The Winter Olympics in Albertville see a unified Germany and a divided Soviet Union competing under a loose confederation called the United Team. Laurel L. Wilkening is inaugurated as chancellor. Newly opened Arroyo Vista Housing is partially evacuated as wildfires approach. The World Trade center is bombed by Islamic fundamentalists. The North American Free Trade Association is signed.
Wildfires devastate parts of Southern California.
A standoff between the FBI, ATF agent and Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas ends in a tragic fire. The new Science Library opens. Riots break out in Chiapas, Mexico. The Northridge earthquake destroyed apartment buildings and freeways. A historic accord is signed between the PLO and Israel.