College Park

On September 25, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited the University of Maryland in College Park. This visit was part of his efforts to promote the New Deal and governmental initiatives to combat the Great Depression. During his visit, he addressed students and faculty, highlighting the importance of education, research, and public service in recovery efforts. Roosevelt's visit underscored the university's growing reputation and its role in national policy discussions during a critical period in American history.

Following the launch of Sputnik by the Soviet Union in October 1957, there was an increased emphasis on scientific research and education in the United States. The University of Maryland in College Park responded by expanding its programs in physics, engineering, and space sciences to meet national security and technological needs. This period marked a pivotal moment in the university's history as it positioned itself as a leading research institution prompting investments in new facilities and recruitment of prominent scholars.

On October 25, 1969, the University of Maryland was the site of a considerable anti-Vietnam War protest. Students and activists gathered on the college grounds to voice their opposition to the U.S. involvement in Vietnam as part of the larger national Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam movement. The protest drew significant attention and coverage, being one of the many demonstrations across American university campuses during the 1960s and 1970s. These events played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and policy regarding the Vietnam War.

The College Park Aviation Museum celebrates the rich history of aviation at the College Park Airport, which is the world's oldest continuously operating airport. On October 9, 1976, the museum officially opened to the public, featuring numerous aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits dedicated to the story of flight. The museum plays an important educational role and attracts visitors and aviation enthusiasts who explore the legacy of the Wright brothers and other pioneers in aviation.

On March 28, 1980, the College Park Metro Station opened as part of the Washington Metro Green Line. The station provided an essential link to College Park, significantly improving transportation options to and from the University of Maryland and the surrounding community. The opening of the station was a crucial development in the region, facilitating easier commutes for students, faculty, and residents, and also boosting local businesses and regional connectivity.

One year after the September 11 terrorist attacks, the University of Maryland held a day of remembrance on September 11, 2002. The ceremony included a candlelight vigil and reflections on the events that shook the nation. Students, faculty, and community members gathered to pay their respects and honor the memory of those who lost their lives. This event was a significant moment for the college community as it united in grief and contemplation, considering the implications of the attacks especially given the school's proximity to Washington, D.C.

Maryland Day is the University of Maryland's popular open house event that provides visitors of all ages with a day full of learning, exploring, and fun. On April 23, 2006, the event was celebrated with various exhibits, performances, and demonstrations showcasing the university's innovations, creativity, and history. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in hundreds of activities that highlighted research, arts, and the sciences across the expansive campus.

On August 24, 2011, residents of College Park experienced the powerful aftershocks of a magnitude 5.8 earthquake centered in Virginia. This earthquake was felt across a large part of the Eastern United States, including College Park. It was one of the most powerful earthquakes to be felt on the East Coast in decades, causing minor damage in the area and an evacuation of several buildings at the University of Maryland. The event led to increased awareness and discussion on seismic activities in the region.

On August 15, 2018, the city of College Park declared itself a sanctuary city, signaling its commitment to protect immigrant residents from federal immigration enforcement actions. This move was part of a larger national debate on immigration policies and the role of local jurisdictions in offering protections and safe havens to undocumented immigrants. The decision was welcomed by many in the community but also sparked controversy and discussion about the legal and social implications of such declarations.

In the wake of George Floyd's death in May 2020, College Park was among many cities across the United States that saw Black Lives Matter protests. Starting on June 1, 2020, residents marched through the city demanding justice and police reform. The protests were largely peaceful and were part of a broader national and global movement calling for an end to racial discrimination and police violence against African Americans. The events sparked conversations on campus and the surrounding community about race relations and justice.