1990s

The economic prosperity and technological advancement of the 1990s were counterbalanced by a sharp rise in terrorism. Following a military and diplomatic triumph in the first Persian Gulf War, Americans focused largely on domestic issues. Despite enhanced communications through the Internet, the world was slow to react to growing humanitarian crises in Africa and the Balkans. Grunge and hip-hop dominated the music scene. The last decade of the 20th century embodied Americans' excitement and fears for the future.