Atlanta

The Capture of Atlanta was a significant event during the American Civil War. Union forces under the command of General William T. Sherman captured the city of Atlanta, Georgia on September 2, 1864. This victory was a major turning point in the war as it bolstered Northern morale and helped ensure President Abraham Lincoln's re-election. The fall of Atlanta disrupted Confederate supply lines and marked the beginning of Sherman's famous "March to the Sea." The event is remembered for its strategic importance in the Union war effort and its impact on the civilian population of Atlanta.

On April 20, 1868, Atlanta was designated as the capital of the state of Georgia, replacing the previous capital, Milledgeville. This decision was part of the reconstruction efforts following the American Civil War. Atlanta's strategic location as a transportation hub, with its extensive rail connections, made it an ideal choice for the state capital. The move to Atlanta signified a new era in the state's development and marked the rise of Atlanta as a major economic and cultural center in the southeastern United States.

Coca-Cola, the iconic soft drink, was invented by John Stith Pemberton in Atlanta, Georgia, on May 8, 1886. Originally formulated as a medicinal tonic, Coca-Cola was first sold at Jacob's Pharmacy in Atlanta. Pemberton's bookkeeper, Frank M. Robinson, is credited with naming the beverage and creating its distinctive script logo. Over time, Coca-Cola became a globally recognized brand, dominating the soft drink market. The invention of Coca-Cola is a notable event in Atlanta's history, highlighting the city's role in the beverage industry and American culture.

The Atlanta Race Riot of 1906 was a racially motivated conflict that occurred in Atlanta, Georgia, from September 22 to September 24, 1906. The riot began as a result of tension between white and black residents, fueled by sensationalized newspaper reports of alleged crimes committed by African Americans. Over the course of three days, violence erupted on the streets, leading to the deaths of several African Americans and injuries to many others. The riot resulted in significant damage to businesses and property in black neighborhoods and highlighted racial tensions in the southern United States during the early 20th century.

On October 19, 1960, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested during a protest in Atlanta, Georgia. The arrest occurred after King and a group of activists organized a sit-in at Rich's Department Store to protest racial segregation. King's arrest drew national attention, as the civil rights movement was gaining momentum across the United States. The incident highlighted the struggles for racial equality and the efforts of civil rights leaders to challenge discriminatory practices. King's arrest and subsequent release attracted widespread media coverage and had significant implications for the civil rights movement.

In June 1965, Major League Baseball approved the move of the Milwaukee Braves to Atlanta, Georgia, where they became the Atlanta Braves. The Braves played their first season in Atlanta in 1966, marking the city's emergence as a major sports hub. The team's arrival coincided with the construction of Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium, providing the city with a professional sports venue. Over the years, the Braves franchise became one of the most successful in baseball, noted for its championships and legendary players like Hank Aaron. The move of the Braves was a pivotal event in expanding Atlanta's reputation as a sports city.

On April 9, 1968, the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took place in Atlanta, Georgia, five days after his assassination in Memphis, Tennessee. The funeral was held at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King had served as co-pastor. Thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects, and millions more watched the televised proceedings. The event was attended by numerous civil rights leaders, political figures, and dignitaries from around the world. The funeral was a significant moment in American history, symbolizing the profound impact of King's work on the civil rights movement and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport, now known as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, officially opened its doors on October 8, 1974. The airport quickly became a major hub for air travel in the southeastern United States and one of the busiest airports in the world. Its expansion over the years has reinforced Atlanta's status as a key transportation and logistics center. The airport's development has played a crucial role in the growth of the city's economy by facilitating both domestic and international travel and trade. Hartsfield-Jackson continues to be a pivotal infrastructure asset for Atlanta.

The 1996 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXVI Olympiad, were held in Atlanta, Georgia from July 19 to August 4, 1996. Atlanta was selected as the host city in 1990, marking the centennial of the modern Olympic Games. The event featured athletes from around the world competing in various sports. The games were notable for the debut of several new sports, improvements in athletic performance, and memorable moments such as the Olympic victory of American sprinter Michael Johnson. Despite some logistical challenges, the Olympics were a major international event that showcased Atlanta on the global stage.

Atlanta United FC won the MLS Cup on December 20, 2017, marking the team's first championship in Major League Soccer. The team defeated the Portland Timbers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with a 2-0 victory. This win was a significant achievement for the franchise, which was established only a few years prior in 2014. The victory highlighted the rapid rise of soccer popularity in Atlanta and showcased the city's passionate fan base. Atlanta United's success helped solidify Atlanta's reputation as a vibrant sports city and contributed to the growth of soccer in the United States.