Bush, Senators John McCain and Orrin Hatch, Alan Keyes, Steve Forbes, and Gary Bauer. Bush would win in Iowa and Hatch would leave the race. McCain became a contrasting character against Bush. In the next primary in New Hampshire, McCain evened up the race with a win. Bauer would leave the race as well and Forbes shortly after. In South Carolina, Bush defeated McCain after using dirty tricks according to many on the McCain side. Bush’s team did “throw dirt” on McCain as they targeted his recent adoptive daughter from Bangladesh and accused him of fathering her out of wedlock. The South Carolina loss was a major setback for McCain. On Super Tuesday in March of 2000, Bush won big states and his success was the final straw for McCain as he was forced to suspend his campaign. Bush would wrap up the party’s nomination a week later. To run alongside him, Bush chose a former member of his father’s White House, Dick Cheney. Cheney was ironically chosen to lead a committee to research a possible running mate for Bush, but was chosen instead.
In the mix was a third party candidate, Ralph Nader. He was the wildcard in the race and was featured on more than 4 out of every 5 states’ ballots.
Domestic issues like the budget, taxes, and Social Security/Medicare/health care as well as social programs in general were at the forefront of the campaign. But of course, foreign policy was not ignored. Certain Clinton administration foreign policy decisions were questioned by Bush as Gore was part of the administration. Somalia and its tactical errors in the early part of the administration was one of key foreign policy targets of the Bush campaign. Ironically, Bush would denounce “nation building” during the campaign to only practice against what he preached. Gore would paint himself as the far more qualified candidate and pointed to the lack of necessary experience that Bush had. Also, Gore had the shadow of President Clinton lurking over him as it was still fresh in many voters’ minds the whole impeachment process and sex scandal of Bill Clinton. Bush and his party would exploit moral weaknesses of Clinton and thus Democrats by default. Because of this, Gore often avoided using President Clinton to his advantage since he carried that immoral baggage. Not using Clinton may have hurt Gore just enough to lose certain support and votes.
On November 7, 2000 we witnessed one of the closest elections as the country’s next president hinged on Florida. Bush held much of the normally Republican southern states with a comfortable margin and also nabbed Ohio among the big states. Gore was able to clean house in the Northeast and most of the Upper Midwest as Pacific states. As the election went into the morning hours, both men had been declared the winner in the Sunshine State, which also happened to be governed by candidate Bush’s younger brother, Jeb. Bush had 246 electoral votes to Gore’s 255. Both were just short of the necessary total. Florida was the biggest state of the handful of undecided at stake and the winner would be the next president. The election and Florida’s 25 votes went into a month tailspin and recounts.
The recount was mostly around four counties that leaned in the Democrats favor. The recounting process and its technicalities forced the U.S. Supreme Court to interject themselves at the end of November. On December 12th, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 vote that the Florida Supreme Court’s ruling requiring a statewide recount of ballots was unconstitutional and thus the recounts would not be able to be completed by a safe harbor deadline (that day) and cease to be certified. Shortly after the decision, Gore conceded the election to Bush.
At the conclusion, Bush had 271 electoral votes to Gore’s 266; 270 is the necessary amount to win. Florida’s 25 electoral votes were truly the difference and their votes would be put through a recount process. Despite winning the popular vote, Gore lost the electoral vote, which is the more important total in an election at the end of the day. It was the closest election for President since Rutherford B. Hayes, of Ohio, edged Samuel Tilden, of New York. The results were eerily similar in the aspect of Tilden also winning the popular vote and losing the general election amidst some controversy. In early 2001, several members of the Democratic Party in the U.S. Congress attempted to object to the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court. And Gore, still the President of the U.S. Senate, ruled against each objection made.
In the wake of the election, there were pushes for election reform for the next presidential election. The Florida jumble in terms of ballots had much to do with ballot designs and the “butterfly ballot”. These ballots caused voting irregularities in various forms. To assist with aiding these problems, electronic voting machines were to be installed.
Roughly nine years later, the debate is still out if the election was tinkered with in Florida and how big a role the state Supreme Court of Florida played in the results. There have been movies, documentaries, and discussions that shed light on the multiple issues that emerged from this election especially when pertaining to Florida. Bush went on to have what most historians would view as a less than great 8 years in office while Gore disappeared for a while before reemerging to be the leading voice in global warming and climate change.
Now as we enter the top 5, we start with two wars worthy of two spots. Both started by the man who won this election. Afghanistan and Iraq and the wars there have divided the country and have taken up much of the decade.
#6: The 2000 Presidential Election
President Bill Clinton was stepping down at the beginning of 2001 as per the two term limit of chief executives and thus we would see the first open election since 1960 (as per the fact that Lyndon Johnson’s name was featured on some ballots in 1968). Al Gore was the current Vice President and George W. Bush had served as the top man in Texas and had his father as an ex-President.
As the nomination season opened up, the Democratic side seemed pretty clear with Gore being the leading candidate. However former basketball player and U.S. Senator from New Jersey, Bill Bradley, entered his name into the fray. During the primaries, Gore easily defeated Bradley in the primaries largely due to having the backing of the Democratic Party. By March 14th, Gore had wrapped up the nomination. To run alongside Gore, Joseph Lieberman, Senator from Connecticut, was chosen and was the first Jewish-American chosen to run for this position of a major party.
Naturally on the Republican side, we saw a wide open field of candidates. Bush became an early front runner due to funds and name recognition. As the Iowa Caucus approached, a bunch of candidates dropped out leaving Bush, Senators John McCain and Orrin Hatch, Alan Keyes, Steve Forbes, and Gary Bauer. Bush would win in Iowa and Hatch would leave the race. McCain became a contrasting character against Bush. In the next primary in New Hampshire, McCain evened up the race with a win. Bauer would leave the race as well and Forbes shortly after. In South Carolina, Bush defeated McCain after using dirty tricks according to many on the McCain side. Bush’s team did “throw dirt” on McCain as they targeted his recent adoptive daughter from Bangladesh and accused him of fathering her out of wedlock. The South Carolina loss was a major setback for McCain. On Super Tuesday in March of 2000, Bush won big states and his success was the final straw for McCain as he was forced to suspend his campaign. Bush would wrap up the party’s nomination a week later. To run alongside him, Bush chose a former member of his father’s White House, Dick Cheney. Cheney was ironically chosen to lead a committee to research a possible running mate for Bush, but was chosen instead.
In the mix was a third party candidate, Ralph Nader. He was the wildcard in the race and was featured on more than 4 out of every 5 states’ ballots.
Domestic issues like the budget, taxes, and Social Security/Medicare/health care as well as social programs in general were at the forefront of the campaign. But of course, foreign policy was not ignored. Certain Clinton administration foreign policy decisions were questioned by Bush as Gore was part of the administration. Somalia and its tactical errors in the early part of the administration was one of key foreign policy targets of the Bush campaign. Ironically, Bush would denounce “nation building” during the campaign to only practice against what he preached. Gore would paint himself as the far more qualified candidate and pointed to the lack of necessary experience that Bush had. Also, Gore had the shadow of President Clinton lurking over him as it was still fresh in many voters’ minds the whole impeachment process and sex scandal of Bill Clinton. Bush and his party would exploit moral weaknesses of Clinton and thus Democrats by default. Because of this, Gore often avoided using President Clinton to his advantage since he carried that immoral baggage. Not using Clinton may have hurt Gore just enough to lose certain support and votes.
On November 7, 2000 we witnessed one of the closest elections as the country’s next president hinged on Florida. Bush held much of the normally Republican southern states with a comfortable margin and also nabbed Ohio among the big states. Gore was able to clean house in the Northeast and most of the Upper Midwest as Pacific states. As the election went into the morning hours, both men had been declared the winner in the Sunshine State, which also happened to be governed by candidate Bush’s younger brother, Jeb. Bush had 246 electoral votes to Gore’s 255. Both were just short of the necessary total. Florida was the biggest state of the handful of undecided at stake and the winner would be the next president. The election and Florida’s 25 votes went into a month tailspin and recounts.
The recount was mostly around four counties that leaned in the Democrats favor. The recounting process and its technicalities forced the U.S. Supreme Court to interject themselves at the end of November. On December 12th, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 vote that the Florida Supreme Court’s ruling requiring a statewide recount of ballots was unconstitutional and thus the recounts would not be able to be completed by a safe harbor deadline (that day) and cease to be certified. Shortly after the decision, Gore conceded the election to Bush.
At the conclusion, Bush had 271 electoral votes to Gore’s 266; 270 is the necessary amount to win. Florida’s 25 electoral votes were truly the difference and their votes would be put through a recount process. Despite winning the popular vote, Gore lost the electoral vote, which is the more important total in an election at the end of the day. It was the closest election for President since Rutherford B. Hayes, of Ohio, edged Samuel Tilden, of New York. The results were eerily similar in the aspect of Tilden also winning the popular vote and losing the general election amidst some controversy. In early 2001, several members of the Democratic Party in the U.S. Congress attempted to object to the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court. And Gore, still the President of the U.S. Senate, ruled against each objection made.
In the wake of the election, there were pushes for election reform for the next presidential election. The Florida jumble in terms of ballots had much to do with ballot designs and the “butterfly ballot”. These ballots caused voting irregularities in various forms. To assist with aiding these problems, electronic voting machines were to be installed.
Roughly nine years later, the debate is still out if the election was tinkered with in Florida and how big a role the state Supreme Court of Florida played in the results. There have been movies, documentaries, and discussions that shed light on the multiple issues that emerged from this election especially when pertaining to Florida. Bush went on to have what most historians would view as a less than great 8 years in office while Gore disappeared for a while before reemerging to be the leading voice in global warming and climate change.
Now as we enter the top 5, we start with two wars worthy of two spots. Both started by the man who won this election. Afghanistan and Iraq and the wars there have divided the country and have taken up much of the decade.
Friday, December 25, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 5
As we continue through the biggest moments and events of the 2000s, we now turn to quite possibly the worst natural disaster of the decade: #7 Hurricane Katrina.
Hurricane Katrina occurred during the 2005 hurricane season along the Atlantic coast. It was the costliest of the hurricanes that season and ranks as one of the worst ever to hit the United States. The hurricane formed in late August 2005 (August 23rd) and by the next day it had reached tropical storm status. It would graze part of Florida on the 25th and would gain strength as it entered the Gulf of Mexico. By the 27th it reached a Category 3 intensity it would reach Category 5 by the 28th. Then on the morning of August 29; it made landfall as a Category 3 storm hitting the southeast part of Louisiana with winds as high as 125 mph. The third landfall hit by the hurricane would come near Mississippi along the Louisiana border. The storm would travel up through Mississippi into Tennessee and up toward the Great Lakes as it lost steam.
New Orleans was greatly affected and the hurricane’s surge along the Gulf coast would affect areas as far west as Texas and as far east as central Florida. New Orleans, though, was far and above the worst hit. They lost many lives and incurred an unimaginable amount of damage as levees broke from the power of the hurricane. As much as 80% of the city and its neighboring areas were flooded and things did not begin to get slightly better for weeks. Unfortunately, a mandatory evacuation was not issued by New Orleans mayor Ray Nagin until the 28th when the hurricane had reached Category 5.
When all was said and done, almost 2,000 people lost their lives in the initial hurricane or the following floods. Most were from Louisiana/New Orleans as they totaled an overwhelming majority of the deaths while Mississippi lost a lot of lives as well. About 700 were reported as missing as well. The damages estimated to over $100 billion and the worse damage total in almost 20 years. Hurricane Katrina was the deadliest hurricane in U.S. history since 1928’s Okeechobee hurricane.
One of the biggest things that emerged from Hurricane Katrina was the failure of the levees. Their design and construction might have been faulty and allowed for more damage to occur from the hurricane’s power. The levees being weak enabled more than half of the flooding to occur. Worth mentioning too is the fact that flood gates were open and only made things that much worse. Additionally, the responses of the local, state, and federal government were called into question. As the hurricane was intensifying, the federal government began to look at how to prepare for what could be a really bad storm, but as it seemed to lessen; so did their strategies. However, a state of emergency was issued on the 27th in areas along the Gulf coast that seemed to be the most at threat. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and its director Michael Brown were heavily criticized and to the point where Brown resigned along with New Orleans’ Eddie Compass, the Superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department.
It has been over four years since Hurricane Katrina and we still see individuals in Louisiana and Mississippi in poor conditions and relocated. There were serious economic effects of the hurricane. Oil refineries and such were greatly affected by the floods. Also, several people in the hardest hit areas were displaced as many went to Houston, Texas as well as Mobile, Alabama and other areas in that region that were deemed safe enough. As with any disaster, there is a lack of law enforcement and that was no different in New Orleans especially as many looted stores for their own survival and for the pure fact of doing it. The lack of management and leadership in the relief efforts are still criticized to this day. There was a serious delay in response and only aided the chaos. The response though by several states and many countries was a great site as many came together for the few who were affected. In addition, many of levees that broke from Hurricane Katrina have been reconstructed with more precaution in mine to ensure that they can take stronger punishment than the previous ones.
The next entry will turn the clock back to the beginning of the decade and the lengthy Election of 2000. This election will stand the test of time as one of the most interesting presidential elections ever..but would be outdone by one more at the end of the decade.
Hurricane Katrina occurred during the 2005 hurricane season along the Atlantic coast. It was the costliest of the hurricanes that season and ranks as one of the worst ever to hit the United States. The hurricane formed in late August 2005 (August 23rd) and by the next day it had reached tropical storm status. It would graze part of Florida on the 25th and would gain strength as it entered the Gulf of Mexico. By the 27th it reached a Category 3 intensity it would reach Category 5 by the 28th. Then on the morning of August 29; it made landfall as a Category 3 storm hitting the southeast part of Louisiana with winds as high as 125 mph. The third landfall hit by the hurricane would come near Mississippi along the Louisiana border. The storm would travel up through Mississippi into Tennessee and up toward the Great Lakes as it lost steam.
New Orleans was greatly affected and the hurricane’s surge along the Gulf coast would affect areas as far west as Texas and as far east as central Florida. New Orleans, though, was far and above the worst hit. They lost many lives and incurred an unimaginable amount of damage as levees broke from the power of the hurricane. As much as 80% of the city and its neighboring areas were flooded and things did not begin to get slightly better for weeks. Unfortunately, a mandatory evacuation was not issued by New Orleans mayor Ray Nagin until the 28th when the hurricane had reached Category 5.
When all was said and done, almost 2,000 people lost their lives in the initial hurricane or the following floods. Most were from Louisiana/New Orleans as they totaled an overwhelming majority of the deaths while Mississippi lost a lot of lives as well. About 700 were reported as missing as well. The damages estimated to over $100 billion and the worse damage total in almost 20 years. Hurricane Katrina was the deadliest hurricane in U.S. history since 1928’s Okeechobee hurricane.
One of the biggest things that emerged from Hurricane Katrina was the failure of the levees. Their design and construction might have been faulty and allowed for more damage to occur from the hurricane’s power. The levees being weak enabled more than half of the flooding to occur. Worth mentioning too is the fact that flood gates were open and only made things that much worse. Additionally, the responses of the local, state, and federal government were called into question. As the hurricane was intensifying, the federal government began to look at how to prepare for what could be a really bad storm, but as it seemed to lessen; so did their strategies. However, a state of emergency was issued on the 27th in areas along the Gulf coast that seemed to be the most at threat. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and its director Michael Brown were heavily criticized and to the point where Brown resigned along with New Orleans’ Eddie Compass, the Superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department.
It has been over four years since Hurricane Katrina and we still see individuals in Louisiana and Mississippi in poor conditions and relocated. There were serious economic effects of the hurricane. Oil refineries and such were greatly affected by the floods. Also, several people in the hardest hit areas were displaced as many went to Houston, Texas as well as Mobile, Alabama and other areas in that region that were deemed safe enough. As with any disaster, there is a lack of law enforcement and that was no different in New Orleans especially as many looted stores for their own survival and for the pure fact of doing it. The lack of management and leadership in the relief efforts are still criticized to this day. There was a serious delay in response and only aided the chaos. The response though by several states and many countries was a great site as many came together for the few who were affected. In addition, many of levees that broke from Hurricane Katrina have been reconstructed with more precaution in mine to ensure that they can take stronger punishment than the previous ones.
The next entry will turn the clock back to the beginning of the decade and the lengthy Election of 2000. This election will stand the test of time as one of the most interesting presidential elections ever..but would be outdone by one more at the end of the decade.
Week 16 NFL Preview
Last week, we saw some turn of events and shockers in the big games of the weeks. In the big eye opener of the weekend, the Cowboys went to New Orleans and knocked off the previously unbeaten Saints and did it with a strong defensive effort. The team played about as close to perfect football and opened many people's eyes to how good this team is. The Saints dug themselves a hole that they couldn't get out of this time. They will have to go back to work and find a way to fix their problems as they playoffs are looming as is a shot at the number 1 seed in the NFC. This one is a huge boost for the Cowboys as they make a push to end their December and most likely their playoffs demons are in one year. The Chargers and the Bengals gave us a great game that was tied late and won by the Chargers. It was a crushing blow to the Bengals, who were playing with heavy hearts for their fallen former teammate. The Chargers, though, kept going full speed ahead as they continue to win this year and in December.
In an odd affair, the Vikings fell to the Panthers and suffered their second loss in the last three games after one having one during their start. The biggest story was the fact that QB Brett Favre and coach Brad Childress had some disagreements including Childress wanting to sit Favre down when they were up 7-6 in an important enough game. It has lingered on for most of the week and the Vikings need to put last week behind them or else their season will start to uncrumble. A good win though for the Panthers, who are finishing strong. Lastly, the Giants showed up on Monday Night; unfortunately the Redskins did not. The Giants had their most complete game since September as they kept their playoff hopes alive and lived to fight another week. Things are all about over for Jim Zorn and the Redskins. It will be an interesting off season once January arrives.
In other action, the Colts are still undefeated and played very motivated in a close division battle with the Jaguars; a team still fighting for the postseason. In what might have been the game of the week, the Packers and the Steelers put on a scoring showcase with the Steelers winning on the last play; a big bomb from QB Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers.
All and all, I went 10-6 last week and brings my total to 169-55 after fifteen weeks.
Now for Week 16:
Games of the Week:
Ravens at Steelers:This is crunch time for both teams. The Ravens are at 8-6 and the Steelers are at 7-7. The playoffs are in site and a loss for either, especially the Steelers, would be crushing. Expect a similar back-and-forth battle that might come down to one big offensive play or a defensive stop. These two have given us some classic games in the last two years and this one has a lot on the line. Pick: Steelers
Broncos at Eagles: There is a playoff feel in this one as former Eagles safety Brian Dawkins returns to Philadelphia one year after leaving. The Broncos know that their playoff lives are on the line this week against a team who is still fighting for their division. Expect some big hits and big plays. The Broncos have become a bad second half of the season team lately and it doesn't look good this week. Pick: Eagles
Sunday Night: Cowboys at Redskins: These are two hated rivals that always give us close matchups because of that hatred. The Redskins were playing hard until last week and that might be a bad omen this week as it looks like they might be shutting it down. While the Cowboys looked to have turned it up with a huge win in New Orleans last week. Might be another ugly for the Redskins. Pick: Cowboys
Monday Night: Vikings at Bears: How will the team respond after the Brett Favre-Brad Childress incident against the Panthers. The Saints' loss last week has opened the door again for the Vikings to gain home field advantage and they get a team in the Bears that has not looked very good this year. The divisional rivalry aspect of the game could make it an interesting game and much attention will be on the play of Favre as opposed to QB Jay Cutler, who has been possibly one of the worst regular starting QB this year. Pick: Vikings
Rest of the pack:
Christmas: Chargers at Titans: This one has the potential to be a really good game. The Chargers haven't tasted a loss in two months while the Titans have barely been in the loss column in the same time. The Titans know that a loss would all but end their postseason future after a strong rebound from a 0-6 start. I just don't know if HB Chris Johnson; in his pursuit of 2,000 rushing yards; will be able to do enough to win. Pick: Chargers
Bills at Falcons: Last week the Falcons got a clutch win in the closing minutes of the game to keep their hopes for a winning season alive even though the playoffs are out of the question this year. The Bills have begun to play very well under their interim coach and could provide a few big plays to WR Terrell Owens and utilize going against a still banged up Atlanta offense. Pick: Falcons
Chiefs at Bengals: This is more of a tune-up for the Bengals and a chance to feel good again after losing their teammate Chris Henry. HB Jamaal Charles has emerged in the latter part of this season replacing HB Larry Johnson in Kansas City and could be a top back next year. Expect him to continue his strong play. Pick: Bengals
Raiders at Browns: These are probably the two most criticized teams of the 2009 season. They have made a lot of bad plays and struggled on offense. However, the Browns are on a bit of winning streak and the Raiders have beaten some quality teams including two playoff-bound teams. This one might have a Lions-Browns feel or a Bills-Browns feel. Hope the former occurs for viewers sake. Pick: Browns
Seahawks at Packers: The Packers are in complete cruise control and are one the NFL's hottest teams. They have fixed their offensive line problems and all that time that QB Aaron Rodgers has has allowed him to put up big numbers. This might be another one of those offensive showcase games against a Seahawks team that has fallen from grace. Odd tidbit: These two teams are the two teams that the Bucs have beaten this year. Pick: Packers
Texans at Dolphins: This one has playoff atmosphere written all over it. The Texans and the Dolphins sit at 7-7. The winner takes a step toward making the postseason while the loser follows to hanging on by a thread. The Texans are in search of their first winning season and a playoff appearance. They have regained some of their confidence after faltering mid-season. The Dolphins have had a long year after having to deal with facing a tougher schedule this year. Pick: Dolphins
Jaguars at Patriots: This is yet another key playoff-esc matchup this week. The Patriots are in the playoffs, but need to continue to edge out some things as they have not looked like the same team of past years. While the Jaguars need a win to stay a better ground for a possible playoff spot. WR Randy Moss's play has been up and down in recent weeks. If the good Moss shows up expect a big win. Pick: Patriots
Buccaneers at Saints: The Saints will be tested this week in how they respond after their first loss of the season to Dallas. They get a team that they ran over earlier this year, but has begun to show glimpses of better play. This is an important game as the Saints don't want to enter the postseason on a losing note. Plus, they still are fighting for the top seed in the NFC. Pick: Saints
Panthers at Giants: The Giants showed everyone how they can play with their backs against the wall, but can they continue as a loss ends their season. It is also a big game as it will be the last Giants' game in the 33 year old Giants Stadium. Will they play inspired again to keep their playoff hopes alive for one more week. Pick: Giants
Rams at Cardinals: The Rams would love another win and especially at the hands a division rival. This game would be a good chance for the Cardinals to get their running game tuned up for the playoffs as they can't hope to rest their destiny and chances in QB Kurt Warner and all his receiving weapons. Pick: Cardinals
Lions at 49ers: The 49ers played hard this year, but fell short of a return to the playoffs. This will be a good chance to show everyone that they can play motivated with nothing on the line, but a win. Pick: 49ers
Jets at Colts: Will the Colts' starters play again? Is this the week the Colts lose? We don't know for sure, but the Jets definitely hurt their playoff chances with a late loss last week. The Colts would be wise to not shut things down too fast as it has not always payed off for them in the past. The Jets know that they need a win or they are all but eliminated if they fall to 7-8. Pick: Colts
Much to watch this week. Will the Colts go to 15-0? Which teams will take the next step towards the postseason and which ones will take a step back. A Giants' loss will lock up the six NFC playoff teams, while it will take until the end of next Sunday before we know the AFC playoff picture better.
In an odd affair, the Vikings fell to the Panthers and suffered their second loss in the last three games after one having one during their start. The biggest story was the fact that QB Brett Favre and coach Brad Childress had some disagreements including Childress wanting to sit Favre down when they were up 7-6 in an important enough game. It has lingered on for most of the week and the Vikings need to put last week behind them or else their season will start to uncrumble. A good win though for the Panthers, who are finishing strong. Lastly, the Giants showed up on Monday Night; unfortunately the Redskins did not. The Giants had their most complete game since September as they kept their playoff hopes alive and lived to fight another week. Things are all about over for Jim Zorn and the Redskins. It will be an interesting off season once January arrives.
In other action, the Colts are still undefeated and played very motivated in a close division battle with the Jaguars; a team still fighting for the postseason. In what might have been the game of the week, the Packers and the Steelers put on a scoring showcase with the Steelers winning on the last play; a big bomb from QB Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers.
All and all, I went 10-6 last week and brings my total to 169-55 after fifteen weeks.
Now for Week 16:
Games of the Week:
Ravens at Steelers:This is crunch time for both teams. The Ravens are at 8-6 and the Steelers are at 7-7. The playoffs are in site and a loss for either, especially the Steelers, would be crushing. Expect a similar back-and-forth battle that might come down to one big offensive play or a defensive stop. These two have given us some classic games in the last two years and this one has a lot on the line. Pick: Steelers
Broncos at Eagles: There is a playoff feel in this one as former Eagles safety Brian Dawkins returns to Philadelphia one year after leaving. The Broncos know that their playoff lives are on the line this week against a team who is still fighting for their division. Expect some big hits and big plays. The Broncos have become a bad second half of the season team lately and it doesn't look good this week. Pick: Eagles
Sunday Night: Cowboys at Redskins: These are two hated rivals that always give us close matchups because of that hatred. The Redskins were playing hard until last week and that might be a bad omen this week as it looks like they might be shutting it down. While the Cowboys looked to have turned it up with a huge win in New Orleans last week. Might be another ugly for the Redskins. Pick: Cowboys
Monday Night: Vikings at Bears: How will the team respond after the Brett Favre-Brad Childress incident against the Panthers. The Saints' loss last week has opened the door again for the Vikings to gain home field advantage and they get a team in the Bears that has not looked very good this year. The divisional rivalry aspect of the game could make it an interesting game and much attention will be on the play of Favre as opposed to QB Jay Cutler, who has been possibly one of the worst regular starting QB this year. Pick: Vikings
Rest of the pack:
Christmas: Chargers at Titans: This one has the potential to be a really good game. The Chargers haven't tasted a loss in two months while the Titans have barely been in the loss column in the same time. The Titans know that a loss would all but end their postseason future after a strong rebound from a 0-6 start. I just don't know if HB Chris Johnson; in his pursuit of 2,000 rushing yards; will be able to do enough to win. Pick: Chargers
Bills at Falcons: Last week the Falcons got a clutch win in the closing minutes of the game to keep their hopes for a winning season alive even though the playoffs are out of the question this year. The Bills have begun to play very well under their interim coach and could provide a few big plays to WR Terrell Owens and utilize going against a still banged up Atlanta offense. Pick: Falcons
Chiefs at Bengals: This is more of a tune-up for the Bengals and a chance to feel good again after losing their teammate Chris Henry. HB Jamaal Charles has emerged in the latter part of this season replacing HB Larry Johnson in Kansas City and could be a top back next year. Expect him to continue his strong play. Pick: Bengals
Raiders at Browns: These are probably the two most criticized teams of the 2009 season. They have made a lot of bad plays and struggled on offense. However, the Browns are on a bit of winning streak and the Raiders have beaten some quality teams including two playoff-bound teams. This one might have a Lions-Browns feel or a Bills-Browns feel. Hope the former occurs for viewers sake. Pick: Browns
Seahawks at Packers: The Packers are in complete cruise control and are one the NFL's hottest teams. They have fixed their offensive line problems and all that time that QB Aaron Rodgers has has allowed him to put up big numbers. This might be another one of those offensive showcase games against a Seahawks team that has fallen from grace. Odd tidbit: These two teams are the two teams that the Bucs have beaten this year. Pick: Packers
Texans at Dolphins: This one has playoff atmosphere written all over it. The Texans and the Dolphins sit at 7-7. The winner takes a step toward making the postseason while the loser follows to hanging on by a thread. The Texans are in search of their first winning season and a playoff appearance. They have regained some of their confidence after faltering mid-season. The Dolphins have had a long year after having to deal with facing a tougher schedule this year. Pick: Dolphins
Jaguars at Patriots: This is yet another key playoff-esc matchup this week. The Patriots are in the playoffs, but need to continue to edge out some things as they have not looked like the same team of past years. While the Jaguars need a win to stay a better ground for a possible playoff spot. WR Randy Moss's play has been up and down in recent weeks. If the good Moss shows up expect a big win. Pick: Patriots
Buccaneers at Saints: The Saints will be tested this week in how they respond after their first loss of the season to Dallas. They get a team that they ran over earlier this year, but has begun to show glimpses of better play. This is an important game as the Saints don't want to enter the postseason on a losing note. Plus, they still are fighting for the top seed in the NFC. Pick: Saints
Panthers at Giants: The Giants showed everyone how they can play with their backs against the wall, but can they continue as a loss ends their season. It is also a big game as it will be the last Giants' game in the 33 year old Giants Stadium. Will they play inspired again to keep their playoff hopes alive for one more week. Pick: Giants
Rams at Cardinals: The Rams would love another win and especially at the hands a division rival. This game would be a good chance for the Cardinals to get their running game tuned up for the playoffs as they can't hope to rest their destiny and chances in QB Kurt Warner and all his receiving weapons. Pick: Cardinals
Lions at 49ers: The 49ers played hard this year, but fell short of a return to the playoffs. This will be a good chance to show everyone that they can play motivated with nothing on the line, but a win. Pick: 49ers
Jets at Colts: Will the Colts' starters play again? Is this the week the Colts lose? We don't know for sure, but the Jets definitely hurt their playoff chances with a late loss last week. The Colts would be wise to not shut things down too fast as it has not always payed off for them in the past. The Jets know that they need a win or they are all but eliminated if they fall to 7-8. Pick: Colts
Much to watch this week. Will the Colts go to 15-0? Which teams will take the next step towards the postseason and which ones will take a step back. A Giants' loss will lock up the six NFC playoff teams, while it will take until the end of next Sunday before we know the AFC playoff picture better.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 4
As I move forward through my countdown of the 2000s, I come to number 8: The Anthrax Attacks.
In 2001, there was a lot going on and definitely launched the decade into a tailspin of activity. The George W. Bush administration was still in its early stages and America had experienced its worst attack on American soil since Pearl Harbor with 9/11. If things weren’t already chaotic that spring, a dangerous substance known as anthrax leaked its way throughout the United States. Beginning only days after September 11th, letters containing anthrax spores were mailed to news media offices as well offices of two U.S. Senators. Five people were killed and seventeen were infected. It would take almost seven years before a primary culprit would arise. The man who brought in by the FBI was Bruce Ivins, a scientist who worked at the government’s biodefense labs at Fort Detrick in Frederick, Maryland. Sensing his run was up, Ivins killed himself on July 27, 2008 and on the 6th of August, federal prosecutors declared Ivins the sole culprit of the crimes.
The attacks would come at two separate times. The first group was dated September 18, 2001 and they were postmarked from Trenton, New Jersey. The five letters were sent to ABC News, CBS News, NBC News, the New York Post, and the National Enquirer. The first four were located in New York City and the last one was in Boca Raton, Florida. The National Enquirer is at American Media, Inc; the same place where the Sun is published and where the first person died. That individual was Robert Stevens, someone who worked for the Sun. Only two of the five letters were found, but the affects of anthrax was seen at the five locations. On October 9th, two more letters were sent out with similar postmarks as the first ones. These two were addressed to Democratic Senators Tom Daschle of South Dakota and Patrick Leahy of Vermont. They both were highly influential members of Congress as the former was the Senate Majority Leader and the latter was the head of the Senate Judiciary Committee. An aide of Daschle discovered and opened the letter within that week while the one sent to Leahy was never opened and discovered about a month later. The Leahy letter accidentally went to the State Department, where David Horse, a postal worker, contracted inhalational anthrax. The second wave had stronger material and was believed to possibly be “weaponized”. Of the 22 who were infected by anthrax, five would die: Stevens; two employees of the Brentwood mail facility in Washington, D.C. (Thomas Morris Jr. and Joseph Curseen); and two who were infected by an unknown source of exposure (Kathy Nguyen, an immigrant in the Bronx, and Ottilie Lundgren, a widow in Oxford, Connecticut.
In the wake of these letters, an investigation began to see where they might have been mailed from. Princeton, New Jersey was targeted as the source of the mailings and a mailbox on Nassau Street was the only one of roughly 600 mailboxes that tested positive. The anthrax powder came in two forms: the course brown form that went to the news offices and the fine powder that was sent to the U.S. Senators. The brown powder only caused skin infections while the variety sent to the Florida office and the U.S. Senators was a more dangerous form known as inhalational anthrax. In the early stages of the investigation, there was a link between the samples to Saddam Hussein in the first months. The substance on the letters was similar to the material used in constructing biochemical weapons in Iraq. In addition, some were led to believe that Al Qaeda was behind the attacks since it was so close to the 9/11 attacks. There was a sense that the blame should be placed on the Middle East as the fervor was high with hatred toward that area. Working against those beliefs was the fact that the FBI knew that the anthrax powder had to have been made in a laboratory and not a cave in the Middle East. However, the President, Vice President, and others used the 9/11 attacks as reasoning to believe that the anthrax attacks were just a continuation.
Along the way, the investigation went along and names were sought in connection to the anthrax attacks. One such name was Dr. Steven Hatfill, who was named a “person of interest”. Hatfill denied anything to do with the letters and charges were dropped along with Hatfill getting a grievance payment for his hassle. The next name to come as a suspect was Dr. Philip Zack. Zack worked at Ft. Detrick and had some hostile tendencies and then was seen at the lab in the weeks following his firing. Zack was never proven to have anything to do the anthrax attacks. Then Dr. Bruce Ivins would become the last “person of interest”. On August 1, 2008, Ivins committed suicide. Ivins had spent much of the previous 20 years working at the biodefense labs at Ft. Detrick. Shortly before his death, Ivins was widely targeted by the FBI as someone who was believed to be the person behind the anthrax attacks. Five days after Ivins death, it was declared that he was the sole culprit of the crime.
There is still some dispute to this day is Bruce Ivins was the true culprit and if he was if he acted alone. The mailbox in Trenton didn't match Ivins's DNA not did his home has traces of anthrax. But that is definitely not enough to completely dismiss him as the main culprit. All that matters is 22 people were affected and 5 were left dead and that doesn't even take into consideration the level of fear it raised. September 11th, 2001 shook many people's sense of security and safety and these letters with potentially deadly powder in them only worsened those fears. Luckily, these letters were quick and after those initial weeks in September through November; the FBI prevented any more and looked to keep as many safe as possible. It is over 8 years later and the anthrax attacks still hit home to many and for that they are undoubtedly one of the biggest news events of the decade.
As I continue, the next story that shaped the decade was Hurricane Katrina, which effects can still be seen today.
In 2001, there was a lot going on and definitely launched the decade into a tailspin of activity. The George W. Bush administration was still in its early stages and America had experienced its worst attack on American soil since Pearl Harbor with 9/11. If things weren’t already chaotic that spring, a dangerous substance known as anthrax leaked its way throughout the United States. Beginning only days after September 11th, letters containing anthrax spores were mailed to news media offices as well offices of two U.S. Senators. Five people were killed and seventeen were infected. It would take almost seven years before a primary culprit would arise. The man who brought in by the FBI was Bruce Ivins, a scientist who worked at the government’s biodefense labs at Fort Detrick in Frederick, Maryland. Sensing his run was up, Ivins killed himself on July 27, 2008 and on the 6th of August, federal prosecutors declared Ivins the sole culprit of the crimes.
The attacks would come at two separate times. The first group was dated September 18, 2001 and they were postmarked from Trenton, New Jersey. The five letters were sent to ABC News, CBS News, NBC News, the New York Post, and the National Enquirer. The first four were located in New York City and the last one was in Boca Raton, Florida. The National Enquirer is at American Media, Inc; the same place where the Sun is published and where the first person died. That individual was Robert Stevens, someone who worked for the Sun. Only two of the five letters were found, but the affects of anthrax was seen at the five locations. On October 9th, two more letters were sent out with similar postmarks as the first ones. These two were addressed to Democratic Senators Tom Daschle of South Dakota and Patrick Leahy of Vermont. They both were highly influential members of Congress as the former was the Senate Majority Leader and the latter was the head of the Senate Judiciary Committee. An aide of Daschle discovered and opened the letter within that week while the one sent to Leahy was never opened and discovered about a month later. The Leahy letter accidentally went to the State Department, where David Horse, a postal worker, contracted inhalational anthrax. The second wave had stronger material and was believed to possibly be “weaponized”. Of the 22 who were infected by anthrax, five would die: Stevens; two employees of the Brentwood mail facility in Washington, D.C. (Thomas Morris Jr. and Joseph Curseen); and two who were infected by an unknown source of exposure (Kathy Nguyen, an immigrant in the Bronx, and Ottilie Lundgren, a widow in Oxford, Connecticut.
In the wake of these letters, an investigation began to see where they might have been mailed from. Princeton, New Jersey was targeted as the source of the mailings and a mailbox on Nassau Street was the only one of roughly 600 mailboxes that tested positive. The anthrax powder came in two forms: the course brown form that went to the news offices and the fine powder that was sent to the U.S. Senators. The brown powder only caused skin infections while the variety sent to the Florida office and the U.S. Senators was a more dangerous form known as inhalational anthrax. In the early stages of the investigation, there was a link between the samples to Saddam Hussein in the first months. The substance on the letters was similar to the material used in constructing biochemical weapons in Iraq. In addition, some were led to believe that Al Qaeda was behind the attacks since it was so close to the 9/11 attacks. There was a sense that the blame should be placed on the Middle East as the fervor was high with hatred toward that area. Working against those beliefs was the fact that the FBI knew that the anthrax powder had to have been made in a laboratory and not a cave in the Middle East. However, the President, Vice President, and others used the 9/11 attacks as reasoning to believe that the anthrax attacks were just a continuation.
Along the way, the investigation went along and names were sought in connection to the anthrax attacks. One such name was Dr. Steven Hatfill, who was named a “person of interest”. Hatfill denied anything to do with the letters and charges were dropped along with Hatfill getting a grievance payment for his hassle. The next name to come as a suspect was Dr. Philip Zack. Zack worked at Ft. Detrick and had some hostile tendencies and then was seen at the lab in the weeks following his firing. Zack was never proven to have anything to do the anthrax attacks. Then Dr. Bruce Ivins would become the last “person of interest”. On August 1, 2008, Ivins committed suicide. Ivins had spent much of the previous 20 years working at the biodefense labs at Ft. Detrick. Shortly before his death, Ivins was widely targeted by the FBI as someone who was believed to be the person behind the anthrax attacks. Five days after Ivins death, it was declared that he was the sole culprit of the crime.
There is still some dispute to this day is Bruce Ivins was the true culprit and if he was if he acted alone. The mailbox in Trenton didn't match Ivins's DNA not did his home has traces of anthrax. But that is definitely not enough to completely dismiss him as the main culprit. All that matters is 22 people were affected and 5 were left dead and that doesn't even take into consideration the level of fear it raised. September 11th, 2001 shook many people's sense of security and safety and these letters with potentially deadly powder in them only worsened those fears. Luckily, these letters were quick and after those initial weeks in September through November; the FBI prevented any more and looked to keep as many safe as possible. It is over 8 years later and the anthrax attacks still hit home to many and for that they are undoubtedly one of the biggest news events of the decade.
As I continue, the next story that shaped the decade was Hurricane Katrina, which effects can still be seen today.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 3
Moving forward down my list of the top events of the decade I turn to number 9: the Elections of 2004 and 2006. One was a presidential one featuring John Kerry and George W. Bush and the other was a critical midterm election.
In 2004, George W. Bush entered as the incumbent in the midst of two wars and a continued war on terror. Hence, the foreign agenda dominated the primaries and the election. The Iraq invasion in 2003 was definitely on a lot of people's minds. Similarly to 2000, there was a close vote that gave way to some uncertainty of accuracy in the results. Senator John Kerry had emerged from a crowded Democratic candidate pool, but his fate would come down to Ohio. Just like Florida in 2000, Ohio had enough electoral votes to put George W. Bush over the top and enough to prevent John Kerry from victory. The end result would be Bush with 286 electoral votes and Kerry with 251.
To get to this election would be three years and a tumultuous fourth with debates, primaries, and a lot of sparring. Less than a year into the Bush presidency, the terrorist attacks on 9/11 took place and shook the foundation of the United States and shifted his presidency. His approval ratings skyrocketed to close 90% as patriotism was at an all time high. This attack would set in motion the Afghanistan War, which I will talk about more in another post. In 2003, Bush would then target Iraq and begin a second war in the Middle East. Afghanistan was based around the terrorist attack and Osama Bin Laden while Iraq was based around the possibility of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and Saddam Hussein. These two wars were enough for Bush to get his party around him and ward off much of a primary challenge. For that reason, Bush had enough delegates to sow up the Republican nomination. On September 2, 2004; along with Vice President Dick Cheney; he accepted the party's nomination at their convention in New York City. The party platform centered around defending America from terrorism.
On the Democratic side, things were not as crystal clear. With about an year until the election, Howard Dean, governor of Vermont, emerged as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination. A big source of his lead was his groundbreaking strategy to use the Internet to raise funds and promote his candidacy. Another big name on the Democratic side was Kerry. He had fewer endorsements and trailed in the superdelegates count entering Iowa in January 2004. Sound familiar? Kerry was getting a lot of endorsements though in early states like Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. Kerry's campaign was a bit rocky in the beginning, but he recovered to win the Iowa caucus in a bit of a shock. Finishing second was John Edwards, a Senator as well. Also in the race was retired four-star general Wesley Clark and Dick Gephardt. The biggest thing that came out of the Iowa caucus was the post-caucus speech by Howard Dean. The "BYAHH" rant was a bit over the top and might have hurt Dean's prospects of coming back after a third place finish in Iowa. Kerry continued his momentum with a win in New Hampshire. After being unable to gain enough momentum, Dean withdrew early on in the primary season and left Edwards as the chief opponent for Kerry. With an impressive showing on Super Tuesday, Kerry was all but the nominee and with that Edwards withdrew. In July at the Democratic Convention in Boston, MA; John Kerry was officially nominated as the candidate of the Democratic Party for president and John Edwards was chosen to run alongside him. The ticket would center their platform around making America safer and more respected.
In terms of the campaign, Bush was all about national security and he would paint Kerry as someone weak on the subject and indecisive compared to himself. The threat of terrorism and two wars gave many Americans a lot of uncertainty when it came to national security and needed to know who they could trust more. Bush also looked to show himself as more connected with the American electorate as a whole compared to Kerry who was "out of touch". Kerry was also said to be more concerned with domestic issues than foreign ones when in 2004 much of the focus was on areas outside our borders. Then much of the focus turned away from what the two men were about as a candidate for president to what they were like 30 plus years earlier. There was much focus on the two's military service and in Bush's case; his lack of such service. However, there was also a campaign against Kerry led by Swift Vets and POWs for Truth in regard to whether Kerry was as honorable a serviceman as he built himself to be. These ads plus the post convention "bumps" gave President Bush a double digit lead over Kerry with about two months to go.
During the course of a few weeks that fall, there would be three presidential and one vice presidential debates. The first debate focused on foreign policy and the Iraq dominated much of the conversation. Before the second presidential debate, the vice presidential debate occurred. The second debate was an informal town hall style debate. The third debate was more along the same lines at the first one with domestic issues on the agenda. The debates gave Kerry a bump and created a close race down the stretch. Not much would change as the previous ads and statements that were brought up in the early part of the fall and late summer only got more intense as election day approached.
Recently, Tom Ridge, the former Head of the Homeland Security Department, mentioned that there were possible changes made last minute to the color-coded threat meter. There is not 100% certainty of if the threat was real at the time worthy of increasing the color from yellow to orange. It definitely played into how voters approached election day as they needed to chose between keeping a war president in office or elect a new person to direct the nation during two wars and a new world perspective with terrorism at the center. Ultimately it would be Ohio that still to this day is a center of some controversy. Polling locations had lines, were turning people away, and there might have been ballots that were not 100% accurate. However, there was not of case to be made for that and Bush edged by again to get a second term and continue to build upon his first term while Kerry went home empty handed to think about missed opportunities to win. This election will probably be dismissed over time as it is sandwiched in between the disputed election of 2000 and the historic election of 2008. But it is still a close election that at times lost its main focus through propaganda and a fear of terrorism. Hence, it was definitely one of the biggest events of the 2000s.
The midterm elections in 2006 were certainly one of the bigger midterm elections in recent history. 33 of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate were up for grabs. Six Republican Senators (Rick Santorum (PA), Mike DeWine (OH), Lincoln Chafee (RI), Jim Talent (MO), Conrad Burns (MT), and George Allen (VA)) all lost while Democrats kept their seats in a race in MN and a race in MD. Republicans held onto their lone open seat in TN. Senator Joseph Lieberman lost a Democratic primary in CT, but got reelected as an independent and Bernie Sanders won an open seat in VT as an independent. Two new females joined the Senate (Claire McCaskill and Amy Klobuchar) and brought the total females in the Senate up to 16; an all time high. The victories tipped the balance of power in the Senate and gave the Democrats a 51-49 when you include Senators Sanders and Lieberman who caucused with the Democrats.
Many races were close and featured open seats that made things that much more interesting. In Missouri, Jim Talent (R) was running for a full term against Claire McCaskill (D). In the end, McCaskill edged Talent 50% to 47% and claimed the seat. In Montana, Conrad Burns (R) was barely reelected in 2000 and would face a tough challenge from state Senator Jon Tester (D). Burns had made some missteps that gave Tester a lead, but the gap closed. However, Tester would prevail by a little more than 3,000 votes. In Ohio, Mike DeWine (R) faced tough times for his party in the state and would have to deal with a tough challenge Representative Sherrod Brown (D). As the election neared, Brown gained a bigger advantage over DeWine and ended up winning the seat by a 56% to 44% margin. In Pennsylvania, Rick Santorum (R) was a major target of the Democratic Party and the Party chose Bob Casey (D) as their challenger and put all their resources behind him. Santorum only continued to dig himself a bigger grave and suffered the worse incumbent Senatorial loss since 1980 when Casey cruised past him with a 59% to 41% victory. In Rhode Island, Lincoln Chafee (R) faced the challenge of running for reelection in a heavily Democratic state with a bad view towards a Republican president and also had to deal with the tough challenge from former State Attorney General Sheldon Whitehouse. Chafee was a liberal member of his party, but it wasn't enough as Whitehouse won by a vote of 53% to 47%. In Virginia, George Allen (R) had put himself in a great position early on and had a double digit lead and even had his name among potential candidates in 2008. He hurt himself in the summer and early fall though with racial slurs including the "macaca" comment about one of his opponent's, Jim Webb (D), staffers. These big mistakes by Allen cost him dearly as the gap closed and Webb emerged with a slight advantage. When the dust cleared, the result was the closest percentage wise of all the Senate races as Webb edged Allen by about 7,000 votes or approximately 0.5% of the votes. The contest lingered a couple days after election day with some re-analysis of results before Allen finally conceded.
One of the more controversial races took place in Tennessee featuring Bob Corker (R) against Harold Ford Jr. (D). The race was an open seat contest that got interesting late with ads against Ford linking him to attending Playboy parties. The race was close as both were well funded and popular in the state. In the end, Corker edged Ford with a victory by 51% to 48%. There is still some debate about the ads and the role they played.
When the dust settled, the Democratic Party had regained majorities in both the Senate and the House of Representatives after 12 years. With that also came the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives with Nancy Pelosi taking over the gavel. Harry Reid became the new Senate Majority Leader. It was an election that was a sign of things to possibly come in 2008 and also a rejection of much of the decisions of the Republican Congress under President Bush's guidance. Not often do a lot of seats switch the way they did and certainly was one of the most eventful midterm elections. And ranks among one of the major events of the decade of the 2000s.
Next we turn to another major event: the Anthrax outbreak.
In 2004, George W. Bush entered as the incumbent in the midst of two wars and a continued war on terror. Hence, the foreign agenda dominated the primaries and the election. The Iraq invasion in 2003 was definitely on a lot of people's minds. Similarly to 2000, there was a close vote that gave way to some uncertainty of accuracy in the results. Senator John Kerry had emerged from a crowded Democratic candidate pool, but his fate would come down to Ohio. Just like Florida in 2000, Ohio had enough electoral votes to put George W. Bush over the top and enough to prevent John Kerry from victory. The end result would be Bush with 286 electoral votes and Kerry with 251.
To get to this election would be three years and a tumultuous fourth with debates, primaries, and a lot of sparring. Less than a year into the Bush presidency, the terrorist attacks on 9/11 took place and shook the foundation of the United States and shifted his presidency. His approval ratings skyrocketed to close 90% as patriotism was at an all time high. This attack would set in motion the Afghanistan War, which I will talk about more in another post. In 2003, Bush would then target Iraq and begin a second war in the Middle East. Afghanistan was based around the terrorist attack and Osama Bin Laden while Iraq was based around the possibility of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and Saddam Hussein. These two wars were enough for Bush to get his party around him and ward off much of a primary challenge. For that reason, Bush had enough delegates to sow up the Republican nomination. On September 2, 2004; along with Vice President Dick Cheney; he accepted the party's nomination at their convention in New York City. The party platform centered around defending America from terrorism.
On the Democratic side, things were not as crystal clear. With about an year until the election, Howard Dean, governor of Vermont, emerged as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination. A big source of his lead was his groundbreaking strategy to use the Internet to raise funds and promote his candidacy. Another big name on the Democratic side was Kerry. He had fewer endorsements and trailed in the superdelegates count entering Iowa in January 2004. Sound familiar? Kerry was getting a lot of endorsements though in early states like Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. Kerry's campaign was a bit rocky in the beginning, but he recovered to win the Iowa caucus in a bit of a shock. Finishing second was John Edwards, a Senator as well. Also in the race was retired four-star general Wesley Clark and Dick Gephardt. The biggest thing that came out of the Iowa caucus was the post-caucus speech by Howard Dean. The "BYAHH" rant was a bit over the top and might have hurt Dean's prospects of coming back after a third place finish in Iowa. Kerry continued his momentum with a win in New Hampshire. After being unable to gain enough momentum, Dean withdrew early on in the primary season and left Edwards as the chief opponent for Kerry. With an impressive showing on Super Tuesday, Kerry was all but the nominee and with that Edwards withdrew. In July at the Democratic Convention in Boston, MA; John Kerry was officially nominated as the candidate of the Democratic Party for president and John Edwards was chosen to run alongside him. The ticket would center their platform around making America safer and more respected.
In terms of the campaign, Bush was all about national security and he would paint Kerry as someone weak on the subject and indecisive compared to himself. The threat of terrorism and two wars gave many Americans a lot of uncertainty when it came to national security and needed to know who they could trust more. Bush also looked to show himself as more connected with the American electorate as a whole compared to Kerry who was "out of touch". Kerry was also said to be more concerned with domestic issues than foreign ones when in 2004 much of the focus was on areas outside our borders. Then much of the focus turned away from what the two men were about as a candidate for president to what they were like 30 plus years earlier. There was much focus on the two's military service and in Bush's case; his lack of such service. However, there was also a campaign against Kerry led by Swift Vets and POWs for Truth in regard to whether Kerry was as honorable a serviceman as he built himself to be. These ads plus the post convention "bumps" gave President Bush a double digit lead over Kerry with about two months to go.
During the course of a few weeks that fall, there would be three presidential and one vice presidential debates. The first debate focused on foreign policy and the Iraq dominated much of the conversation. Before the second presidential debate, the vice presidential debate occurred. The second debate was an informal town hall style debate. The third debate was more along the same lines at the first one with domestic issues on the agenda. The debates gave Kerry a bump and created a close race down the stretch. Not much would change as the previous ads and statements that were brought up in the early part of the fall and late summer only got more intense as election day approached.
Recently, Tom Ridge, the former Head of the Homeland Security Department, mentioned that there were possible changes made last minute to the color-coded threat meter. There is not 100% certainty of if the threat was real at the time worthy of increasing the color from yellow to orange. It definitely played into how voters approached election day as they needed to chose between keeping a war president in office or elect a new person to direct the nation during two wars and a new world perspective with terrorism at the center. Ultimately it would be Ohio that still to this day is a center of some controversy. Polling locations had lines, were turning people away, and there might have been ballots that were not 100% accurate. However, there was not of case to be made for that and Bush edged by again to get a second term and continue to build upon his first term while Kerry went home empty handed to think about missed opportunities to win. This election will probably be dismissed over time as it is sandwiched in between the disputed election of 2000 and the historic election of 2008. But it is still a close election that at times lost its main focus through propaganda and a fear of terrorism. Hence, it was definitely one of the biggest events of the 2000s.
The midterm elections in 2006 were certainly one of the bigger midterm elections in recent history. 33 of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate were up for grabs. Six Republican Senators (Rick Santorum (PA), Mike DeWine (OH), Lincoln Chafee (RI), Jim Talent (MO), Conrad Burns (MT), and George Allen (VA)) all lost while Democrats kept their seats in a race in MN and a race in MD. Republicans held onto their lone open seat in TN. Senator Joseph Lieberman lost a Democratic primary in CT, but got reelected as an independent and Bernie Sanders won an open seat in VT as an independent. Two new females joined the Senate (Claire McCaskill and Amy Klobuchar) and brought the total females in the Senate up to 16; an all time high. The victories tipped the balance of power in the Senate and gave the Democrats a 51-49 when you include Senators Sanders and Lieberman who caucused with the Democrats.
Many races were close and featured open seats that made things that much more interesting. In Missouri, Jim Talent (R) was running for a full term against Claire McCaskill (D). In the end, McCaskill edged Talent 50% to 47% and claimed the seat. In Montana, Conrad Burns (R) was barely reelected in 2000 and would face a tough challenge from state Senator Jon Tester (D). Burns had made some missteps that gave Tester a lead, but the gap closed. However, Tester would prevail by a little more than 3,000 votes. In Ohio, Mike DeWine (R) faced tough times for his party in the state and would have to deal with a tough challenge Representative Sherrod Brown (D). As the election neared, Brown gained a bigger advantage over DeWine and ended up winning the seat by a 56% to 44% margin. In Pennsylvania, Rick Santorum (R) was a major target of the Democratic Party and the Party chose Bob Casey (D) as their challenger and put all their resources behind him. Santorum only continued to dig himself a bigger grave and suffered the worse incumbent Senatorial loss since 1980 when Casey cruised past him with a 59% to 41% victory. In Rhode Island, Lincoln Chafee (R) faced the challenge of running for reelection in a heavily Democratic state with a bad view towards a Republican president and also had to deal with the tough challenge from former State Attorney General Sheldon Whitehouse. Chafee was a liberal member of his party, but it wasn't enough as Whitehouse won by a vote of 53% to 47%. In Virginia, George Allen (R) had put himself in a great position early on and had a double digit lead and even had his name among potential candidates in 2008. He hurt himself in the summer and early fall though with racial slurs including the "macaca" comment about one of his opponent's, Jim Webb (D), staffers. These big mistakes by Allen cost him dearly as the gap closed and Webb emerged with a slight advantage. When the dust cleared, the result was the closest percentage wise of all the Senate races as Webb edged Allen by about 7,000 votes or approximately 0.5% of the votes. The contest lingered a couple days after election day with some re-analysis of results before Allen finally conceded.
One of the more controversial races took place in Tennessee featuring Bob Corker (R) against Harold Ford Jr. (D). The race was an open seat contest that got interesting late with ads against Ford linking him to attending Playboy parties. The race was close as both were well funded and popular in the state. In the end, Corker edged Ford with a victory by 51% to 48%. There is still some debate about the ads and the role they played.
When the dust settled, the Democratic Party had regained majorities in both the Senate and the House of Representatives after 12 years. With that also came the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives with Nancy Pelosi taking over the gavel. Harry Reid became the new Senate Majority Leader. It was an election that was a sign of things to possibly come in 2008 and also a rejection of much of the decisions of the Republican Congress under President Bush's guidance. Not often do a lot of seats switch the way they did and certainly was one of the most eventful midterm elections. And ranks among one of the major events of the decade of the 2000s.
Next we turn to another major event: the Anthrax outbreak.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Week 16 NFL Power Rankings
A bit of a shake up at the top this week as the Colts stayed perfect while the Saints tasted their first defeat and swapped places. The Chargers and the Vikings also swapped spots as the Chargers continue to win and the Vikings have stumbled a bit lately. The Eagles round up the top 5 and the Cowboys jumped up with a big win to right outside the top 5. The playoff teams aren't much clearer in the AFC with many 7-7 and 8-6 squads.
2009 Power Rankings (going into Week 16):
1.(2) Colts (14-0): The Colts now stand alone and control if they want to go for history.
2.(1) Saints (13-1): They met a tough defense and a determined Dallas team that played unstoppable against a previously unbeaten team.
3.(4) Chargers (11-3): From 2-3 to 9 straight. Hard to argue that this might be the hottest team going towards the postseason.
4.(3) Vikings (11-3): After a 10-1 start, they are now 1-2 in their last three and their might be some cracks between the QB and coach.
5.(5) Eagles (10-4): They are start to get hot and are on a bit of winning streak and the Vikings have opened the door for them to get a bye.
6.(10) Cowboys (9-5): Talk about a big win for a desperate team. They now know they can play up to talented teams.
7.(8) Patriots (9-5): The Patriots showed some life on both sides of the ball.
8.(6) Packers (9-5): They are probably a little upset at giving up the game on the last play and also giving up all those points.
9.(7) Bengals (9-5): A tough loss to close out a tough week.
10.(9) Cardinals (9-5): Not exactly a dominant performance against one of the worst teams in the Lions.
11.(12) Ravens (8-6): They are playing well enough now to outlast many wildcard contenders.
12.(14) Giants (8-6): They knew they had to make a statement and did.
13.(11) Broncos (8-6): They are slipping away and are in danger of missing the playoffs after that great start.
14.(15) Titans (7-7): They are surging and could still sneak into the postseason with a couple big wins to close out.
15.(19) Steelers (7-7): They didn’t quite play as well as they wished in December thus far, but might make some noise after all.
16.(18) Falcons (7-7): Still can get those back to back winning seasons by winning out.
17.(13) Dolphins (7-7): A few errors downed them and possibly their playoff chances.
18.(16) Jaguars (7-7): They gave the Colts a challenge and will need to be aggressive again this week against the Patriots.
19.(17) Jets (7-7): They are fading again and their postseason lives lie in two teams that could rest players if they want.
20.(21) Texans (7-7): They are still in this big AFC wildcard picture and need to win out to give themselves a great chance.
21.(22) Panthers (6-8): They have showed some dominance with another big win.
22.(20) 49ers (6-8): They made strides and will have a great chance to finish strong.
23.(27) Raiders (5-9): Another stunning win. Can they finish on a win streak?
24.(25) Bears (5-9): More offensive struggles for a team that was supposed to be better on that side of the ball.
25.(23) Bills (5-9): Couldn’t get much done against a not so great Patriots’ defense.
26.(24) Seahawks (5-9): Another bad loss in another tough season.
27.(29) Browns (3-11): They now have two wins in a row and are getting some plays from the ground game.
28.(27) Redskins (4-10): Change might be coming soon again to D.C.
29.(28) Chiefs (3-11): More disappointment for a team suffering a lot of it.
30.(31) Buccaneers (2-12): Another win has to make them feel good.
31.(30) Lions (2-12): They showed some live against the very good Cardinals.
32.(32) Rams (1-13): Not much is going good for this team on and off the field this year.
Should be an exciting week as the picture can become clearer. Will the Colts continue to pursue history or will they pull up? We shall see.
2009 Power Rankings (going into Week 16):
1.(2) Colts (14-0): The Colts now stand alone and control if they want to go for history.
2.(1) Saints (13-1): They met a tough defense and a determined Dallas team that played unstoppable against a previously unbeaten team.
3.(4) Chargers (11-3): From 2-3 to 9 straight. Hard to argue that this might be the hottest team going towards the postseason.
4.(3) Vikings (11-3): After a 10-1 start, they are now 1-2 in their last three and their might be some cracks between the QB and coach.
5.(5) Eagles (10-4): They are start to get hot and are on a bit of winning streak and the Vikings have opened the door for them to get a bye.
6.(10) Cowboys (9-5): Talk about a big win for a desperate team. They now know they can play up to talented teams.
7.(8) Patriots (9-5): The Patriots showed some life on both sides of the ball.
8.(6) Packers (9-5): They are probably a little upset at giving up the game on the last play and also giving up all those points.
9.(7) Bengals (9-5): A tough loss to close out a tough week.
10.(9) Cardinals (9-5): Not exactly a dominant performance against one of the worst teams in the Lions.
11.(12) Ravens (8-6): They are playing well enough now to outlast many wildcard contenders.
12.(14) Giants (8-6): They knew they had to make a statement and did.
13.(11) Broncos (8-6): They are slipping away and are in danger of missing the playoffs after that great start.
14.(15) Titans (7-7): They are surging and could still sneak into the postseason with a couple big wins to close out.
15.(19) Steelers (7-7): They didn’t quite play as well as they wished in December thus far, but might make some noise after all.
16.(18) Falcons (7-7): Still can get those back to back winning seasons by winning out.
17.(13) Dolphins (7-7): A few errors downed them and possibly their playoff chances.
18.(16) Jaguars (7-7): They gave the Colts a challenge and will need to be aggressive again this week against the Patriots.
19.(17) Jets (7-7): They are fading again and their postseason lives lie in two teams that could rest players if they want.
20.(21) Texans (7-7): They are still in this big AFC wildcard picture and need to win out to give themselves a great chance.
21.(22) Panthers (6-8): They have showed some dominance with another big win.
22.(20) 49ers (6-8): They made strides and will have a great chance to finish strong.
23.(27) Raiders (5-9): Another stunning win. Can they finish on a win streak?
24.(25) Bears (5-9): More offensive struggles for a team that was supposed to be better on that side of the ball.
25.(23) Bills (5-9): Couldn’t get much done against a not so great Patriots’ defense.
26.(24) Seahawks (5-9): Another bad loss in another tough season.
27.(29) Browns (3-11): They now have two wins in a row and are getting some plays from the ground game.
28.(27) Redskins (4-10): Change might be coming soon again to D.C.
29.(28) Chiefs (3-11): More disappointment for a team suffering a lot of it.
30.(31) Buccaneers (2-12): Another win has to make them feel good.
31.(30) Lions (2-12): They showed some live against the very good Cardinals.
32.(32) Rams (1-13): Not much is going good for this team on and off the field this year.
Should be an exciting week as the picture can become clearer. Will the Colts continue to pursue history or will they pull up? We shall see.
Monday, December 21, 2009
I Love the 2000s...Part 2
Now that I have chronicled many of the events and developments of the decade, it is time to start to scroll through my top ten moments/events of the decade. Since it is general and its impact isn't extremely large and wide, I will begin with the sports stories that shaped the decade. Some crossed the lines of sports and news with the realm of their importance.
10)Sports stories of the decade:
In the NFL, there were some dramatic Super Bowls that featured teams that had never been there and others who turned around themselves to achieve success. To start and end the decade, probably two of the most compelling and exciting finishes in Super Bowl history took place. Also the second to last Super Bowl of the decade had its share of excitement and ranks right up there. The St. Louis Rams and Tennessee Titans battled in one of the closest contests ever in Super Bowl XXXIV. The Rams took a touchdown lead with less than two minutes to go to only watch the Titans and QB Steve McNair drive the field to fall just one yard short of tying the game as the clock expired. On the opposite end of the decade, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals gave us just a thrilling of an ending. The Steelers took the lead fairly late in the game to see what seemed like an unstoppable WR Larry Fitzgerald this postseason catch the go ahead score for the Cardinals. Then the Steelers would respond with not much time on the clock when WR Santonio Holmes caught the game winning touchdown as time drew down. The win was the Steelers' sixth championship and gave them the most ever Super Bowls by an organization. These two games not only stand out for this past decade but in the whole history of the Super Bowl. Not to be outdone, Super Bowl XLII featuring the then undefeated New England Patriots against the underdog New York Giants. The Patriots took a late lead and looked like they were about to become the first team to finish a season at 19-0. However, in the one of the craziest catches in Super Bowl history, Giants WR David Tyree caught a drive and game saving pass and allowed QB Eli Manning to find WR Plaxico Burress later in the drive to score the game winning touchdown.
In the MLB, the New York Yankees began and ended the decade as World Series champions. The Bronx Bombers came into the Subway Series with the New York Mets in 2000 with back-to-back titles and got a third straight after a heated series that featured a bat being thrown by Yankees' pitcher Roger Clemens at Mets' catcher Mike Piazza after it broke. The Yankees would go into a long drought in terms of how they view success before finally bringing in the right players and getting contributions from big stars like 3B Alex Rodriquez. This last title came in the "New Jersey Series" as the two major cities of New York and Philadelphia battled it out for baseball and regional supremacy. The Phillies themselves had won a title for the first time in 2008 since 1980 and gave the city its first major title in 25 years. In 2001, the normally hated Yankees were fan favorites in the wake of 9/11, but the Yanks could not overcome the Arizona Diamondbacks and their two-headed pitching monster of Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling.
There were also decades long droughts that finally came to an end. Not too many franchises have suffered as much as the Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago White Sox. Two of those three teams would finally snap those droughts and one would come painfully close. The Cubs haven't won it all since 1908, the White Sox haven't won it all since 1917, and the Red Sox haven't won it all since 1918 when they sold Babe Ruth and thus began the Curse of the Bambino. All of sudden, though, in 2004, the heavens opened up and the Red Sox got a gift from above. The "idiots" fell into an 0-3 hole in the ALCS against the hated rivals, the Yankees. But behind clutch hitting by 1B/DH David Ortiz and a clutch pitching performance by Curt Schilling, the Red Sox were able to not only avoid elimination, but came back to win the series and go on to sweep the St. Louis Cardinals to win the the World Series. The curse was lifted. It was only the year before that the Yankees broke the Red Sox's hearts again with a Game 7 winning home run by 3B Aaron Boone in the ALCS. The Red Sox would ride that victory into a second one in 2007 while the Yankees had to watch empty handed. In 2005, the White Sox would join the Red Sox in breaking their own lengthy drought in a similar fashion; a sweep over an NL Central team (Houston Astros). The Cubs in 2003 were 5 outs away from a World Series birth when Steve Bartman, a fan at Wrigley Field, interfered with a foul ball that would have been caught by Cubs OF Moises Alou for an out. The rest is history as the Florida Marlins came back and won that game and the next to get to the World Series.
In the NBA, in a similar fashion as the Yankees; the Los Angeles Lakers started the decade with a dynasty and ended with another title and another possible birth of a dynasty. The Lakers with Shaq and Kobe Bryant won three straight titles from 2000-2002 and looked close to unstoppable. They would lose two Finals before getting a fourth ring in the decade under a Kobe-led team. In 2008, the Lakers fell short against the Boston Celtics who brought in Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to assist Paul Pierce and the three would help turn Boston from the worst record to the best and another championship for the franchise with the most. In 2006, Dwayne Wade with Shaq by his side led the Miami Heat to a championship after falling down 0-2 to the Dallas Mavericks. In between all these titles, the San Antonio Spurs were probably one of the most consistent teams of the decade and won title in 2003, 2005, and 2007.
In other sports news, Vince McMahon and the WWE along with NBC in 2001 attempted to launch an upstart football league called the XFL. The league folded after 1 season and its over the top theatrics and overall lack of talent didn't pay off. Also that year, the Seattle Mariners brought in Ichiro Suzuki from Japan and since he has arrived; he has been the most consistent at-bat in baseball. And in just his third season here, he broke an 83 year old record held by George Sisler for most hits in a season (262). In 2005, baseball returned to Washington DC with the Nationals coming to town. Michael Jordan unretired for the second time and went to the Washington Wizards, a team he had just become part owner of. He would play three years before retiring for good and ending one of the greatest NBA careers. Speaking of records, Dan Marino's touchdown record of 48 in one season stood for 20 years before QB Peyton Manning would throw for 49 and then three years later QB Tom Brady would throw 50. Another record that fell during the decade was the single season home run total of 70 set by Mark McGuire in 1998. McGuire broke a 47 year old year old record and his would only last for three when Bonds slugged 73 home runs. And another record, the 100 points scored in a game by Wilt Chamberlain was in danger when Kobe Bryant went off in a game in 2006 against the Toronto Raptors scoring 81 points before being pulled late in the game. In college basketball, Bobby Knight passed Dean Smith for most win in Division I with his 880 win in 2007. QB Brett Favre in 2007 would establish himself as quite possibly the best statistical quarterback ever as he claimed every major record and fell one game short of the Super Bowl. That season would drive Favre back in 2008 and again in 2009 and is having one of the best years of his celebrated career. Time will tell if he returns again next year depending on how 2009 ends. And in the racing world, Danica Patrick burst onto the scene and gave the men a run for their money and after many close calls, she finally won a race; a first for a woman in Indy racing.
Dominance would be a good word to describe Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, Lance Armstrong, Jimmie Johnson, and Michael Phelps during the decade. Woods would add to his major total including a one legged win at the 2008 U.S. Open and winning four majors in a row in 2001 generating the phrase the “Tiger Slam”. Federer would go on to win the most majors by a male tennis player and created a rivalry with Rafael Nadal that gave us one of the best Wimbledon finals ever in 2008. Armstrong was diagnosed with cancer and not only battled back from that but went onto to win seven straight Tour De Frances from 1999-2005 and made a return in 2009 and almost won an 8th. In NASCAR, the early part of the decade was marred by the sudden death of one of its major superstars in Dale Earnhardt. By the decades end, one driver would come to dominate the track. Johnson has won four straight titles and has a chance at history next year when he pursues his fifth straight title. And finally, Phelps made an impact in 2004 at Athens, but at Beijing in 2008; Phelps went 8 for 8 in his pursuit of 8 gold medals. One of the relays came down to the wire, but at the end Phelps has established himself as one of the most decorated Olympians ever. Of course not to be out done on the world stage, Usain Bolt broke the world records for the 100m and 200m and then went and broke his own records in back to back years.
In college football, there were a few games that will probably stand the test of time. In the 2002 national title game, Miami (FL) came in as champions and seemed poised to win another title, but Ohio State burst onto the scene and ran the table and squeaked by in overtime to shock the Hurricanes and much of the nation. In the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma was Goliath against Boise State playing the role of David. And in this battle, David conquered Goliath at the end and sent a statement to the BCS that the non-power schools can compete. In 2009, Utah would make a similar statement in the Sugar Bowl against Alabama. But probably the biggest game in college football of the decade was the 2006 Rose Bowl where QB Vince Young led the Texas Longhorns over the USC Trojans for the national title. Young took the game over at the end and won the game with seconds on the clock.
The decade also gave us many a sports scandal. There was Danny Almonte in 2001 who was playing in the Little League World Series, but there was much uncertainty if he was older than the minimum age for the athletes. A couple years later Sammy Sosa would come to bat and his bat would explode to expose cork in the bat. Cork is used to add power to a slugger and thus an extra advantage for a man who has been linked to steroids. Also in the baseball world, there was a split between the children of Ted Williams in 2002 when it came to what to do with their recently deceased father. Involved was aspect of freezing Williams’ head for the purpose of cloning his genes. There was also Jayson Williams, a former basketball player, who shot his driver accidentally and would cause a lengthy trial to commence and tarnish a once proud athlete. And these scandals also were seen in the Olympics as a French judge in 2002 at Salt Lake City was bought off and cost the Canadian pairs figure skating team a gold medal, which would go to the Russia pairs team. After consideration and review, both teams would take home gold medals. At the 2006 World Cup, Zidane of France would lose his control against the Italians and headbutt a member of the team and got himself ejected in the deciding game, which Italy would win. At the end of the decade, just weeks ago; Tiger Woods would find himself in a sex scandal that almost no one would have predicted. Details are still coming out as I write this.
As big as these scandals were or might be in Tiger Woods’ case, there were even bigger ones and issues linked to sports in the 2000s. In the basketball world, Kobe Bryant had his own sex scandal to deal with in 2003 when he was charged with rape from a visit to Colorado. The case would drag on and be a distraction for Bryant and the Lakers. However, this was nothing compared to what Tim Donaghy and other referees did. They threw games and changes the outcomes of contests based on making calls that favored the way they wanted the game to go. This has left a black eye on the NBA and it can still be felt moving into the next decade. But of course, the decade also had the “Malice in the Palace” when a Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers game broke into a brawl late in the 4th quarter. Multiple players were suspended and punished including Ron Artest getting a 72 game suspension. It has been five years since the incident, but it still stands out among many who follow the NBA and sports.
There were also miscellaneous issues and scandals involving sports and athletes. One such was the continued uproar over the BCS system as for the most part it failed at getting things exactly right. Unless we see to undefeated teams at the end face each other then there will always be dispute. In a sad story, Pat Tillman gave away guaranteed money and NFL fame for the duty to his country. Unfortunately, he lost his life in what was a friendly fire accident and then a cover up was revealed. The whole situation is just not what you want to see involving a man who saw a better calling for himself. The NHL also had its problems when they were forced into a lockout in 2004-2005. The league already was struggling to gather a strong fan base compared to other sports and then they took a step backwards with the lockout and disputes. League Commissioner Gary Bettman has made questionable calls under his tenure at times and luckily for him young stars like Sidney Crosby have garnered some interest again. Lastly, a scandal came over Duke University and their lacrosse team in 2006. Three players were falsely accused of raping an exotic dancer and it was a long drawn out process that hurt the men and team involved.
But no scandal and cloud was bigger than the one that engulfed major league baseball for much of the decade. Steroids. Enough said. From the Mitchell Report that listed 104 names linked to steroid use and the slow revelations that came out. The names were not the also-rans and has-beens of MLB. Sosa, McGuire, Clemens, Manny Ramirez, Ortiz, A-Rod, Palmiero, Bonds, etc. We went from seeing maybe 35-40 home runs a year to seeing 45-50 a year being the average for the top home run hitter. It will truly be hard to tell how much abuse of illegal substances was going on and personally I blame the major officials in charge for causing their own mess and trying to look like it wasn't there fault. Rules and regulations were not in place until a few years ago and tests are in place and we see occasional individuals testing positive, but who know how many guys would have been caught in the early part of the decade if these tests were in place. Would guys have wanted to do what they did? The speculation is what is killing baseball and what's done has been done.
It was a decade that gave us joy and sadness in sports. It gave us a lot to think about and a lot to celebrate depending where your loyalty is. It gave us great moments and lasting sports legacies. There certainly was no shortage of great moments and news worthy stories.
Next I will explore the elections in 2004 and 2006. In 2004, there was a close presidential race and in 2006, we saw a political shift occur.
10)Sports stories of the decade:
In the NFL, there were some dramatic Super Bowls that featured teams that had never been there and others who turned around themselves to achieve success. To start and end the decade, probably two of the most compelling and exciting finishes in Super Bowl history took place. Also the second to last Super Bowl of the decade had its share of excitement and ranks right up there. The St. Louis Rams and Tennessee Titans battled in one of the closest contests ever in Super Bowl XXXIV. The Rams took a touchdown lead with less than two minutes to go to only watch the Titans and QB Steve McNair drive the field to fall just one yard short of tying the game as the clock expired. On the opposite end of the decade, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals gave us just a thrilling of an ending. The Steelers took the lead fairly late in the game to see what seemed like an unstoppable WR Larry Fitzgerald this postseason catch the go ahead score for the Cardinals. Then the Steelers would respond with not much time on the clock when WR Santonio Holmes caught the game winning touchdown as time drew down. The win was the Steelers' sixth championship and gave them the most ever Super Bowls by an organization. These two games not only stand out for this past decade but in the whole history of the Super Bowl. Not to be outdone, Super Bowl XLII featuring the then undefeated New England Patriots against the underdog New York Giants. The Patriots took a late lead and looked like they were about to become the first team to finish a season at 19-0. However, in the one of the craziest catches in Super Bowl history, Giants WR David Tyree caught a drive and game saving pass and allowed QB Eli Manning to find WR Plaxico Burress later in the drive to score the game winning touchdown.
In the MLB, the New York Yankees began and ended the decade as World Series champions. The Bronx Bombers came into the Subway Series with the New York Mets in 2000 with back-to-back titles and got a third straight after a heated series that featured a bat being thrown by Yankees' pitcher Roger Clemens at Mets' catcher Mike Piazza after it broke. The Yankees would go into a long drought in terms of how they view success before finally bringing in the right players and getting contributions from big stars like 3B Alex Rodriquez. This last title came in the "New Jersey Series" as the two major cities of New York and Philadelphia battled it out for baseball and regional supremacy. The Phillies themselves had won a title for the first time in 2008 since 1980 and gave the city its first major title in 25 years. In 2001, the normally hated Yankees were fan favorites in the wake of 9/11, but the Yanks could not overcome the Arizona Diamondbacks and their two-headed pitching monster of Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling.
There were also decades long droughts that finally came to an end. Not too many franchises have suffered as much as the Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago White Sox. Two of those three teams would finally snap those droughts and one would come painfully close. The Cubs haven't won it all since 1908, the White Sox haven't won it all since 1917, and the Red Sox haven't won it all since 1918 when they sold Babe Ruth and thus began the Curse of the Bambino. All of sudden, though, in 2004, the heavens opened up and the Red Sox got a gift from above. The "idiots" fell into an 0-3 hole in the ALCS against the hated rivals, the Yankees. But behind clutch hitting by 1B/DH David Ortiz and a clutch pitching performance by Curt Schilling, the Red Sox were able to not only avoid elimination, but came back to win the series and go on to sweep the St. Louis Cardinals to win the the World Series. The curse was lifted. It was only the year before that the Yankees broke the Red Sox's hearts again with a Game 7 winning home run by 3B Aaron Boone in the ALCS. The Red Sox would ride that victory into a second one in 2007 while the Yankees had to watch empty handed. In 2005, the White Sox would join the Red Sox in breaking their own lengthy drought in a similar fashion; a sweep over an NL Central team (Houston Astros). The Cubs in 2003 were 5 outs away from a World Series birth when Steve Bartman, a fan at Wrigley Field, interfered with a foul ball that would have been caught by Cubs OF Moises Alou for an out. The rest is history as the Florida Marlins came back and won that game and the next to get to the World Series.
In the NBA, in a similar fashion as the Yankees; the Los Angeles Lakers started the decade with a dynasty and ended with another title and another possible birth of a dynasty. The Lakers with Shaq and Kobe Bryant won three straight titles from 2000-2002 and looked close to unstoppable. They would lose two Finals before getting a fourth ring in the decade under a Kobe-led team. In 2008, the Lakers fell short against the Boston Celtics who brought in Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to assist Paul Pierce and the three would help turn Boston from the worst record to the best and another championship for the franchise with the most. In 2006, Dwayne Wade with Shaq by his side led the Miami Heat to a championship after falling down 0-2 to the Dallas Mavericks. In between all these titles, the San Antonio Spurs were probably one of the most consistent teams of the decade and won title in 2003, 2005, and 2007.
In other sports news, Vince McMahon and the WWE along with NBC in 2001 attempted to launch an upstart football league called the XFL. The league folded after 1 season and its over the top theatrics and overall lack of talent didn't pay off. Also that year, the Seattle Mariners brought in Ichiro Suzuki from Japan and since he has arrived; he has been the most consistent at-bat in baseball. And in just his third season here, he broke an 83 year old record held by George Sisler for most hits in a season (262). In 2005, baseball returned to Washington DC with the Nationals coming to town. Michael Jordan unretired for the second time and went to the Washington Wizards, a team he had just become part owner of. He would play three years before retiring for good and ending one of the greatest NBA careers. Speaking of records, Dan Marino's touchdown record of 48 in one season stood for 20 years before QB Peyton Manning would throw for 49 and then three years later QB Tom Brady would throw 50. Another record that fell during the decade was the single season home run total of 70 set by Mark McGuire in 1998. McGuire broke a 47 year old year old record and his would only last for three when Bonds slugged 73 home runs. And another record, the 100 points scored in a game by Wilt Chamberlain was in danger when Kobe Bryant went off in a game in 2006 against the Toronto Raptors scoring 81 points before being pulled late in the game. In college basketball, Bobby Knight passed Dean Smith for most win in Division I with his 880 win in 2007. QB Brett Favre in 2007 would establish himself as quite possibly the best statistical quarterback ever as he claimed every major record and fell one game short of the Super Bowl. That season would drive Favre back in 2008 and again in 2009 and is having one of the best years of his celebrated career. Time will tell if he returns again next year depending on how 2009 ends. And in the racing world, Danica Patrick burst onto the scene and gave the men a run for their money and after many close calls, she finally won a race; a first for a woman in Indy racing.
Dominance would be a good word to describe Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, Lance Armstrong, Jimmie Johnson, and Michael Phelps during the decade. Woods would add to his major total including a one legged win at the 2008 U.S. Open and winning four majors in a row in 2001 generating the phrase the “Tiger Slam”. Federer would go on to win the most majors by a male tennis player and created a rivalry with Rafael Nadal that gave us one of the best Wimbledon finals ever in 2008. Armstrong was diagnosed with cancer and not only battled back from that but went onto to win seven straight Tour De Frances from 1999-2005 and made a return in 2009 and almost won an 8th. In NASCAR, the early part of the decade was marred by the sudden death of one of its major superstars in Dale Earnhardt. By the decades end, one driver would come to dominate the track. Johnson has won four straight titles and has a chance at history next year when he pursues his fifth straight title. And finally, Phelps made an impact in 2004 at Athens, but at Beijing in 2008; Phelps went 8 for 8 in his pursuit of 8 gold medals. One of the relays came down to the wire, but at the end Phelps has established himself as one of the most decorated Olympians ever. Of course not to be out done on the world stage, Usain Bolt broke the world records for the 100m and 200m and then went and broke his own records in back to back years.
In college football, there were a few games that will probably stand the test of time. In the 2002 national title game, Miami (FL) came in as champions and seemed poised to win another title, but Ohio State burst onto the scene and ran the table and squeaked by in overtime to shock the Hurricanes and much of the nation. In the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma was Goliath against Boise State playing the role of David. And in this battle, David conquered Goliath at the end and sent a statement to the BCS that the non-power schools can compete. In 2009, Utah would make a similar statement in the Sugar Bowl against Alabama. But probably the biggest game in college football of the decade was the 2006 Rose Bowl where QB Vince Young led the Texas Longhorns over the USC Trojans for the national title. Young took the game over at the end and won the game with seconds on the clock.
The decade also gave us many a sports scandal. There was Danny Almonte in 2001 who was playing in the Little League World Series, but there was much uncertainty if he was older than the minimum age for the athletes. A couple years later Sammy Sosa would come to bat and his bat would explode to expose cork in the bat. Cork is used to add power to a slugger and thus an extra advantage for a man who has been linked to steroids. Also in the baseball world, there was a split between the children of Ted Williams in 2002 when it came to what to do with their recently deceased father. Involved was aspect of freezing Williams’ head for the purpose of cloning his genes. There was also Jayson Williams, a former basketball player, who shot his driver accidentally and would cause a lengthy trial to commence and tarnish a once proud athlete. And these scandals also were seen in the Olympics as a French judge in 2002 at Salt Lake City was bought off and cost the Canadian pairs figure skating team a gold medal, which would go to the Russia pairs team. After consideration and review, both teams would take home gold medals. At the 2006 World Cup, Zidane of France would lose his control against the Italians and headbutt a member of the team and got himself ejected in the deciding game, which Italy would win. At the end of the decade, just weeks ago; Tiger Woods would find himself in a sex scandal that almost no one would have predicted. Details are still coming out as I write this.
As big as these scandals were or might be in Tiger Woods’ case, there were even bigger ones and issues linked to sports in the 2000s. In the basketball world, Kobe Bryant had his own sex scandal to deal with in 2003 when he was charged with rape from a visit to Colorado. The case would drag on and be a distraction for Bryant and the Lakers. However, this was nothing compared to what Tim Donaghy and other referees did. They threw games and changes the outcomes of contests based on making calls that favored the way they wanted the game to go. This has left a black eye on the NBA and it can still be felt moving into the next decade. But of course, the decade also had the “Malice in the Palace” when a Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers game broke into a brawl late in the 4th quarter. Multiple players were suspended and punished including Ron Artest getting a 72 game suspension. It has been five years since the incident, but it still stands out among many who follow the NBA and sports.
There were also miscellaneous issues and scandals involving sports and athletes. One such was the continued uproar over the BCS system as for the most part it failed at getting things exactly right. Unless we see to undefeated teams at the end face each other then there will always be dispute. In a sad story, Pat Tillman gave away guaranteed money and NFL fame for the duty to his country. Unfortunately, he lost his life in what was a friendly fire accident and then a cover up was revealed. The whole situation is just not what you want to see involving a man who saw a better calling for himself. The NHL also had its problems when they were forced into a lockout in 2004-2005. The league already was struggling to gather a strong fan base compared to other sports and then they took a step backwards with the lockout and disputes. League Commissioner Gary Bettman has made questionable calls under his tenure at times and luckily for him young stars like Sidney Crosby have garnered some interest again. Lastly, a scandal came over Duke University and their lacrosse team in 2006. Three players were falsely accused of raping an exotic dancer and it was a long drawn out process that hurt the men and team involved.
But no scandal and cloud was bigger than the one that engulfed major league baseball for much of the decade. Steroids. Enough said. From the Mitchell Report that listed 104 names linked to steroid use and the slow revelations that came out. The names were not the also-rans and has-beens of MLB. Sosa, McGuire, Clemens, Manny Ramirez, Ortiz, A-Rod, Palmiero, Bonds, etc. We went from seeing maybe 35-40 home runs a year to seeing 45-50 a year being the average for the top home run hitter. It will truly be hard to tell how much abuse of illegal substances was going on and personally I blame the major officials in charge for causing their own mess and trying to look like it wasn't there fault. Rules and regulations were not in place until a few years ago and tests are in place and we see occasional individuals testing positive, but who know how many guys would have been caught in the early part of the decade if these tests were in place. Would guys have wanted to do what they did? The speculation is what is killing baseball and what's done has been done.
It was a decade that gave us joy and sadness in sports. It gave us a lot to think about and a lot to celebrate depending where your loyalty is. It gave us great moments and lasting sports legacies. There certainly was no shortage of great moments and news worthy stories.
Next I will explore the elections in 2004 and 2006. In 2004, there was a close presidential race and in 2006, we saw a political shift occur.
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