A Breakthrough Year for Same-Sex Marriage: In 2013, the Supreme Court and several states weigh in on same-sex marriage. With more states legalizing same-sex marriage and two key Supreme Court rulings, 2013 was a breakthrough year for gay marriage in the United States. While other countries like Franceand Russiafaced fierce protests over gay marriage laws in 2013, a shift in public opinion happened in the United States. According to a July 2013 Gallup Poll, 52% of Americans would support a law that would legalize same-sex marriage in all 50 states. ABC News had similar results with their poll when 55% of Americans said they support same-sex couples' right to tie the knot. A 2013 Quinnipiac University poll found that 54% of American Catholics supported same-sex marriage. Even the newly crowned Pope Francisspoke up for the LGBT community in 2013. In a September interview published in international Jesuit journals, he said, "A person once asked me, in a provocative manner, if I approved of homosexuality. I replied with another question: 'Tell me: When God looks at a gay person, does he endorse the existence of this person with love, or reject and condemn this person?' We must always consider the person." Policy Shift for Republicans On February 27, 2013, several Republicans backed a legal brief asking the Supreme Court to rule that same-sex marriage was a constitutional right. It was a policy shift for many party members. More than 100 Republicans were listed on the brief, including former New HampshireCongressman Charles Bass and Beth Myers, a key adviser to Mitt Romneyduring his 2012 presidential campaign. The brief was filed as the U.S. Supreme Court prepared to consider overturning Proposition 8, the Californiainitiative banning same-sex marriage, as well as overturning the Defense of Marriage Act, a federal law passed during Bill Clinton's presidency, which defined marriage as between a man and a woman. On March 26, 2013, the Supreme Court began two days of historical debate over gay marriage. Their decision would be announced in June 2013. The Supreme Court Weighs In On June 26, 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was unconstitutional. In a 5 to 4 vote, the court ruled that DOMA violated the rights of gays and lesbians. The court also ruled that the law interfered with the states' rights to define marriage. It was the first case ever on the issue of gay marriage for the Supreme Court. Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. voted against striking it down as did Antonin Scalia, Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas. However, conservative-leaning Justice Anthony M. Kennedy voted with his liberal colleagues to overturn DOMA. On the same day, the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage opponents in California did not have standing to appeal the lower court ruling that overturned the state's ban, known as Proposition 8. This ruling would most likely remove legal battles for same-sex couples wishing to marry in California. However, the ruling did not directly affect other states. More States Begin Issuing Same-Sex Marriage Licenses During May 2013, Rhode Island, Delawareand Minnesotalegalized Same-Sex Marriage. On May 2, after same-sex marriage legislation passed in both houses of Rhode Island's legislature, Governor Lincoln Chafee signed the new law. Less than a week later, Governor Jack Markell signed the Civil Marriage Equality and Religious Freedom act, legalizing same-sex marriage for the state of Delaware. On May 13, 2013, in Minnesota, the State Senate voted 37 to 30 in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage, a week after the House voted in favor of the new law. Governor Mark Dayton, a supporter of same-sex marriage, signed the bill the following afternoon. In August 2013, Minnesota and Rhode Island began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. To see a list of all the states that have legalized same-sex marriage, go here. With public opinion shifting and so many breakthroughs in 2013, other states seemed poised to join that list. For example, as the summer of 2013 ended, several counties in New Mexicobegan issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

The 2013 Boston Marathon Tragedy: Three people were killed and hundreds injured after multiple bombs exploded during the Boston Marathon. On Monday, April 15, 2013, multiple bombs exploded during the Boston Marathon. The bombs went off at 2:50 in the afternoon as runners finished the race. At least three people were killed. One was an eight year old boy. More than 170 people were injured. The first explosion happened on Boylston Street close to the finish line. The second blast came about ten seconds later, 50 to 100 yards away. Another explosion happened during the afternoon at the JFK Library, but officials soon confirmed that incident was not connected. A U.S. government official said that neither the Boston police nor the FBI received any threats of an attack leading up to the marathon. Parents of the 2012 Newtown, Conn., shooting victims were in attendance near the finish line, sitting in the VIP section of the bleachers, but none of them were injured. President Obamasaid from the White House briefing room, "We still do not know who did this or why, and people shouldn't jump to conclusions before we have all the facts, but make no mistake: We will get to the bottom of this. Any responsible individuals, any responsible groups will feel the full weight of justice." The Search for Suspects On April 18, 2013, three days after the marathon bombing, the FBI released photos and video of two suspects in the hope that the public could help identify them. "Somebody out there knows these individuals as friends, neighbors, co-workers, or family members. Though it may be difficult, the nation is counting on those with information to come forward and provide it to us," said FBI special agent Richard DesLauriers upon the release of the photos and video. On the same day the images were released, President Obama spoke at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston's South End. After the service, both the president and First lady Michelle Obamavisited those injured in the explosions who were still recovering in the various hospitals throughout Boston. Boston Lockdown Just hours after the FBI released the images, the two suspects robbed a gas station in Central Square then shot and killed a MIT police officer in his car. Afterwards, the two men carjacked a SUV and told the driver that they had set off the explosions at the marathon. Police pursued the vehicle into Watertown. During the shootout, a MBTA officer was shot and one of the suspects, identified as Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was killed. A suicide vest was found on his body. The other suspect, Dzhokhar A. Tsarnaev, age 19, remained at large for several hours, causing a massive manhunt and lockdown for all of Boston, Cambridge, and many other surrounding communities. The manhunt continued throughout Friday, April 19, 2013, until he was found alive, but seriously injured, hiding in a boat behind a house in Watertown. The two suspects were brothers and had been living together on Norfolk Street in Cambridge. They had lived in the U.S. for about a decade, but were from an area near Chechnya, a region in Russia. More Arrests Made On May 1, 2013, three additional arrests were made in connection to the Boston Marathon bombing. Dias Kadyrbayev and Azamat Tazhayakov were arrested and charged with concealing evidence during a federal investigation. Robel K. Phillipos was charged with lying to impede the federal investigation. All three were close friends with Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. If found guilty, Kadyrbayev and Tazhayakov could receive five years in prison. Phillipos could receive eight years. On July 10, 2013, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev made his first public court appearance in Boston. His arraignment was for 30 charges, including four murder charges as well as using and conspiring to use a weapon of mass destruction. He pled not guilty to all charges. Tsarnaev could face the death penalty if convicted. In August 2013,Rolling Stonemagazine put Dzhokhar Tsarnaev on its cover with the headline, "The Bomber: How a Popular, Promising Student was Failed by His Family, Fell Into Radical Islam and Became a Monster." The cover story was controversial. Retailers, such as CVS Pharmacy, refused to sell the issue. BJ's Wholesale Club went one step further and announced that it would not sell any future issues of the magazine as well.

The Trials of Bradley Manning: After being sentenced to 35 years in prison, Manning makes a statement. On August 21, 2013, Private First Class Bradley Manningwas sentenced to 35 years in prison for leaking over 700,000 U.S. government files to WikiLeaks, files containing classified U.S. military activities in Iraqand Afghanistan. It was the longest sentence ever given in the U.S. involving leaked government data to the public. He also received a reduction in rank, a dishonorable discharge and would no longer receive any pay or allowances from the U.S. military. The charges against him included stealing government property, multiple counts of disobeying orders, violating the Espionage Act as well as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Manning, age 25, could be up for parole in seven years. Manning would serve his sentence in the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth. Immediately after the verdict, Reporters Without Borders, a non-profit organization based inFrance , condemned ...administration has been waging an unprecedented offensive that has ignored the public interest in their revelations. It also threatens the future of investigative journalism, which risks finding its sources drying up," Reporters Without Borders said. The day after the sentencing, Manning announced that he was female and wanted to be referred to from now on as Chelsea. The announcement was made during an appearance on the Today show by David E. Coombs, Manning's defense lawyer. Coombs made the announcement by reading Manning's written statement. In the statement, Manning wrote: "As I transition into this next phase of my life, I want everyone to know the real me. I am Chelsea Manning. I am a female. Given the way that I feel, and have felt since childhood, I want to begin hormone therapy as soon as possible. I hope that you will support me in this transition. I also request that, starting today, you refer to me by my new name and use the feminine pronoun." In the days following, Coombs remained optimistic and told theNew York Timesthat he hoped the military prison officials would voluntarily provide hormone treatment without a court order. However, under U.S. military policy, it may be impossible for Manning to begin transitioning while in military prison. In response to Manning's statement, Kimberly Lewis, a spokesperson for the Fort Leavenworth all-male military prison, said, "The Army does not provide hormone therapy or sex-reassignment surgery for gender identity disorder."

Vacated Michigan Central Station, 2009 Photo Credit: Albert Duce Detroit Hustles Harder sticker Detroit Down, but Not Out In 2013, Detroit files for bankruptcy and fires up its residents. On July 18, 2013, Detroitbecame the nation's largest public sector bankruptcy. Before the motor city filed, just over 60 cities, counties, towns and villages had filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 9, the procedure used by municipalities in courts since the mid-1950s. Detroit's bankruptcy filing came with the approval of MichiganGovernor Rick Snyder. In a press conference the following day, Snyder said, "Now's our opportunity to stop 60 years of decline. How long had this been going on and people were kicking the can down the road and not doing something? We're doing something." The bankruptcy was filed by Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr whose job it is to find a way to resolve Detroit's financial situation, which includes an estimated $18 million in total outstanding liabilities. Orr was appointed emergency financial manager by Gov. Snyder, an appointment opposed by Detroit residents in a November 2012 referendum. In the press conference with Snyder, Orr said that Detroit needs to cut its debt to restore services. "Does anybody think it's OK to have 40-year-old trees growing through the roofs of dilapidated houses," he said. Part of Orr's plan, to reorganize the city and cut the debt down to $2 billion, would mean that retirees, bond holders and investors would receive only 17% of what they are owed. Lights Out in Motor City Once the country's fourth-largest city and the world's automobile capital, Detroit has gone from a city of 1.8 million in 1950 to 700,000 people in 2013. Tens of thousands of buildings, including the historic Michigan Central Station, have been abandoned and lots vacated. Streets have gone unlit. Detroit residents got fired up about the bankruptcy filing, which meant pension cuts for city workers and bonds worth only pennies on the dollar. A bankruptcy filing also put the city's assets at risk, including the hockey arena and city zoo, which could be sold off. Detroiters Get Fired Up The Detroit Fire Fighters Association released a group statement that said it was "very disappointed" over the city's bankruptcy filing. The group added, "We are working with other Detroit employees to form a unified coalition to address the financial concerns of Detroit. Fire Fighters will continue to protect and serve during this difficult time, regardless of the economic challenges." Detroit resident Katherine Mingle wasn't surprised when the city filed for bankruptcy. "Since Rick Snyder was elected, he has implemented a number of policies that seem to center on the financial solvency of Michigan. Passing laws like the Right to Work legislation are particularly offensive to me as someone who takes pride in the accomplishments of the labor movement. As an educator, I have taught social studies to kids with an earnest love for the American ideals of democracy and civic involvement. It becomes really hard to instill those values when our elected officials in city government are being usurped by emergency managers." Mingle added that the media's handling of the bankruptcy filing didn't help. "Worst of all, it is another story for the national media to exploit what is seen as the decay of this great city. It's rare these days to find the media reporting on the positive things going on here," she said. Detroit Hustles Harder In fact, the bankruptcy and situation in Detroit presents a unique opportunity for the city to reinvent itself. As Mingle explains, "There is a lot going on here in terms of community organization, development, arts and culture. And it is fueled by the masses of young people moving to the city for cheap rent and the opportunity to build things. The residents I know are motivated, collaborative and proud. I don't know that people would be so fiercely determined to make positive changes if things weren't as bad as they are now." In January 2013, city leaders presented a 347-page plan called "Detroit Future City." The plan included turning vacated lands into parks, landscapes and commercial sections. Many point to the downtown area along Woodward Avenue as a guide. Thousands of people, a lot of them young, have moved into that area, which includes a new gourmet coffee shop, a faux beach, bushes landscaped in the shape of dogs, and music playing along the street. Other U.S. cities such as Pittsburghand Bostonredeveloped after a period of depopulation, although neither one of those cities faced the extreme financial situation that Detroit is in now. However, Mingle says Detroit is up for the challenge, "There's a slogan you see around town a lot. 'Detroit Hustles Harder.' I like it because it's true. We work hard and we work together. Maybe it's only because one person can't do it alone here. But the point is, Detroiters are not giving up. Bankruptcy is just another hurdle. And we are climbing it."

The NSA, Edward Snowden, and Surveillance (part 2 of 2): On July 3, the plane carrying Bolivian president Evo Morales from Russia back to Bolivia was diverted because several European nations, believing that Snowden was on board the plane, refused Morales access to their airspace. The move created a diplomatic furor, and Morales called the incident an "affront to all [Latin] America," and the vice president, Alvaro Garcia, said Morales was "being kidnapped by imperialism." On July 17, Snowden filed a temporary asylum request in Russia after being holed up in the transit area of Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport for more than three weeks. Putin reiterated that Snowden must do no further harm to the United States, telling reporters, "We warned Mr. Snowden that any action by him that could cause damage to Russian-American relations is unacceptable to us. Bilateral relations, in my opinion, are far more important than squabbles about the activities of the secret services." On August 1, Russia granted Snowden asylum for one year, despite strong urging from the U.S. not to do so. Snowden's asylum further eroded the relationship between Washington and Moscow and ratcheted up tension between Obama and Putin. President Obama canceled a September summit meeting with Putin. Here are the major revelations about the NSA's surveillance program made public by Snowden. The NSA monitors the credit card transactions and customer records of three major phone service providers: Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint Nextel. Since 2010, the NSA has been analyzing meta data from phone and email logs and supplementing that information with data from other sources, such as GPS locators, bank codes, passenger manifests from airlines and other transportation databases, Facebook, and voter registration logs, to create graphs of the social connections of individuals. The graphs can show who people communicate and travel with, their location, and other information. Through a program called PRISM, companies, such as Facebook and Google, have cooperated with the U.S. government in surveillance operations. Britain's Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) had access to data gleaned through PRISM. Snowden told theSouth China Morning Postthat the NSA has been collecting information about individuals and institutions in Hong Kong and China since 2009 using PRISM. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court ruled that correspondence involving a U.S. citizen gleaned when the NSA was targeting non-U.S. citizens can be analyzed and kept if it was "inadvertently" acquired without a warrant. Through a program called Bullrun, the NSA has cracked internet encryption programs used by many companies to protect customers' privacy. Microsoft cooperated with the NSA, helping the agency to override the company's encryption mechanisms that protect the privacy of customers. The collaboration gave the government access to correspondence sent via Outlook.com, Hotmail, and Skype. Britain's GCHQ created the Tempora program in which the government monitored internet, email, IM, and phone activity using probes that were placed on fiber-optic cables. Internet content collected via the probes could be stored for three days and meta data for up to 30 days. Analysts at the NSA had access to this information. The Boundless Informant program enabled the NSA to analyze the metadata it collected. The tool has a mapping feature that allows data to be analyzed by country. The program seemingly contradicts claims by NSA officials that it does not have the ability to track the information it collects. The NSA shares raw intelligence data with Israel, passing it on before determining if it contained information about U.S. citizens. The NSA spied on Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff as well as Petrobras, Brazil's national oil company. The NSA conducted surveillance on the European Union embassy in Washington, D.C., France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the European Council headquarters in Brussels.

The NSA, Edward Snowden, and Surveillance (part 1 of 2): An overview of the NSA surveillance program leaked to the media by Edward Snowden by Beth Rowen Edward Snowden Related Links U.S. Spying and Surveillance Timeline National Security Agency Biography of Edward Snowden One of the biggest and most far-reaching stories of 2013 broke in early June and continued to make headlines—and raise eyebrows—for the remainder of the year. On June 6, the British newspaper theGuardianpublished the first of many stories by Glenn Greenwald about the top-secret surveillance activities of the National Security Agency. Reports of the leaks, many of which were published simultaneously by theWashington Post, revealed that the NSA has secretly collected information from U.S. citizens without their consent, gathering data about their phone calls, internet use, instant messaging, and email activity. On June 9, Edward Snowden, a former CIA employee, admitted that he was the source of the NSA leaks. The Snowden leaks divulged that the NSA collects meta data about virtually every phone call made in the U.S., amounting to billions of calls. Meta data includes the phone numbers of the caller and recipient and the duration of the call; it does not include recordings of the actual conversations. Major phone companies, including Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint Nextel, have complied with court orders to turn over these records to the NSA. The leaks also uncovered details about PRISM, a secret program that gave NSA direct access to the servers of Facebook, YouTube, Skype, Google, Apple, Yahoo and other companies. Such access allowed the government to retrieve emails, photographs, and documents of millions of users. These companies denied that they offered the government "back door" access to their networks. Britain's Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)—an agency similar to the NSA—had access to data gleaned through PRISM. Snowden: A Hero or a Traitor? Public reaction to the leaks was mixed; some people considered Snowden a whistle-blower and a champion of government transparency, while others called him a traitor. President Barack Obamaissued a carefully worded statement about the leaks, saying that there must be a balance between protecting national security and the privacy of citizens. "You can't have 100 percent security and also then have 100 percent privacy and zero inconvenience," Obama said. He also said the NSA programs "do not involve listening to people's phone calls, do not involve reading the emails of U.S. citizens or U.S. residents, absent further action by a federal court that is entirely consistent with what we would do, for example, in a criminal investigation." He was referring to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, the secret court, known as the FISA court, established in 1978 to hear requests for warrants for "electronic surveillance to obtain foreign intelligence information." U.S. intelligence officials defended the NSA programs. In mid-June, NSA Director Keith Alexander told the House intelligence committee that the surveillance programs have prevented more than 50 "potential terrorist events" since 2001. Fighting Extradition and Looking for a Place to Call Home Snowden, fearing prosecution, fled to Hong Kong before the Guardian ran its first story. He arrived in Hong Kong with four laptop computers from which he could access some of the U.S. government's most closely held secrets. He remained in Hong Kong while he sought asylum in a number of countries. The U.S. government filed espionage and theft charges against Snowden on June 21 and also requested that Hong Kong extradite Snowden. Fighting extradition, Snowden traveled from Hong Kong to Moscow on June 23. When Snowden first arrived at the Russian airport, he sought asylum in Russia. Russian president Vladimir Putin responded by saying that Snowden could stay in Russia only if he ceased "his work aimed at inflicting damage on our American partners." Meanwhile, the United States made diplomatic moves to prevent Snowden from receiving permanent asylum in Ecuador, Bolivia, Nicaragua, or Venezuela, the Latin American governments that stated they would take him.

The U.S. Government Is Closed for Business: Standoff over Obamacare results in government shutdown. U.S. Capital Photo Credit: Carol Highsmith On September 30, 2013, after several attempts by the House, Senate, and President Barack Obama to reach a deal on the federal budget ceiling and the funding of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, the Senate rejected a Republican bill, forcing a partial shutdown of the government beginning on Oct. 1. The bill, approved earlier by the House, would have funded the government but delayed full implementation of Obamacare and eliminated a tax on medical devices that would cover some costs of the new health care program. As the Oct. 1 deadline approached, Republicans in the House showed no signs of backing down on the bill, despite little public support for the shutdown. In a New York Times/CBS News poll, 87% of respondents said they were frustrated about the potential shutdown and 69% said they would prefer an agreement over the budget and Obamacare over a U.S. default on its debt. On the morning of September 30, Speaker John Boehnersaid on the House floor, "The House has done its work. We passed a bill on Saturday night — sent it to the United States Senate — that would delay Obamacare for one year, and would eliminate permanently the medical device tax that is costing us tens of thousands of jobs that are being shipped overseas." Boehner also said that the health care law "is not ready for prime time." Boehner's intransigence may be a response to pressure from the Tea Party and other conservative groups, which have been lobbying members of Congress and staging "Defund Obamacare" protests for months. That same day, President Obamaurged Congress to agree on a bill. “We are the foundation of the world economy and the world financial system. And our currency is the reserve currency of the world. We don’t mess with that. And we certainly don’t allow domestic policy differences on issues that are unrelated to the budget to endanger not only our economy but the world economy," he said during a public appearance. As the government shut down on October 1, some Americans felt the impact more than others. A partial shutdown meant that unemployment, social security and Medicare benefits would not be interrupted. The mail service would continue. Federal air traffic controllers and airport security screeners would still report to work. However, all national parks and Smithsonian museums would close. People seeking government backed mortgages and loans could see delays. Active military personnel, about 1.4 million people, would stay on duty, but their paychecks would be delayed. Health and safety inspectors would stop workplace inspections except in emergency situations. The impact of the U.S. government shutdown was already being felt by the world's financial markets as stocks fell around the globe on September 30, 2013.

October 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of October 2013. *. Standoff over Obamacare Results in Government Shutdown (Oct. 1):Congress fails to agree on a budget and pass a spending bill, causing the government to shut down. The failure to pass a bill is largely due to a standoff over the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Republicans show no signs of backing down on the bill, which passed in the House the weekend. The bill will fund the government but delay the Affordable Care Act and eliminate a tax on medical devices that would cover some costs of the new health care program. Some Americans feel the impact of the shutdown more than others. The partial shutdown means that unemployment, social security and Medicare benefits will not be interrupted. The mail service will continue. Federal air traffic controllers and airport security screeners will still report to work. However, all national parks and Smithsonian museums close. People seeking government backed mortgages and loans might see delays. Active military personnel, about 1.4 million people, will stay on duty, but their paychecks will be delayed. Health and safety inspectors will stop workplace inspections except in emergency situations. Overall, the government shutdown forces about 800,000 federal workers off the job.(Oct. 10):In an effort to end the shutdown they began, Republicans in the House offer President Obamaa plan to increase the debt limit through Nov. 22 if he promises to negotiate with them on a tax overhaul and long-term deficit reduction deal. If Obama agrees, the debt ceiling increase proposal may come to a vote in the House within twenty-four hours. Currently, the government is scheduled to hit its debt ceiling on October 17.

October 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of October 2013. *. Netanyahu Maintains Tough Stance against Iran (Oct. 1):Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahutravels to Washington D.C. to meet with President Obamato discuss the situation with Iran, including Iranian President Hassan Rowhani's recent overtures toward thawing relations with the west. The meeting between Netanyahu and Obama comes less than a week after Obama had spoken with Rowhani on the phone, the first time the leaders of the United States and Iran have talked in 34 years. During their meeting, Netanyahu and Obama present a united front when it comes to Iran having nuclear weapons. Obama assures Netanyahu that the U.S. will still turn to military action to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons.(Oct 2):Netanyahu gives his annual speech at the United Nations. During the speech, he refers to Iranian President Rowhani as a "wolf in sheep's clothing" and warns the international community not to be fooled by Rowhani's recent overtures. "I want there to be no confusion on this point. Israel will not allow Iran to get nuclear weapons. If Israelis forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone," Netanyahu says. *. Top al-Qaeda Operative Captured in Tripoli (Oct. 5):U.S. commandoes capture Nazih Abdul-Hamed al-Ruqai, a high-ranking al-Qaeda operative who is known as Abu Anas al-Libi, in Tripoli. U.S. authorities have been pursuing Abu Anas, who was indicted for helping plan the 1998 bombings of the U.S. Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, for about 15 years. While commandoes capture Abu Anas, U.S. Navy SEALs storm a villa in Somalia in pursuit of an Al Shabab leader who goes by the name Ikrimah. The commandos are met with strong resistance and engage in a gun battle with militants before retreating without capturing or killing Ikrimah. U.S. officials do not link Ikrimah to the mall attack in Nairobi last month, but do say he is one of the militants in charge of planning attacks outside Somaliaand that he is connected to members of Al Qaeda who masterminded the 1998 attack on the American Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.

October 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of October 2013. *. Boat Sinks in the Mediterranean, Killing Dozens (Oct. 3):At least 94 people are dead and another 250 are missing after a boat capsizes in the Mediterraneannear the Sicilian island of Lampedusa. The boat, carrying African migrants to Europe, sinks after passengers light a blanket on fire to signal their position. The fire spreads from the blanket to gasoline, creating a panic that sinks the boat. It is the worst boating accident of its kind in the region.

September 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of September 2013. *. Weak Job Report Raises Doubts (Sept. 6):According to the Labor Department, 169,000 jobs are added in August, slightly less than the monthly average over the last year. Meanwhile, unemployment decreases from 7.4 percent in July to 7.3 percent in August. However, unemployment continues to decrease for the wrong reason, because more people have dropped out of the labor force, and not because they have found jobs. Adding to the uncertainty, job growth estimates for July and June are revised to be less than what they were originally reported.

September 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of September 2013. *. Colorado Floods Leave Thousands Stranded (Sept. 12):Flash floods around Boulder, Coloradocause massive damage, cutting off highways, destroying at least 19,000 homes and killing at least eight people. University of Colorado's main campus is closed and five hundred students and staff members are ordered to evacuate. The flooding is due to heavy rains producing record levels of rainfall. Officials expect the death toll to rise.(Sept. 15):More rain in the area complicates the rescue effort. The death toll rises to six people. More than 800 people are unaccounted for in Boulder and Larimer Counties. During a CNN Television interview, Colorado Governor John W. Hickenlooper says, "There are many, many homes that have been destroyed. A number have been collapsed, and we haven't been in them yet. So we're still dealing with that. How do we save lives first?" *. Massive Fire Destroys Jersey Shore Boardwalk (Sept. 12):A fire destroys the Jersey Shore boardwalk nearly a year after Hurricane Sandycaused massive damage to the same area. The fire begins at an ice cream shop before spreading over six-blocks, taking out at least 20 businesses. The Funtown Pier, the same pier that was damaged by Hurricane Sandy, is immersed in flames. The fire wipes out months of rebuilding and recovery from the hurricane. At a news conference, New JerseyGovernor Chris Christie calls the blaze "unthinkable" and admits that when he heard the news, "I said to my staff, 'I feel like I want to throw up.'"(Sept. 17):Officials declare the fire an accident. The investigation determines that the fire was caused by faulty electrical wiring, which may have been damaged by water and sand during Hurricane Sandy last fall. *. Massive Storms Hit Both Coasts in Mexico (Sept. 12):Hurricane Ingrid, coming from the Pacific, and Tropical Storm Manuel, coming from the Gulf of Mexico, hit Mexicoat the same time. The two storms cause flooding in several towns and cities. Major highways are cut off. Heavy rains cause deadly landslides. More than 120 people are killed. Thousands are left homeless. The government declares the storms, which are some of the most damaging in decades, a national emergency. As the storms continue, stranded tourists have to be airlifted from Acapulco to Mexico City. Although several hotels in Acapulco are not damaged from flooding and mudslides, power failures and destroyed highways make getting food and other provisions to tourists impossible. At least 40,000 tourists are stranded in Acapulco. *. Magnitude 7.7 Earthquake Kills at least 327 (Sept. 23):A 7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Baluchistan, an area of deserts and mountains in Pakistan. The earthquake causes hundreds of mud houses to collapse on residents. At least 327 people are killed. The earthquake is the worst in the country since 2005 and is felt throughout South Asia. Hundreds of soldiers from Pakistan's army are airlifted to help in the rescue effort. The earthquake hits Pakistan while the country is still in mourning over the deaths of more than 80 Christians in the suicide bombing of the All Saints Church in Peshawar.

September 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of September 2013. *. Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams Win the U.S. Open (Sept. 8-9): Rafael Nadalbeats Novak Djokovicin four sets (6–2, 3–6, 6–4, 6–1) to win his second U.S. Open Men's Singles Championship. Serena Williamsis tested in a tough three set match (7–5, 6–7, 6–1) against Victoria Azarenka for the U.S. Open Women's Championship. It is Serena's fifth U.S. open win and her seventeenth major singles title. *. Colorado Recalls Pro-Gun Control State Senators (Sept. 10):Voters in Coloradothrow out of office Democrats John Morse and Angela Giron for their support of recently enacted gun-control laws that mandate background checks on private gun sales and limit magazine clips to 15 rounds. The election draws national attention not only for the ouster of the officials but also for the influx of money on both sides, from the National Rifle Association and New York mayor Michael Bloomberg, a gun-control advocate. *. Gunman and 12 Victims Killed in D.C. Navy Yard Shooting (Sept. 16):Former Navy reservist Aaron Alexis, 34, kills 12 people at the Washington Navy Yard, near the U.S. Capitol. Alexis, who had been employed at the base by a military subcontractor, is killed in a shootout with police. *. Government Heads Toward a Shutdown (Sept. 30):The Senate rejects a Republican bill that will fund the government but delay the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. The rejection increases the chance of a government shutdown at midnight because the spending bill must pass to fund the government. With just hours left before the deadline, the Senate votes against the spending bill, which the House approved over the weekend. The bill will delay the Affordable Care Act for a year and eliminate a tax on medical devices that would cover some costs of the new health care program. The Senate's rejection sends the bill back to the House. However, Republicans in the House show no signs of backing down on the bill. Speaker John Boehnersays on the House floor, "The House has done its work. We passed a bill on Saturday night — sent it to the United States Senate — that would delay Obamacare for one year, and would eliminate permanently the medical device tax that is costing us tens of thousands of jobs that are being shipped overseas." Boehner also says that the health care law "is not ready for prime time." The impact of a possible U.S. government shutdown is already being felt by the world's financial markets as stocks fall around the globe.

September 2013 Current Events: World News (part 2 of 2): *.Somalian Militants Terrorize Luxury Mall (Sept. 21):Shabab militants attack an upscale mall in Nairobi, killing nearly 70 people and wounding about 175. The siege continues with persistent fighting between government troops and militants. The attack is meticulously planned, and the militants prove to be challenging for the government to dislodge from the Westgate mall. Shabab, based in Somalia, says the attack is in retaliation for the Kenyan military's role in helping Somalia battle the militant group. In the wake of the violence, the ICC suspends the trial of Deputy President William Ruto so he can return to Kenyaand assist in managing the crisis. *. Bo Xilai Is Sentenced to Life in Prison (Sept. 22):Chinese politician Bo Xilai is sentenced to life in prison. Eastern China's Jinan Intermediate People's Court finds him guilty of embezzlement, accepting bribes, and abuses of power, including a failed attempt to stifle the murder allegations against his wife. During the trial, Bo pleads not guilty, contesting every allegation. After the verdict, Bo's associates say that he will likely appeal his sentence. Bo's wife, Gu Kailai, is currently serving a suspended death sentence, the equivalent of life in prison, for the murder of British businessman Neil Heywood. *. Historic Christian Church Destroyed by Taliban (Sept. 23):Two suicide bombers linked to the Taliban attack the All Saints Church in Peshawar, killing more than 80 people and destroying the historic church. It is the deadliest attack against Christians in Pakistan's history. Shiites, also a religious minority in Pakistan, have also been targeted by the Taliban in the past year. The attack prompts many to question if the government should move ahead with plans to begin negotiations with the Taliban. *. Iranian President Takes Steps to Thaw Relations with the West (Sept. 20):In an opinion article in theWashington Post, Iranian President Hassan Rowhanisignals his willingness to engage the international community to forge mutually beneficial relationships. Such diplomacy, he says, means "engaging with one's counterparts, on the basis of equal footing and mutual respect, to address shared concerns and achieve shared objectives." He offers to mediate between the Syrian government and the opposition and reiterates that the country intends to pursue nuclear power for peaceful purposes. "Mastering the atomic fuel cycle and generating nuclear power is as much about diversifying our energy resources as it is about who Iranians are as a nation, our demand for dignity and respect and our consequent place in the world."(Sept. 26):Rowhani's charm offensive continues on his trip to the U.S., where he addresses the UN General Assembly. His speech notably lacks the anti-Israel bluster of his predecessor, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and he is careful to refrain from making statements that will raise eyebrows at home or expectations by the West. He repeats his earlier claim that Iran will never seek nuclear weapons but will continue to pursue uranium enrichment for peaceful purposes. He also suggests that the U.S. and Irancan come to agreement on Iran's nuclear program within six months. In another remarkable turn, Rowhani calls the Holocaust "reprehensible." The statement further illustrates how Rowhani is steering a markedly different course from Ahmadinejad, who denied the Holocaust on several occasions. Many observers are disappointed that President Obama and Rowhani didn't shake hands at the UN. Still, expectations for future talks and progress on the intractable nuclear issue remain high.(Sept. 27):Obama speaks with Rowhani in a historic phone call. It is the first time the leaders of the United States and Iran have talked in 34 years. The phone call lasts 15 minutes. During the call, the two discuss an ongoing effort to reach an agreement over Iran's nuclear program.

September 2013 Current Events: World News (part 1 of 2): Here are the key events in world news for the month of September 2013. *. President Obama Seeks Approval for Military Action Against Syria (Sept. 1): President Obamasurprises many when he announces that he will seek Congressional approval for military action against Syria. The military action will be in response to the chemical attack that killed 1,429 people last month. In a televised address, Obama calls Syria's alleged use of chemical weapons "an assault on human dignity." He also says, in the address, that a failure to respond "could lead to escalating use of chemical weapons or their proliferation to terrorist groups who would do our people harm. In a world with many dangers, this menace must be confronted."(Sept. 4):The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee votes, 10 to 7, to authorize military action in Syria. In the following days, Obama attempts to rally support for the strike, but both the public and Congress expresses increases reluctance for military action.(Sept. 9):A diplomatic solution is back on the table after U.S. secretary of state John Kerrysuggests half-heartedly that a strike can be averted if Assad agrees to hand over all chemical weapons. Russiatakes the proposal seriously. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov says, "If the establishment of international control over chemical weapons in the country will prevent attacks, then we will immediately begin work with Damascus. And we call on the Syrian leadership to not only agree to setting the chemical weapons storage sites under international control, but also to their subsequent destruction."(Sept. 12):Syrian foreign minister Walid al-Moallem also embraces the option. "We are ready to reveal the locations of the chemical weapon sites and to stop producing chemical weapons and make these sites available for inspection by representatives of Russia, other countries and the United Nations," he says in a statement on Sept. 12. It is the first time the Syrian government acknowledges it has chemical weapons. Given the uncertainty of Congressional authorization, diplomacy will spare Obama a potential rebuke that can undercut his authority for the remainder of his presidency.(Sept. 15):Russia and the U.S. reach an agreement that Syria must provide an inventory of its chemicals weapons and production facilities within a week and either turn over or destroy all of its chemical weapons by mid-2014. If the government fails to comply, then the UN Security Council will take up the issue. The timetable is extremely aggressive; such disarmament typically takes years, not months. While the agreement delays a Congressional vote on a military strike, the U.S. keeps that possibility on the table. "If diplomacy fails, the United States remains prepared to act," Obama says. *. Kenya's Deputy President Denies Charges of Crimes Against Humanity (Sept. 11):Kenya's Deputy President William Ruto pleads not guilty to charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court in early September 2013. The charges stem from the violence that followed the 2007 election. President Kenyatta is scheduled to appear before the court in November. Days before Ruto appears at the ICC, parliament votes to withdraw from the court. *. United Nations Confirms Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria (Sept. 16):The UN confirms in a report that the chemical agent sarin was used near Damascus on Aug. 21. "Chemical weapons have been used in the ongoing conflict between the parties in the Syrian Arab Republic, also against civilians, including children, on a relatively large scale," the report says. "The environmental, chemical and medical samples we have collected provide clear and convincing evidence that surface-to-surface rockets containing the nerve agent sarin were used." The report does not indicate who was responsible for launching the attack.(Sept. 18):Russia denounces the UN's report, calling it incomplete. In a statement broadcast on Russian television, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei A. Ryabkov says, "We think that the report was distorted. It was one-sided. The basis of information upon which it is built is insufficient."(Sept. 26):The five permanent members of the Security Council agree on a resolution that requires Syria to hand over its stockpile of chemical weapons. If Syria fails to comply, then the Security Council will reconvene to determine repercussions, which could include military action or sanctions. Meanwhile, the fragile coalition of opposition groups further splinter, when 11 rebel groups announce that they will no longer recognize the Syrian National Coalition, the dissident leadership that is based in Turkey. Instead, the groups say they will work together to establish sharia, or Islamic law, in Syria. The move signals the rising power of groups affiliated with al-Qaeda.

August 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of August 2013. *. Minnesota and Rhode Island Begin Issuing Same-Sex Marriage Licenses (Aug. 1):Two more states, Minnesotaand Rhode Island, begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples this month. To see all the states that have legalized same-sex marriage, go here. *. Bulger Found Guilty of Racketeering, Extortion, Conspiracy and Murder (Aug. 12):Notorious Boston gangster James (Whitey) Bulgeris found guilty of 31 of the 32 charges he faced, including murder, extortion, money laundering, drug dealing and possession of weapons. Bulger, at age 83, faces a sentence of life in prison, plus thirty years. His sentencing is scheduled for November 13. *. Manning Sentenced to 35 Years for Leaking U.S. Files (Aug. 21):Private Bradley Manning, age 25, is sentenced to 35 years in prison for leaking over 700,000 U.S. government files to WikiLeaks, files that contained classified U.S. military activities. It is the longest sentence ever given in the U.S. involving leaked government data to the public. Private Manning can be up for parole in seven years, according to his attorney.(Aug. 22):The day after his sentencing, Manning announces that he is female and wants to be referred to from now on as Chelsea. The announcement is made during an appearance on theTodayshow by David E. Coombs, Manning's defense lawyer. Coombs makes the announcement by reading Manning's written statement. In the statement, Manning writes: "As I transition into this next phase of my life, I want everyone to know the real me. I am Chelsea Manning. I am a female. Given the way that I feel, and have felt since childhood, I want to begin hormone therapy as soon as possible. I hope that you will support me in this transition. I also request that, starting today, you refer to me by my new name and use the feminine pronoun."

August 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of August 2013. *. More Jobs Are Added in July, But Growth Remains Slow (Aug. 2):According to the Labor Department, 162,000 jobs are added in July, thirty thousand less than what was added in June. Meanwhile, unemployment decreases from 7.6 percent in June to 7.4 percent in July, partly because more people stopped looking for work. The unemployment rate represents only those who are only actively seeking a job. *. Amazon Founder BuysThe Washington Post(Aug. 5): Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com, buysThe Washington Postfor $250 million. Bezos is currently ranked 19th onForbes' billionaire list. He has an estimated fortune of more than $25 billion. Despite his extensive wealth and success, Bezos' purchase comes as a surprise because he has not previously mentioned an interest in the newspaper business.

August 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science news. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of August 2013. *. Several Wildfires Burn in Several States (Aug. 17):As of mid-August, 34 wildfires are burning in eleven states. There are ten wildfires in Idahoalone. Idaho residents near the town of Ketchum are forced from their homes as 1,200 firefighters battle the state's biggest wildfire, which currently burns across 1,000 acres. More than 2,300 homes have been evacuated so far in central Idaho. The fire is six percent contained.(Aug. 26):One of the biggest fires in California's history continues to spread near Yosemite National Park. The fire, which is being referred to as the Rim Fire, is seven percent contained and has burned through 144,000 acres, making it the 14th largest fire in Californiasince 1932, the year the state started keeping wildfire records. The size of the fire is roughly the size of Chicago. The fire's location makes it a threat to San Francisco's electrical and water supply. Nearly 3,000 firefighters are battling the blaze. *. Train Hits Crowd in India, Killing Dozens (Aug. 19):Dozens of Hindu pilgrims are killed while crossing the tracks near a remote station in eastern Indiawhen an express train crashes into them. After the crash, the crowd drags out the train's driver and beats him. The crowd also sets the train on fire. The Bihar train station is not accessible by road and express trains usually come through without stopping at a speed of 50 miles per hour. Officials say the driver of the train had clearance to pass through the station. Thirty-seven people are confirmed dead, including several children.

August 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of August 2013. *. Russia Grants Asylum to Fugitive, Angers U.S. (Aug. 1): Russiagrants Edward Snowden, the American who leaked info about U.S. surveillance, asylum for one year. The temporary asylum allows him to leave the Moscow airport where he has been since June. Russia grants Snowden asylum despite strong urging from the U.S. not to do so. In response, President Obamacancels a planned summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putinwhich was to be held in Moscow in September. *. Egypt Declares State of Emergency (Aug. 14):In Cairo, riot police raid protest camps. They open fire and use armored bulldozers, tear gas, snipers, and helicopters to clear the camps. Protesters throw rocks and burn tires in response. More than 500 people are killed, and the government declares a state of emergency. Mohamed ElBaradei resigns as vice president in protest of the military's action. President Barack Obama cancels joint military exercises between Egyptand the U.S. that are scheduled for September in response to the military's repressive and heavy-handed tactics. "While we want to sustain our relationship with Egypt, our traditional cooperation cannot continue as usual while civilians are being killed in the streets," Obama says.(Aug. 18):The crackdown and protests continues, as both the military and Mohammed Morsi's supporters vow to continue their fight. Casualties mount with more than 1,000 fatalities, most of whom are Morsi supporters. Thirty-six Islamic militants in police custody are killed while being transported to prison on the outskirts of Cairo.(Aug. 19):Militants kill 24 police officers in the northern Sinai region. Foreign governments urge the military to use restraint, a plea largely ignored. While foreign officials deplore the heavy-handed tactics of the military, they are careful not to imply support for the protesters, recognizing that the interim government is the only hope for stability. Police arrest Mohamed Badie, the Muslim Brotherhood's spiritual leader, and charge him with incitement to murder. Meanwhile, a court orders that former president Hosni Mubarak be released from prison, calling into question whether the 2011 revolution would be in vain. Given the turn of events, all signs indicate that Egypt is headed back to becoming an authoritarian regime. *. Israel and Palestine Begin Talks on Their Own Turf (Aug. 14):Israelis and Palestinians officially begin peace talks in Jerusalem. Expectations are low going into the talks, the third attempt to negotiate since 2000, and nearly five years since the last attempt. The talks begin just hours after Israelreleases 26 Palestinian prisoners. The prisoner release is a step on Israel's part to bring Palestineback to the negotiating table. Israel says the prisoner release will be the first of four. However, Palestinian officials are concerned over Israel's ongoing settlement building in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, land that will be part of an official Palestinian state. "The talks might collapse any time because of the Israeli practices," says Yasser Abed Rabbo, adviser to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking on Voice of Palestine radio about the settlements. Israelis are also aware of the challenges ahead. In a TV interview just before the talks began, Israel's chief negotiator Tzipi Livnisays, "It will be complicated and complex, but I am not giving up." *. Opposition Accuses Government of Chemical Weapon Attack in Syria (Aug. 21):Opposition groups accuse the Syrian government of attacking rebel areas in Zamalka, Ein Terma, and Erbeen, suburbs east of Damascus, with chemical weapons. Gruesome, graphic images in the media show victims foaming at the mouth and twitching and lines of covered corpses. The opposition say as many as 1,000 people died in the attack. The government denies it launched a chemical attack. The alleged attack coincides with the arrival of UN inspectors to Syriato investigate earlier allegations of government use of chemical weapons. Inspectors are cleared to investigate the site, and their convoy is fired on by snipers en route. They do gain access to the affected areas and took samples for testing. The Syrian government denies it launched a chemical attack. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerrycalls the attack a "moral obscenity" and an "indiscriminate slaughter of civilians."(Aug. 27):Because Russia and China vow to veto any UN Security Council resolution authorizing retaliation on Assad, the U.S. and allies hope to form a coalition to support an attack. President Obama says that he is considering a limited strike on the military bases

July 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of July 2013. *. Key Witness Testifies at Bulger Trial (July 9):Kevin Weeks, a key government witness, testifies against his former mentor James (Whitey) Bulger. In his testimony, Weeks recounts how Bulger killed two men in 1982 in South Boston. Weeks gets a reduced sentence for testifying. His testimony is the most damaging yet because it ties Bulger to at least two of the 19 murders he's been accused of playing a part in.(July 10):As Weeks testimony continues, he and Bulger trade expletives in the courtroom. It is the first words the two have spoken to each other in over 16 years. The trial, which began on June 12, 2013, is expected to continue through September. *. George Zimmerman Found Not Guilty of Trayvon Martin's Murder (July 13):A jury in Floridafinds George Zimmermannot guilty of murdering Trayvon Martin. The six jurors, all of which are women, deliberate for 16.5 hours before the verdict. Of the jurors, five women are white and one is a minority. After the verdict, Tracy Martin, Trayvon's father, tweets: "Even though I am broken hearted my faith is unshattered I WILL ALWAYS LOVE MY BABY TRAY." Both sides ask for peace after the verdict. The verdict does spark outrage on the internet and protests in cities throughout the U.S., but no riots or extreme violence are reported.

July 2013 Current Events: Business News Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of July 2013. *. Job Growth Continues in June (July 5):According to the Labor Department, 195,000 jobs are added in June, twenty thousand more jobs than were added in May. Meanwhile, unemployment held at 7.6 percent, the exact same percent as in May. See also: Current Events: U.S. News, July 2013 Current Events: World News, July 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News, July 2013 Recent Deaths People in the News

July 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of July 2013. *. Plane Crashes in San Francisco Killing Three and Injuring Dozens (July 6):A passenger jet of Asiana Airlines crashes at the San Franciscointernational Airport while attempting to land. The plane, traveling from Seoul, South Korea, catches fire. Three people are killed. More than 180 others are injured and taken to various San Francisco hospitals. The cause of the plane crash is not clear. The National Transportation Safety Board begins an investigation immediately. *. A Train in Quebec Derails and Explodes (July 6):In Lac-Megantic, Quebec, an unattended runaway train carrying crude oil derails and explodes. Fifty people are missing and presumed dead. Thirty buildings are destroyed. The engineer left the train to take a break, engaging the breaks before he left. *. Paris Train Derails, Killing at Least Six (July 12):A passenger train from Paris travels south and slams into a station platform. At least six people are killed and a dozen more are seriously injured. The train provides regional service. The accident happens at the Bretigny-sur-Orge station, 16 miles south of Paris, France. *. Spain Has Worst Train Crash in Decades (July 24):A passenger train derails and crashes in northwest Spain, just outside of Santiago de Compostela. At least 78 people are killed and dozens more are injured. Investigators are looking into the reason for the incident, although early reports have said that the train was traveling at an excessive speed, taking a curve at more than twice the speed limit just before it derailed.

July 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of July 2013. *. Morsi Deposed by Military After One Year in Office (July 1):The protests in Egyptcontinue and the military issue a statement saying they will step in if Mohammed Morsidoes not respond to the protesters in 48 hours.(July 4):The military deposes Morsi and suspends the constitution, saying the move is an attempt at "national reconciliation" rather than a coup. Morsi, however, calls it a "complete military coup." He is taken into custody and several members of his inner circle are placed under house arrest. Adli Mansour, the chief justice of the Supreme Constitutional Court, is sworn in as interim president. He dismantles the Shura Council, the only functioning body of parliament.(July 5):Thousands of Morsi supporters take to the streets of Cairo in protests organized by the Muslim Brotherhood.(July 8):Troops and police fire on protesters during morning prayers, killing more than 50 Morsi supporters and wounding more than 300. Reports in the news media say the attack was unprovoked. However, the military say soldiers were fired at first. About 650 members of the Muslim Brotherhood are arrested. The violence escalates the political crisis.(July 6):The day after the violence-the worst since the revolution began in 2011-the interim military government names Hazem el-Beblawy, a respected economist who supported the ouster of Mubarak, as prime minister and says a new constitution will be drafted and elections will be held within six months. The Muslim Brotherhood, however, rejects both the appointment of Beblawy and the timeframe for a return to a civilian government. Most members of the opposition, ranging from liberals to conservative Islamists, call the timeframe unrealistic and poorly planned. In another development, Saudi Arabiaand the United Arab Emiratessay they will loan Egypt $8 billion, giving the country a much-needed infusion of cash to shore up the crippled economy.(July 26):At the urging of Gen. Sisi, hundreds of thousands of protesters take to the streets to back the military and to "confront terrorism." The next day, members of the Muslim Brotherhood stage their own demonstration in Cairo in support of Morsi, and police open fire, killing more than 80 people and wounding several hundred. Despite the escalating violence, the Islamists vow to continue their protests. *. Morales Embroiled in Controversy Involving NSA Leaker Snowden (July 3):Bolivia finds itself involved in the international controversy surrounding the future of Edward Snowden, the former CIA employee who leaked top-secret information about U.S. domestic surveillance to several news organizations in June 2013. A plane carrying Morales from Russia back to Bolivia is diverted because several European nations, believing that Snowden is on board the plane, refuse Morales access to their airspace. The move creates a diplomatic furor, and Morales calls the incident an "affront to all [Latin] America," and the vice president, Alvaro Garcia, says Morales is "being kidnapped by imperialism."(July 4):France apologizes the day after the incident. Morales's regional allies, including presidents from Argentina, Ecuador, Uruguay and Venezuela, meet in a show of solidarity and demand an explanation about the incident. *. Historic Wimbledon Crowns Andy Murray and Marion Bartoli (July 6-7):In the Wimbledon Women's Singles Championship, Marion Bartoli of Francedefeats Germany's Sabine Lisicki in straight sets, 6-1, 6-4. It is the first Grand Slam title for Bartoli. It is only the second Wimbledon Championship match in the Open era played by two women who have never won a Grand Slam. Andy Murraybecomes the first Brit in 77 years to take the Wimbledon Men's Singles Championship. He beat number one seed Novak Djokovicin straight sets, 6-4, 7-5, 6-4. Of the historic match, Murray says, "That last game will be the toughest game I'll play in my career, ever." *. Hitto Steps Down as Prime Minister of Syrian National Coalition (July 8):Ghassan Hitto steps down as the prime minister of the opposition Syrian National Coalition after holding the post for less than four months and making little progress in organizing the rebels and their strongholds. Hitto's efforts to garner aid from the West also fell short of expectations. His resignation comes just days after Amad Jarba, a tribal leader from the northeastern part of the country, is elected president of the coalition. As the opposition shows signs of fracturing; Sunni v. Shiite violence intensifies; and Assad's forces hold on to Damascus, most of central Syria, and cities in the north with the help of Iran, Russia, and Hezbollah, the U.S. acknowledges that Bashar al-Assadwould likely remain in power and control parts of Syriaindefinitely. Meanwhile, the UN reports that the death toll in Syria's civil war had surpassed 100,000.

June 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of June 2013. *. Taliban Opens Office in Qatar (June):The Talibanopens an office in Doha, Qatar, and its representatives hold a press conference with an international media contingent. The U.S. says it will begin long-delayed peace talks with the group. Afghanistanwas expected to do the same, but instead says it will not engage in any dialogue with the Taliban, saying such discussions lent the militants credibility. Karzai also seems to want to control the terms of the talks, saying they must be "Afghan-owned and Afghan-led," implying they cannot be held in Qatar. In addition, Karzai pulls out of talks with the U.S. on the important status-of-forces agreement (SOFA), which will govern the status of remaining U.S. troops in Afghanistan after the U.S. withdraws in 2014.(June 18):The Afghan National Security Force assumes complete responsibility for the security of the country, taking over the last areas under NATO control. The 352,000-troop force has shown steady improvement over the past few years and has assumed control over most urban areas. The transition is an important milestone in the country's fight against the Taliban and its move away from dependence on outside forces for stability. *. Anti-Government Protests in Turkey Call for Erdogan's Resignation (June 1):Police withdraw from Istanbul's Gezi Park in Taksim Square and let the occupation continue. Protesters criticize Turkey's Prime Minister Erdogan for being authoritarian and call for his resignation. Erdogan initially dismisses the protesters as "thugs," but agrees to meet with representatives of the many groups of demonstrators.(June 11):Police storm the park, again spraying protesters with tear gas and water, and force protesters out of the area. The protests are compared to the Occupy movementthat took hold in the U.S. in September 2011. Erdogan has been popular since taking office in 2003, leading an economic recovery, expanding the middle class, and weakening the influence of the military. At the same time, his critics accuse him of being heavy-handed and allowing his religious views to influence his leadership. *. Reports of Chemical Weapon Use in Syria Continues (June 4):A human rights team working for the United Nations reports that there are "reasonable grounds" to believe that government forces in Syriahave used chemical weapons. French foreign minister Laurent Fabius reports that sarin, a nerve gas, has been used on multiple occasions.(June 5):Syrian rebels pull out of the town of Al-Qusayr, a former strategic stronghold for them. The Syrian Army regains control of the town. Iran's government, in an official statement, congratulates the Syrian army for recapturing Al-Qusayr. *. Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal Win French Open (June 8): Serena Williamsbeats last year's champion, Maria Sharapova, 6-4, 6-4, to win her second French Open women's championship. It is exactly eleven years to the day that Serena beat her older sister Venusto win her first French Open in 2002.(June 9): Rafael Nadalbeat fellow Spaniard David Ferrer, 6-3, 6-2, 6-3, to take the men's crown for a record eighth time. The men's championship is interrupted by two anti-gay marriage protesters. One of them runs on the court with a flare. The incident is reminiscent of the 1993 on court stabbing of Monica Selesin Germany. *. Centrist Wins Presidential Election in Iran (June 15):Hassan Rowhani, a moderate cleric and Iran's former negotiator on nuclear issues, wins June 2013's presidential election, taking just under 51% of the vote. Reformists throw their support behind Rowhani after their preferred candidate, Mohammad Reza Aref, drops out of the race. Thousands of Iranians take to the streets to celebrate Rowhani's victory. While he has the backing of reformists, Rowhani has long been a member of the country's conservative establishment, having served in parliament for more than 20 years and playing a strategic role in the execution of the Iran-Iraq war. He has campaigned on a promise to reach out to the west and improve relations with the United States. After his victory is announced, Rowhani promises to "follow the path of moderation and justice, not extremism."

June 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of June 2013. *. U.S. Government under Heavy Scrutiny after NSA leaks (June 6):The Guardianreceives information that reveals that the National Security Agency (NSA) is using PRISM to spy on the web activities, including email, of U.S. citizens. Through PRISM, a clandestine national security surveillance program, the NSA has direct access to Facebook, YouTube, Skype, Google, Apple, Yahoo and other websites. In its report,The Guardiandoes not state who they received the information from.(June 7):The Wall Street Journalreports that the NSA also monitors the credit card transactions and customer records of three major phone service providers. U.S. Director of National Intelligence James Clapper calls the recent newspaper reports on government surveillance "reprehensible."(June 8):The Guardianpublishes a report on another NSA tool called Boundless Informant, used by the U.S. government to watch activity in every country in the world. Facebook's Mark Zuckerbergand Google's Larry Pageboth deny any knowledge of PRISM. President Obamaconfirms PRISM's existence and its use to spy on the online activity of U.S. citizens.The New York Timesreports that some companies, such as Facebook and Google, negotiated with the U.S. government over spying on customers. The report contradicts previous denials by those companies.(June 9):Edward Snowden, a former CIA employee, comes forward and admits that he is the source of the recent NSA leaks. Snowden, fearing prosecution, defects to Hong Kongand is currently on the run, wanted for questioning. *. Supreme Court Orders University to Re-examine Affirmative Action Policy (June 24):InFisherv.University of Texas, the Supreme Court allows universities to continue considering race as a factor in admissions to achieve diversity, but it does tell them that they must prove that "available, workable race-neutral alternatives do not suffice" before considering race. The court rules 7–1 to send the case back to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit for further review to determine if the school passes the test of "strict scrutiny," the highest level of judicial review. The ruling is considered a compromise between the court's conservative and liberal factions. *. Supreme Court Rules on Voting Rights Act (June 25):In Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court strikes down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act, which established a formula for Congress to use when determining if a state or voting jurisdiction requires prior approval before changing its voting laws. Currently under Section 5 of the act nine-mostly Southern-states with a history of discrimination must get clearance from Congress before changing voting rules to make sure racial minorities are not negatively affected. While the 5-4 decision does not invalidate Section 5, it makes it toothless. Chief Justice John Roberts says the formula Congress now uses, which was written in 1965, has become outdated. "While any racial discrimination in voting is too much, Congress must ensure that the legislation it passes to remedy that problem speaks to current conditions," he says in the majority opinion. In a strongly worded dissent, Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg says, "Hubris is a fit word for today's demolition of the V.R.A." (Voting Rights Act). *. Supreme Court Strikes Down DOMA (June 26):The Supreme Court rules that the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. In a 5 to 4 vote, the court rules that DOMA violates the rights of gays and lesbians. The court also rules that the law interferes with the states' rights to define marriage. It is the first case ever on the issue of gay marriage for the Supreme Court. Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.votes against striking it down as does Antonin Scalia, Samuel Alitoand Clarence Thomas. However, conservative-leaning Justice Anthony M. Kennedyvotes with his liberal colleagues to overturn DOMA. *. Supreme Court Rules on California Same-Sex Marriage Case (June 26):The Supreme Court rules that same-sex marriage opponents in Californiadid not have standing to appeal the lower court ruling that overturned the state's ban, known as Proposition 8. This ruling will most likely remove legal battles for same-sex couples wishing to marry in California. However, the ruling does not directly affect other states.

May 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of May 2013. *. Spring Economic Slowdown Is Avoided (May 3):According to the Labor Department, 165,000 jobs are added in April, exceeding the 140,000 jobs predicted by economists. It is also a big improvement over March's numbers. The Labor Department also provides more good news, revising the number of jobs added in February and March. Their latest data adds 114,000 jobs to totals from February and March. However, unemployment drops only slightly from 7.6 percent in March to 7.5 percent in April.

May 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of May 2013. *. Death Toll Increases in Bangladesh Factory Building Disaster (May 9):The number of casualties in the Bangladeshfactory building collapse rises to at least 900 workers. The building, Rana Plaza, had more than 3,000 employees. The building's collapse is considered the deadliest accident in the garment industry's history. More than 2,500 people have been rescued from the building.(May 14):With rescue operations at Rana Plaza ending, the death toll rises to 1,127 people. *. Mile-Wide Category 4 Tornado Hits Oklahoma (May 20):An enormous category 4 tornado hits Oklahoma City, Moore, and Newcastle. Moore is hardest hit. The city's Plaza Towers Elementary School is flattened. At least 24 people are killed in the storm. The tornado, stretching about a mile wide, is on the ground for 40 minutes.

June 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of June 2013. *. Several Wildfires Burn through Colorado (June):Several wildfires erupt in Coloradodue to dry and dead evergreen trees. The trees are particularly vulnerable this year from drought and a spruce beetle outbreak. The fire causing the most damage is in a suburb near Colorado Springs. That fire destroys more than 500 homes and kills two people. The largest fire, about 70,000 acres in size, burns through southern Colorado. Even though it forces the evacuation of at least 1,000 people, it causes less damage than the suburban Colorado Springs fire due to its location. *. Elite Firefighters Killed in Arizona (June 30):Members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots are killed fighting the Yarnell Hill Fire. The wind suddenly changed direction, giving the firefighters little time to escape its path. The fire consumed 8,000 acres. It was the worst single loss of firefighters since the 2001 terrorist attacks.

June 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of June 2013. *. Job Growth Increases in May (June 7):According to the Labor Department, 175,000 jobs are added in May, ten thousand more jobs than were added in April. However, unemployment increases slightly as well, from 7.5 percent in April to 7.6 in May.

May 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of May 2013. *. Israel Takes Responsibility for Airstrikes in Syria (May 5): Israelmakes two airstrikes on Damascus. The first happens on Friday, May 3, and the second two days later. Israeli officials maintain that the airstrikes are not meant as a way for Israel to become involved in Syria's ongoing civil war. Instead, the strikes focus on military warehouses in an effort to prevent Hezbollahfrom getting more weapons. Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shiite militia group with strong ties to Iran. *. Soldier Killed on London Street (May 22):Two men approach and murder a uniformed soldier on the street in London. The men are armed with knives and a meat cleaver. After they kill the soldier, police shoot and arrest them. The United Kingdomtreats the incident as an act of terror. *. Civil War in Syria Spills over into Lebanon (May 25):Hezbollah and Syrian forces bomb the rebel-controlled town of Al-Qusayr, Homs. Dozens are killed.(May 26):Multiple rockets strike Beirut, mainly hitting Shiite suburbs, which are also strongholds of Hezbollah.(May 27):The ban against arming the Syrian rebels is lifted by the European Union.(May 28):U.S. Senator John McCaintravels to Syria and meets with rebels in a show of support. With them, he discusses the possible future involvement of the U.S. in Syria's civil war. *. Huge Turnout for Anti-Gay Marriage Rally in France (May 26):An estimated 150,000 people protest gay marriage during a rally in Paris, France. At least 100 people are arrested. An additional 50 people are arrested before the rally begins. *. Anti-Government Protests Spread Throughout Turkey (May 31):A sit-in protesting government plans to raze Istanbul's Gezi Park in Taksim Square to build a shopping mall grow into enormous anti-government demonstrations after police begin spraying protesters with tear gas and water cannons. The demonstrations spread to dozens of cities throughout Turkey.

May 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of May 2013. *. Three Additional Arrests Made in Boston Marathon Bombing (May 1):Three arrests are made in connection to the Boston Marathonbombing. Dias Kadyrbayev and Azamat Tazhayakov are arrested and charged with concealing evidence during a federal investigation. Robel K. Phillipos is charged with lying to impede the federal investigation. All three are close friends with Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. If Kadyrbayev and Tazhayakov are found guilty they face up to five years in prison. Phillipos faces eight years. *. Rhode Island, Delaware and Minnesota Legalize Same-Sex Marriage (May 2):After same-sex marriage legislation passes in both houses of Rhode Island's legislature, Governor Lincoln Chafee signs it into law. The new law, legalizing same-sex marriage, goes into effect on August 1, 2013.(May 7):Governor Jack Markell signs the Civil Marriage Equality and Religious Freedom act, legalizing same-sex marriage for the state of Delaware. The new law goes into effect on July 1, 2013.(May 13):In Minnesota, the State Senate votes 37 to 30 in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage. The vote comes a week after it passes in the House. Governor Mark Dayton, a supporter of same-sex marriage, says he will sign the bill the following afternoon. Gay couples will be able to marry in Minnesota in August 2013. *. Orb Wins 139th Kentucky Derby (May 4):Orb, the favorite, wins the Kentucky Derby with a time of 2:02.89. Golden Soul finishes second. Revolutionary comes in third. For winning the race, Orb takes home 1.4 million. Coolers and large purses are banned from the event due to the recent Boston Marathon bombing.

April 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of April 2013. *. Economy Stalls as Hiring Slows Down in March (April 5):Only 88,000 jobs are added in March, less than half the amount economists had predicted. The amount is also significantly less than the 268,000 jobs that were added in February. Unemployment decreases from 7.7 percent in February to 7.6 percent in March. However, the decrease comes from more people leaving the labor force, not from new hires.

April 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of April 2013. *. Lesser-Known Bird Flu Kills Two in China (Apr. 1):Two men in Chinadie after contracting a type of lesser-known H7N9 strain of avian flu, also known as bird flu. The strain is Xinhua and has not previously been found in humans. A third person also has the strain and remains in critical condition.(Apr. 9):China officially confirms that the number of deaths from this strain of Bird Flu has climbed to nine. Officials also confirm that there are now 28 cases of this H7N9 virus. Despite the increase of cases, health officials urge people to remain calm because there is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted between humans. Officials do advise that people stay away from live poultry. As a precaution, thousands of birds are slaughtered at Shanghai wholesale markets after the H7N9 strain is found in a pigeon. *. Powerful Earthquake Kills 186 in China (Apr. 20):A strong earthquake strikes southwestern China. At least 186 people are killed and around 8,200 people are injured. The earthquake causes mountainsides to collapse. Available drinking water becomes a problem following the earthquake. Reports conflict on the magnitude of the earthquake. China's Earthquake Networks Center reports that the earthquake was a 7.0 magnitude, while the U.S. Geological Survey puts it at 6.6. *. Bangladesh Factory Building Collapses, Killing Hundreds (Apr. 24):A large building containing several factories collapses, killing at least 377 people. Hundreds more are missing in the building's rubble. Known as Rana Plaza, the factories within the building make clothing for European and American retailers such as JC Penny, Cato Fashions, Benetton and others. Bangladeshis second only to China as the world's leading garment exporter.(Apr. 29):For five days, rescue teams work to find survivors in the debris. A fire breaks out within the rubble making rescue efforts even more difficult. National outrage spreads due to reports of Rana Plaza's poor condition prior to its collapse. Officers arrest the building's owner, Sohel Rana, who is found hiding near the border of India. When his capture is announced at the site of the collapsed building, the crowd gathered there cheers. Rana Plaza employed more than 3,000 people and the building's collapse is considered the deadliest accident in the garment industry's history.

April 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of April 2013. *. Louisville Beats Michigan in Men's N.C.A.A. Title Game (Apr. 8):Louisville wins their first national title since 1986 and their third overall by beating Michigan 82-76. Louisville Cardinal Luke Hancock is named the Final Four's outstanding player. Louisville's win makes it the fifth time in N.C.A.A. history that schools from the same state have won titles back-to-back. Louisville follows rival school Kentucky's win last season. *. UConn Beats Louisville in Women's N.C.A.A. Title Game (Apr. 9):The University of Connecticut wins the N.C.A.A. women's championship game with a 93-60 rout over Louisville. With the win, Connecticut claims its eighth national title. Coach Geno Auriemma now has the same number of championships as Pat Summitt, his past rival. After the victory, Auriemma calls Summitt "the greatest women's basketball coach who ever lived." *. Multiple Bombs Explode during the Boston Marathon (Apr. 15):Multiple bombs explode near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Two bombs go off around 2:50 in the afternoon as runners finish the race. At least three people are killed. One is an eight year old boy. More than 170 people are injured. Another explosion happens during the afternoon at the JFK Library, but officials confirm that the incident is not connected. Later in the day, President Obamasays from the White House briefing room, "We still do not know who did this or why, and people shouldn't jump to conclusions before we have all the facts, but make no mistake: We will get to the bottom of this. Any responsible individuals, any responsible groups will feel the full weight of justice."(Apr. 18):President Obama speaks at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston's South End. After the service, both the president and First lady Michelle Obamavisit those injured in the explosions who are still recovering in the various hospitals throughout Boston. Later in the day, the FBI releases photos and video of two suspects in the hope that the public can help identify them. "Somebody out there knows these individuals as friends, neighbors, co-workers, or family members. Though it may be difficult, the nation is counting on those with information to come forward and provide it to us," says FBI special agent Richard DesLauriers upon the release of the photos and video. Just hours after the FBI releases the images, the two suspects rob a gas station in Central Square then shoot and kill a MIT police officer in his car. Afterwards, the two men carjack a SUV and tell the driver that they had set off the explosions at the marathon. Police pursue the vehicle into Watertown. During the shootout, a MBTA officer is shot and one of the suspects, identified as Tamerlan Tsarnaev, age 26, is killed. A suicide vest is found on his body.(Apr. 19):The other suspect, Dzhokhar A. Tsarnaev, age 19, remains at large for several hours, causing a massive manhunt and lockdown for all of Boston, Cambridge, and many other surrounding communities. The manhunt ends that evening when he is found alive, but seriously injured, hiding in a boat behind a house in Watertown. The two suspects are brothers and had been living together on Norfolk Street in Cambridge. They have lived in the U.S. for about a decade, but are from an area near Chechnya, a region in Russia. *. Letters Containing Ricin Sent to Congress, President Obama (Apr. 15):Paul Kevin Curtis of Tupelo, Miss., is arrested for sending letters contaminated with poison ricin to President Obama, a MississippiSenator Roger Wicker, an a local judge. The letters are intercepted by mail-sorting facilities.(Apr. 23):Charges against Paul Kevin Curtis are dismissed. Curtis is released as the investigation turns toward a new suspect.(Apr. 27):A new suspect, J. Everett Dutschke, is arrested in the ricin case. Dutschke has been charged with developing, producing, stockpiling, transferring, acquiring, retaining and possessing a biological agent to use as a weapon. *. Texas Plant Explodes, Killing a Dozen, Injuring Hundreds (Apr. 17):An explosion at a fertilizer plant in the town of West, Texas, kills 12 people and injures around 200 others. A section of the town is destroyed, including 50 homes. West, Texas is 80 miles south of Dallas. The explosion happens twenty minutes after a fire breaks out at the plant.

April 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of April 2013. *. North Korea's Kim Jong-un Defies Warnings (Apr. 1):Despite stiffer sanctions from the UN, Kim Jong-unannounces plans to expand North Korea's nuclear weapons and strengthen the country's economy. His plans defy warnings from the United States that North Koreaneeds to abandon its nuclear weapons arsenal. Kim prohibits South Korean workers from entering the Kaesong industrial park, which is run jointly by the two countries and is located in North Korea.(Apr. 3):At a rare plenary meeting of the Central Committee, Kim says North Korea will continue to develop its nuclear weapons program despite sanctions and restart the mothballed nuclear facility in Yongbyon.(Apr. 4):The U.S. announces it is deploying a missile defense system to Guam as a precautionary move. The deployment is two years ahead of schedule.(Apr. 5): South Koreareports that North Korea now has a missile within range of its coast, but the missile cannot reach the United States. *. Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad Resigns (Apr. 13):Prime Minister Salam Fayyadresigns in Palestineamid infighting among the top echelon of the Palestinian Authority and popular discontent. Fayyad is credited with cracking down on corruption in the West Bank, improving infrastructure, and boosting the economy, which resulted in an increase in international aid. It is unclear how Fayyad's resignation would affect the reconciliation of Fatah and Hamas. *. Special Election Held to Replace Chavez (Apr. 14):A special presidential election is held to pick Hugo Chavez's successor in Venezuela. Nicolás Maduro wins by a slim margin. Maduro receives 50.8 percent of the vote. Henrique Capriles Radonski, who recently lost to Chavez in the October 2012 election, is close behind with 49 percent.(Apr. 19):Maduro assumes office. Meanwhile, the opposition questions the constitutionality of his election. In naming his cabinet, Maduro keeps Elias Jaua on as foreign minister and Diego Molero as defense minister. Jaua and Molero served in the same roles under Chavez. *. Syria Faces Chemical Weapon Allegations (Apr. 18):Diplomats from both Britain and Francereport to the United Nations that there is credible information that the government in Syriahas used chemical weapons recently in its civil war. According to both diplomats, the Syrian government has used chemical weapons multiple times since December 2012. Officials from Israelalso say they have evidence that the Syrian government has used chemical weapons. President Obamahas said that the use of chemical weapons by Syria's government could lead to a military response by the United States. The U.S. is currently looking into the various claims. *. France Becomes 14th Nation to Approve Same-Sex Marriage (Apr. 23):The lower house in France's National Assembly votes 331 to 225 in favor of same-sex marriage. The legislation is expected to be approved by the Constitutional Council and signed into law by President François Hollande. The vote makes Francethe 14th nation in the world to pass legislation for same-sex marriage. Uruguayand New Zealandhave also both recently passed same-sex marriage legislation.

March 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of March 2013. *. Congress Fails to Stop Budget Cuts (Mar. 1):Congress and President Obamado not reach an agreement in time to stop the large budget cuts to federal spending. As the cuts go into effect, Congressional leaders pledge to end the disagreements over the federal budget that have threatened to shut down the government for the last two years. President Obama responds to the budget cuts in a news conference where he says, "I don't anticipate a huge financial crisis, but people are going to be hurt." *. The Supreme Court Debates Same-Sex Marriage (Mar. 26):The Supreme Court begins two days of historical debate over gay marriage. During the debate, the Supreme Court will consider overturning Proposition 8, the Californiainitiative banning same-sex marriage, and the Defense of Marriage Act, a federal law passed during Bill Clinton's presidency, which defines marriage as between a man and a woman. The Supreme Court's decision will be announced in June 2013.

March 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of March 2013. *. Economy Adds 236,000 Jobs in February and Unemployment Falls (Mar. 8):The jobs report is released for February 2013. U.S. employers add 236,000 new jobs in February, while unemployment falls to 7.7% from 7.9% in January. The solid report has a positive effect on stocks. The Dow Jones industrial average gains 67.58 points or 0.5% on the day the report is released.

March 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of March 2013. *. Scientists Confirm Higgs Boson (Mar. 14):Scientists confirm that the new particle discovered last year is the Higgs boson, the missing piece of physics' Standard Model that was first hypothesized in the 1960s. The announcement is made during the Rencontres de Moriond, a yearly conference, in Italy. In order to make the confirmation, physicists have collected tons of data and studied how the Higgs boson interacted with the other particles.

March 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of March 2013. *. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez Dies (Mar. 5):After 14 years at the helm of Venezuela, Hugo Chavezsuccumbs to cancer. Elections must be held within 30 days. Maduro will serve as interim president and will run in the election, likely against Henrique Capriles Radonski, who lost to Chavez in October's election. *. UN Passes More Sanctions Against North Korea (Mar. 8):In response to the North Korea's nuclear test last month, the UN Security Council unanimously passes another round of strict sanctions against North Korea. In a first, Chinais involved in drafting the sanctions. The sanctions come shortly after the U.S.and South Korea begin annual military drills near the north-south border. Reacting to the sanctions and the exercises, President Kim Jong-unpromises to launch "a pre-emptive nuclear strike" against the U.S. and South Koreaand says he has voided the 1953 armistice that ended the war between North and South Korea. Kim's threats are mostly dismissed as bluster, but are nevertheless the most menacing in years by any leader. He continues his bellicose tone throughout March and shuts down not only Red Cross hotlines between North and South Korea, but also military hotlines. At a rare plenary meeting of the Central Committee, Kim says North Korea will continue to develop its nuclear weapons program despite sanctions, saying the weapons ""are neither a political bargaining chip nor a thing for economic dealings."(Mar. 29):The U.S. responds to the growing threat from North Korea by continuing the military drills with South Korea, deploying F-22 stealth fighter jets and B-2 and B-52 bombers to the region in a show of its military strength. The U.S. also increases the number of ground-based ballistic missile interceptors in California and Alaska. *. Cardinals Choose Argentina's Jorge Mario Bergoglio to succeed Benedict as Pope (Mar. 13):Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglioof Argentinais elected as the new pope, succeeding Benedict XVI. Bergoglio, 76, becomes the Catholic Church's 266th pontiff. He is the first pope from Latin America, where 480 million Catholics live. Bergoglio receives the required two-thirds of the vote after just two days of the conclave. Accepting his election, Bergoglio chooses the name Francis. *. Xi Jingping Becomes President of China (Mar. 14):Xi Jingping assumes the presidency of China. Of the 2,956 delegates, only one votes against Xi. Three delegates abstain. Li Yuanchao is named vice president. Assuming the presidency completes the transition of power to Xi. This final step puts him in charge of all three centers of power in China. *. Obama Negotiates Reconciliation between Israel and Turkey (Mar. 22):President Obama visits Israeland helps negotiate a reconciliation with Turkey. During Obama's visit, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuexpresses sincere regret to Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's prime minister, for the commando raid in 2010 on a Turkish ship that killed nine people. Israel also offers compensation for the incident. Erdogan accepts Israel's apology. After the apology, both countries announce that they will reinstate ambassadors and completely restore diplomatic relations. President Obama supports the apology in this statement, "the United States deeply values our relationships with both Turkey and Israel, and we attach great importance to the restoration of positive relations between them, in order to advance regional peace and security." The press in Israel greets Obama's visit with enthusiasm. Multiple newspapers use the phrase he said in Hebrew during his visit, "You are not alone," as a headline. *. Cyprus Bailout Sparks Outrage and Protests (Mar. 24):The European Union(EU) and International Monetary Fund(IMF) offer a $13 billion bailout to Cyprus. The EU and IMF also requests that Cyprusraise $7.5 billion by taxing all bank deposits. Deposits over 100,000 euros will face a rate of 9.9%, while deposits less than that will be taxed 6.75%. The proposal sparks protests in Cyprus and outrage in Russia-many wealthy Russians put their money in Cyprus banks, which are not heavily regulated. Parliament rejects the bail-out, and the threat of Cyprus being ousted from the euro zone looms large. *. Italy Overturns Amanda Knox Acquittal (Mar. 26):A new trial is ordered by the Court of Cassation, Italy's highest court, for Amanda Knox, the exchange student from the U.S. who was accused of murdering Meredith Kercher, her 21-year-old roommate in 2007. The ruling means the case will be reheard, this time by a new appeals court in Florence. The new trial will be later this year or in 2014. Currently attending the University of Washington in Seattle, Knox releases a statement through a spokesman and calls the ruling "painful."

February 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of February 2013. *. Ravens Beat 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII (Feb. 3):In a wild game, which includes a 34 minute stadium blackout, the BaltimoreRavens beat the San Francisco49ers, 34-31. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is named MVP. The game, held in New Orleans, draws 108.4 million viewers, making it the third highest rated television program ever. *. Obama Addresses the Role of Government During State of the Union (Feb. 12):In the first State of the Union Address of his second term, President Obamafocuses on the role government should play in growing the economy and stabilizing the middle class. He veers away from any ambitious proposals such as a new stimulus plan in the speech. "Let me repeat: Nothing I'm proposing tonight should increase our deficit by a single dime. It's not a bigger government we need, but a smarter government that sets priorities and invests in broad-based growth," he says during the address. *. Republicans Back a Legal Brief Supporting Same-Sex Marriage (Feb. 27):In a policy shift for party members, several Republicans back a legal brief asking the Supreme Court to rule that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right. More than 100 Republicans are listed on the brief, including former New Hampshire Congressman Charles Bassand Beth Myers, a key adviser to Mitt Romney during his 2012 presidential campaign. The brief is filed as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to consider overturning Proposition 8, the California initiative banning same-sex marriage, as well as overturning the Defense of Marriage Act, a federal law passed during Bill Clinton's presidency, which defines marriage as between a man and a woman.

February 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of February 2013. *. Economy Adds 157,000 Jobs in January, but Unemployment Rises (Feb. 1):The jobs report is released for January 2013. U.S. employers add 157,000 new jobs in January, while unemployment rises to 7.9%, slightly higher than the 7.8% it was in December. Construction, retailing, health care, and wholesale trade all add significantly to the new job numbers in January.

February 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of February 2013. *. Winter Storm Nemo Hits the Northeast United States and Canada (Feb. 8):Two areas of low pressure collide to create Winter Storm Nemo, also referred to as the Blizzard of 2013. Boston, Massachusettsreceives 24.9 inches of snow, the fifth-highest snowfall in the city's recorded history. Portland, Mainegets 31.9 inches of snow, a record for the city. However, the highest snowfalls are in Connecticut. For example, Hamden, Connecticut, receives 40 inches. The storm also brings hurricane-like winds and flooding. At least 18 people are killed in the storm. *. Meteorite Fragments Injure Hundreds in Russia (Feb. 15):Debris from a meteor hit Siberia and more than 1,000 people are hurt, including 200 children. The injuries are mostly from shattered glass, which occurred when the meteor entered the atmosphere and exploded over Russia. Russian scientists believe that the 10-ton meteor exploded and created a shock wave when it hit the Earth's atmosphere. They believe the meteor exploded and evaporated about 30 miles above the Earth, but small fragments fell to the Earth's surface. Most of the people injured are residents of Chelyabinsk, a city about 950 miles east of Moscow. Chelyabinsk has many factories that build nuclear weapons, but the damage caused no radiation leaks, according to Russian officials.

February 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of February 2013. *. Suicide Bomber Hits U.S. Embassy in Turkey (Feb. 1):Ecevit Sanli detonates a bomb near a gate at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Turkey. Sanli dies after detonating the bomb. One Turkish guard is also killed. Didem Tuncay, a respected television journalist, is injured in the blast. Unlike the bombing at the embassy in Benghazi last September, the U.S. government immediately calls the bombing a terrorist attack. According to Turkish officials, the attack is from the Revolutionary People's Liberation Party, which has been labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S. and other nations. *. French President Makes Triumphant Visit to Mali (Feb. 2):French President Francois Hollandereceives a huge welcome when he arrives in Mali. Thousands of people come out to greet him with music and dance, chanting, "Vive la France!" During his visit, Hollande congratulates French and Malian troops on "an exceptional mission," after the troops chased Islamic extremists out of Mali's cities last month. While speaking to the troops, Hollande also admits that "the fight is not over." *. Pope Benedict XVI Announces He Will Resign (Feb. 11):The former Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, Pope Benedict XVIannounces his retirement, becoming the first pope to do so since 1415. He will retire on February 28. He cites advancing age and a growing physical weakness as his reasons for retirement. Speaking to a small group of cardinals at the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI says, "Before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited" for leading the Catholic Church. *. North Korea Appears to Detonate Third Nuclear Bomb (Feb. 12):North Korea says it has detonated a third nuclear bomb. World leaders, scientists, and intelligence officials rush to determine if the bomb is fueled by uranium or plutonium. Plutonium is used in earlier tests in 2006 and 2009, and officials say if uranium powered the bomb then it is a signal that North Koreais on its way to developing a larger and more powerful arsenal. The explosion is small compared to those detonated by China in the 1960s and the U.S. in 1945, but larger than North Korea's previous tests. *. Pistorius Arrested for Killing Girlfriend (Feb. 14):South African runner Oscar Pistoriusis arrested on Valentine's Day after police find his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, dead from multiple gunshot wounds in his apartment. Early news reports that Pistorius had mistaken his girlfriend for an intruder and accidently shot her, but by the end of the day he is charged with murder.(Feb. 19):On the same day as Steenkamp's funeral, Pistorius faces charges of premeditated murder in the Magistrate Court in Pretoria, South Africa. Pistorius denies murdering his girlfriend in an affidavit read by Barry Roux, his lawyer, "I fail to understand how I could be charged with murder, let alone premeditated. I had no intention to kill my girlfriend." *. Syrian Opposition Open to Talks, Excluding al-Assad (Feb. 15):The National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces announce that they are open to talks with members of the Syrian government in the hope of finding a political solution. However, the offer comes with conditions, mainly that Syria's president, Bashar al-Assadbe excluded. The opposition also wants military leaders to be excluded from the talks. Meanwhile, heavy fighting continues in Aleppo, a city in northern Syria where rebel fighters take control of a military base. *. Livni Joins Netanyahu's Coalition to Head Talks with Palestine (Feb. 19):Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuinvites former foreign minister Tzipi Livnito join his coalition and head Israel's peace talks with Palestine. Livni, who formed the Hatenuah party to run against Netanyahu in last month's election, will also serve as Justice Minister. Netanyahu and Livni make the announcement at a press conference, both saying they have set aside past disagreements and rivalries to work together. "I criticized the government's management over the past four years, but since the election, we've come to understandings to put all that aside," says Livni.

January 2013 Current Events: Business News. Here are the key events in business and science news for the month of January 2013. *. Economy Adds 155,000 Jobs in December; Unemployment holds steady (Jan. 4):U.S. employers added 155,000 new jobs in the month of December 2012, while unemployment stayed at 7.8%, the same as it was in November. The biggest job gains came in manufacturing, construction, food services and health care.

January 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News. Here are the key events in Science and Disasters news for the month of January 2013. *. Flu, Whooping Cough Hits U.S. Hard (Jan. 1):Three epidemics spread through the United States at the beginning of 2013. First there is the fluvirus, more aggressive than in recent years. There is also the worst whooping coughoutbreak in decades and a new type of norovirus.(Jan. 9):The flu outbreak in Boston, Mass., becomes so bad that Mayor Thomas M. Menino declares a public health emergency for the city. So far this year, Bostonhas had four flu-related deaths and 700 confirmed cases of the flu compared to 70 cases the city had at this time last year. The state of Massachusettshas had 18 flu-related deaths so far this winter. *. Wildfires and Record High Temperatures Strike Australia (Jan. 1):In January 2013, summer for Australia, wildfires spread throughout the southeastern part of the country. National parks are evacuated as temperatures reach 113 degrees Fahrenheit. The extremely high temperatures mix with dry and windy conditions combine to raise the threat level to catastrophic, the most severe rating. The country is having its hottest summer on record. So far there are no confirmed deaths due to the wildfires, but 100 people are missing after a fire rages through Dunalley, Tasmania, and destroys approximately 90 homes. Thousands of sheep and cattle are killed after the fires race through some of the country's biggest farming regions. *. Club Fire Kills 233 People in Brazil (Jan. 27):In the early morning hours, a fire breaks out in a nightclub in Santa Maria, a southern city in Brazil. The cause of the fire is a flare from pyrotechnics used by a band performing on stage at the club. At the time of the fire, the club is packed with hundreds of students from nearby universities. According to officials, at least 233 people are killed. The fire stuns the nation. President Dilma Rousseff immediately leaves a summit meeting in Chileand travels to Santa Maria to console the victim's families. As she leaves Chile, in tears, she says to reporters, "This is a tragedy for all of us."

January 2013 Current Events: U.S. News. Here are the key events in United States news for the month of January 2013. *. The Senate and House Approve Last Minute Budget Deal to Avoid Fiscal Cliff (Jan. 1):In the early hours of January 1, 2013, the Senate approve a deal to raise tax rates from 35 to 39.6 percent for those earning more than $400,000. The deal also temporarily suspends across-the-board spending cuts. Later that night, the House also passes the legislation. The House's vote ends the long dramatic showdown over the fiscal cliff with only a few hours left of the 112th Congress. *. Alabama Beats Notre Dame in BCS Championship Game (Jan. 7):Number two ranked Alabama rolls over top-ranked Notre Dame and wins its second straight national title. The 42-14 routing is also the Crimson Tide's third title in four years. *. President Obama Selects Nominees for Defense Secretary and CIA Director (Jan. 7):For CIA director, President Obamanominates John Brennan, the top counterterrorism adviser during the president's first term. Chuck Hagelreceives the nomination for defense secretary. Elected to the Senate in 1996 and retiring in 2008, Hagel is a Republican, a Vietnam veteran, and a longtime outspoken critic of President Bush's policies in Iraq. Hagel's nomination is met with opposition. Critics dislike how he once referred to pro-Israel lobbying groups as the "Jewish lobby" and how he referred to ambassador to Luxembourg nominee James C. Hormel as "openly, aggressively gay", a comment he made 14 years ago and apologized later for it. *. President Obama Proposes Sweeping Changes to Gun Control (Jan. 16):In response to recent massacres, including the killing of 20 first graders in Newtown, Conn., and 12 moviegoers in Aurora, Colo., President Barack Obama introduces proposals to tighten gun-control laws. His plan includes universal background checks for gun sales, the reinstatement and strengthening of the assault weapons ban, limiting ammunition magazines to a 10-round capacity, and other measures. Some of the measures outlined in his speech the president intends to achieve through 23 executive actions, while he called on Congress to do its part to enact stricter gun control legislation. *. President Obama Is Inaugurated for a Second Term (Jan. 21):On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President Obama is sworn in for a second term. Obama uses Dr. King's Bible as well as Abraham Lincoln's Bible to take the oath of office. He also becomes the first president to say the word gay in an Inaugural Address when he compares the battle for same-sex marriage to past battles over gender and racial equality. "Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law — for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well," Obama says in his address.

January 2013 Current Events: World News. Here are the key events in world news for the month of January 2013. *. French Troops Head to Mali (Jan. 1):In response to a plea from the Maligovernment, Francesends its military forces to the country to fight against extreme Islamist militants. French forces, including paratroopers, engage in combat in Mali with the Islamists militants. The exact number of French troops in Mali is unknown, but it is estimated to be between 800 and 900. French President Francois Hollandesays in a statement, "French forces brought their support to Malian army units to fight against terrorist elements. This operation will last as long as is necessary."(Jan. 17):France sends reinforcements, bringing the number of French troops in Mali to 1,400. Reinforcements are needed because the militants have seized much of the country and the battleground has expanded. *. More Than 60,000 Have Died in Syria's Civil War (Jan. 2):The United Nations releases information that more than 60,000 people have been killed during Syria's civil war, which has been going on now for 22 months. The report exceeds previous estimates of casualties. *. At Least 41 Engineers Are Held Hostage in Algeria (Jan. 16):Islamist militants take about 40 foreign hostages at a remote BP site in Algeria. At least sixty armed militants attack the BP gas field. Among the engineers who are taken hostage are several British and U.S. citizens. Many fear that the hostage situation is a result of the conflict in Mali.(Jan. 17):Algerian forces raid the site where the hostages are held. According to officials in Algeria, 37 hostages are killed in the raid, including three Americans. Also in the raid, 29 kidnappers are killed and three are captured. *. Election Shows a Slight Move Toward the Center for Israel (Jan. 22):As polls close in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuclaims victory for what will be his third term, but the election is not the expected landslide. The overwhelming favorite, Netanyahu is followed closely by Yair Lapid, who founded Yesh Atid, a new centrist party. With 99 percent of the vote in, Likud-Beiteinu, Netanyahu's party has 31 seats, followed by 19 seats for Lapid's party. Lapid, the host of a popular Israeli television show, says in a speech after the election, "The citizens of Israel today said no to politics of fear and hatred. They said no to the possibility that we might splinter off into sectors, and groups and tribes and narrow interest groups. They said no to extremists, and they said no to antidemocratic behavior." *. Protests Threaten Morsi Government (Jan. 25):Violent protests erupted throughout Egypton the second anniversary of the revolution. Demonstrators focus their ire on the Muslim Brotherhood and President Mohammed Morsi's government, frustrated that the country is on an ideologically conservative path under the Islamists and that Morsi has failed to bolster the economy or fulfill promises to introduce broader civil liberties and social justice. Dozens of people are killed in the violence at the protests. Morsi declares a state of emergency in three large cities: Suez, Ismailia, and Port Said.(Jan. 26):The violence is particularly gruesome in Port Said after 21 people are sentenced to death for their role in the deadly brawl at a Feb. 2012 soccer match that resulted in the death of about 75 people. Defying the state of emergency and attendant curfew, rioters, who are upset with the verdict, wreak havoc throughout the city, attacking police stations, a power plant and a jail. At least 45 people die in Port Said alone. News reports indicate the victims are shot by police. Police also reportedly shoot live ammunition and tear gas at protesters in other cities, including Cairo. *. Azarenka, Djokovic Repeat as Australian Open Champions (Jan. 26–27):Victoria Azarenka from Belarusdefeats Li Na of China, 4–6, 6–4,6–3 to win her second straight Australian Open Women's Singles Championship. Serbia's Novak Djokovicbeats Andy Murray of Scotland, 6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-2 to take the Men's Singles Championship. With the win, Djokovic becomes the first man in the 45-year-old Open era to win three consecutive singles titles at Australian Open. See also: Current Events: Business News, January 2013 Current Events: U.S. News, January 2013 Current Events: Disasters & Science News, January 2013 Recent Deaths People in the News

Highest Mountain Peaks of the World: The following table lists the highest mountain peaks of the world including mountain name, mountain range, vertical height, and location, according to the National Geographic Society. See Named Summits in the U.S. Over 14,000 Feet Above Sea Levelfor U.S. Peaks. See also Climbing the World's 14 8,000- meter Peaks, The Seven Summits, Mortals on Mount Olympus: A History of Climbing Everest, and the Everest Almanac. Mountain peakRangeLocationHeight ft.m Everest1 HimalayasNepal/Tibet29,0358,850 K2 (Godwin Austen) KarakoramPakistan/China28,2508,611 KanchenjungaHimalayasIndia/Nepal28,1698,586 Lhotse IHimalayasNepal/Tibet27,9408,516 Makalu IHimalayasNepal/Tibet27,7668,463 Cho OyuHimalayasNepal/Tibet26,9068,201 DhaulagiriHimalayasNepal26,7958,167 Manaslu IHimalayasNepal26,7818,163 Nanga ParbatHimalayasPakistan26,6608,125 AnnapurnaHimalayasNepal26,5458,091 Gasherbrum IKarakoramPakistan/China26,4708,068 Broad PeakKarakoramPakistan/China26,4008,047 Gasherbrum IIKarakoramPakistan/China26,3608,035 Shishma Pangma (Gosainthan)HimalayasTibet26,2898,013 Annapurna IIHimalayasNepal26,0417,937 Gyachung KangHimalayasNepal25,9107,897 Disteghil SarKarakoramPakistan25,8587,882 HimalchuliHimalayasNepal25,8017,864 NuptseHimalayasNepal25,7267,841 Nanda DeviHimalayasIndia25,6637,824 MasherbrumKarakoramKashmir225,6607,821 RakaposhiKarakoramPakistan25,5517,788 Kanjut SarKarakoramPakistan25,4617,761 KametHimalayasIndia/Tibet25,4467,756 Namcha BarwaHimalayasTibet25,4457,756 Gurla MandhataHimalayasTibet25,3557,728 Ulugh Muztagh KunlunTibet25,3407,723 KungurMuztagh AtaChina25,3257,719 Tirich Mir Hindu KushPakistan25,2307,690 Saser KangriKarakoramIndia25,1727,672 Makalu IIHimalayasNepal25,1207,657 Minya Konka (Gongga Shan)Daxue ShanChina24,9007,590 Kula KangriHimalayasBhutan24,7837,554 Chang-tzuHimalayasTibet24,7807,553 Muztagh AtaMuztagh AtaChina24,7577,546 Skyang KangriHimalayasKashmir24,7507,544 Ismail Samani Peak(formerly Communism Peak) PamirsTajikistan24,5907,495 Jongsong PeakHimalayasNepal24,4727,459 Pobeda Peak Tien ShanKyrgyzstan24,4067,439 Sia KangriHimalayasKashmir24,3507,422 Haramosh PeakKarakoramPakistan24,2707,397 Istoro NalHindu KushPakistan24,2407,388 Tent PeakHimalayasNepal24,1657,365 Chomo LhariHimalayasTibet/Bhutan24,0407,327 ChamlangHimalayasNepal24,0127,319 KabruHimalayasNepal24,0027,316 Alung GangriHimalayasTibet24,0007,315 Baltoro KangriHimalayasKashmir23,9907,312 Muztagh Ata (K-5)KunlunChina23,8907,282 ManaHimalayasIndia23,8607,273 BaruntseHimalayasNepal23,6887,220 Nepal PeakHimalayasNepal23,5007,163 Amne MachinKunlunChina23,4907,160 Gauri SankarHimalayasNepal/Tibet23,4407,145 BadrinathHimalayasIndia23,4207,138 NunkunHimalayasKashmir23,4107,135 Lenin PeakPamirsTajikistan/Kyrgyzstan23,4057,134 PyramidHimalayasNepal23,4007,132 ApiHimalayasNepal23,3997,132 PauhunriHimalayasIndia/China23,3857,128 TrisulHimalayasIndia23,3607,120 Korzhenevski PeakPamirsTajikistan23,3107,105 KangtoHimalayasTibet23,2607,090 NyainqentanglhaNyainqentanglha ShanChina23,2557,088 TrisuliHimalayasIndia23,2107,074 DunagiriHimalayasIndia23,1847,066 Revolution PeakPamirsTajikistan22,8806,974 Aconcagua AndesArgentina22,8346,960 Ojos del SaladoAndesArgentina/Chile22,6646,908 BoneteAndesArgentina/Chile22,5466,872 Ama DablamHimalayasNepal22,4946,856 TupungatoAndesArgentina/Chile22,3106,800 Moscow PeakPamirsTajikistan22,2606,785 PissisAndesArgentina22,2416,779 MercedarioAndesArgentina/Chile22,2116,770 HuascaránAndesPeru22,2056,768 LlullaillacoAndesArgentina/Chile22,0576,723 El LibertadorAndesArgentina22,0476,720 CachiAndesArgentina22,0476,720 KailasHimalayasTibet22,0276,714 IncahuasiAndesArgentina/Chile21,7206,620 YerupajaAndesPeru21,7096,617 KurumdaPamirsTajikistan21,6866,610 GalanAndesArgentina21,6546,600 El MuertoAndesArgentina/Chile21,4636,542 SajamaAndesBolivia21,3916,520 NacimientoAndesArgentina21,3026,493 IllampuAndesBolivia21,2766,485 IllimaniAndesBolivia21,2016,462 CoropunaAndesPeru21,0836,426 LaudoAndesArgentina20,9976,400 AncohumaAndesBolivia20,9586,388 CuzcoAndesPeru20,9456,384 (Ausangate) Toro AndesArgentina/Chile20,9326,380 Tres CrucesAndesArgentina/Chile20,8536,356 HuandoyAndesPeru20,8526,356 ParinacotaAndesBolivia/Chile20,7686,330 TortolasAndesArgentina/Chile20,7456,323 ChimborazoAndesEcuador20,7026,310 AmpatoAndesPeru20,7026,310 El CondorAndesArgentina20,6696,300 SalcantayAndesPeru20,5746,271 HuancarhuasAndesPeru20,5316,258 FamatinaAndesArgentina20,5056,250 PumasilloAndesPeru20,4926,246 SoloAndesArgentina20,4926,246 PollerasAndesArgentina20,4566,235 PularAndesChile20,4236,225 ChañiAndesArgentina20,3416,200 McKinley (Denali)AlaskaAlaska20,3206,194 AucanquilchaAndesChile20,2956,186 JuncalAndesArgentina/Chile20,2766,180 NegroAndesArgentina20,1846,152 QuelaAndesArgentina20,1286,135 CondoririAndesBolivia20,0956,125 PalermoAndesArgentina20,0796,120 SolimanaAndesPeru20,0686,117 San JuanAndesArgentina/Chile20,0496,111 Sierra NevadaAndesArgentina20,0236,103

Notable Explorers: Christopher Columbus Abruzzi, Luigi Amedeo, duca degli, Italian explorer and mountain climber Acuña, Cristóbal de, Spanish Jesuit missionary and explorer in South America Alarcón, Hernando de, Spanish explorer in the Southwest Amundsen, Roald, Norwegian polar explorer Andersson, Karl Johan, Swedish explorer in Africa Anza, Juan Bautista de, Spanish explorer and official in the Southwest and the far West Baffin, William, British arctic explorer Baker, Sir Samuel White, English explorer in Africa Balboa, Vasco Núñez de, Spanish conquistador, discoverer of the Pacific Ocean Barentz, Willem, Dutch navigator Barrow, Sir John, British geographer, promoter of arctic exploration Barth, Heinrich, German explorer in British service Bartlett, Robert Abram, American arctic explorer Beechey, Frederick William, British admiral and Arctic explorer Beke, Charles Tilstone, English explorer and author/dd> Bent, Charles, American frontiersman Bering, Vitus Jonassen, Danish explorer in Russian employ Block, Adriaen, Dutch navigator Bougainville, Louis Antoine de, French navigator Boyd, Louise Arner, American arctic explorer Bruce, James, Scottish explorer in Africa Bruce, William Speirs, Scottish explorer and authority on the polar regions Brulé, Étienne, English sea captain and antarctic explorer Burckhardt, Johann Ludwig or John Lewis, European explorer Burton, Sir Richard Francis, English explorer Byrd, Richard Evelyn, American aviator and polar explorer Cárdenas, García López de, Spanish explorer in the Southwest. Cabeza de Vaca, Álvar Núñez, Spanish explorer Cabot, John, English explorer Cabot, Sebastian, explorer in English and Spanish service Cabrillo, Juan Rodríguez, Spanish conquistador and discoverer of California Caillié, René, French explorer in Africa Cameron, Verney Lovett, English traveler in Africa Cano, Juan Sebastián del, Spanish navigator Cartier, Jacques, French navigator Carver, Jonathan, American explorer Chaillé-Long, Charles, American soldier, African explorer, and writer Champlain, Samuel de, French explorer, the chief founder of New France Chesney, Francis Rawdon, British soldier and explorer in Asia Clapperton, Hugh, British explorer Clark, William, American explorer Columbus, Christopher, European explorer Cook, Frederick Albert, American explorer and physician Cook, James, English explorer and navigator Coronado, Francisco Vásquez de, Spanish explorer Cortés, Hernán, Spanish conquistador da Gama, Vasco, Portuguese navigator Dampier, William, English explorer David, T.W.E., English navigator De Long, George Washington, American arctic explorer De Soto, Hernando, Spanish explorer Dias, Bartolomeu, Portuguese navigator Drake, Sir Francis, English navigator and admiral Du Chaillu, Paul Belloni, French-American explorer in Africa Duluth, Daniel Greysolon, sieur, French explorer in Canada Dumont d'Urville, Jules Sébastien César, French navigator Ellsworth, Lincoln, American explorer Emin Pasha, German explorer Entrecasteaux, Joseph Antoine Bruni d', French navigator Eric the Red, Norse chieftain, discoverer and colonizer of Greenland Frémont, John Charles, American explorer, soldier, and political leader Franklin, Sir John, British explorer Garnier, Marie Joseph François, French explorer and naval officer Gilbert, Sir Humphrey, English soldier Gosnold, Bartholomew, English explorer and colonizer Gray, Robert, American sea captain, discoverer of the Columbia River Greely, Adolphus Washington, American army officer and arctic explorer Hall, Charles Francis, American arctic explorer He, Zheng, explorer Hedin, Sven Anders, Swedish explorer in central Asia Henry the Navigator, prince of Portugal, patron of exploration Henson, Matthew Alexander, African-American arctic explorer Heyerdahl, Thor, Norwegian explorer and anthropologist Hillary, Sir Edmund Percival, New Zealand mountain climber and explorer. Hudson, Henry, English navigator and explorer Humboldt, Alexander, Freiherr von, German naturalist and explorer Ibn Batuta, Muslim traveler Johnson, Martin Elmer, American explorer and author Johnston, Sir Harry Hamilton, British explorer and colonial official Jolliet, Louis, French explorer Kane, Elisha Kent, American physician and arctic explorer Kotzebue, Otto von, Russian naval officer and explorer; La Salle, Robert Cavelier, sieur de, French explorer in North America Leif Ericsson, Norse discoverer of America Leo Africanus, Moorish traveler in Africa and the Middle East. Lewis, Meriwether, American explorer Livingstone, David, Scottish missionary and explorer in Africa Long, Stephen Harriman, American explorer Mackenzie, Sir Alexander, Canadian fur trader and explorer

Highest, Lowest, and Mean Elevations in the United States: StateElevation (ft.)1Highest pointElevation (ft.)Lowest pointElevation (ft.) Alabama500Cheaha Mountain2,405Gulf of MexicoSea level Alaska1,900Mt. McKinley20,320Pacific OceanSea level Arizona4,100Humphreys Peak12,633Colorado River70 Arkansas650Magazine Mountain2,753Ouachita River55 California2,900Mt. Whitney14,494Death Valley–2822 Colorado6,800Mt. Elbert14,433Arkansas River3,350 Connecticut500Mt. Frissell, on south slope2,380Long Island SoundSea level Delaware60Ebright Road, Del.–Pa. state line448Atlantic OceanSea level D.C.150Tenleytown, at Reno Reservoir410Potomac River1 Florida100Sec. 30, T6N, R20W, Walton County345Atlantic OceanSea level Georgia600Brasstown Bald4,784Atlantic OceanSea level Hawaii3,030Puu Wekiu, Mauna Kea13,796Pacific OceanSea level Idaho5,000Borah Peak12,662Snake River710 Illinois600Charles Mound1,235Mississippi River279 Indiana700Franklin Township, Wayne County1,257Ohio River320 Iowa1,100Sec. 29, T100N, R41W, Osceola County1,670Mississippi River480 Kansas2,000Mt. Sunflower4,039Verdigris River679 Kentucky750Black Mountain4,139Mississippi River257 Louisiana100Driskill Mountain535New Orleans–82 Maine600Mt. Katahdin5,267Atlantic OceanSea level Maryland350Backbone Mountain3,360Atlantic OceanSea level Massachusetts500Mt. Greylock3,487Atlantic OceanSea level Michigan900Mt. Arvon1,979Lake Erie572 Minnesota1,200Eagle Mountain2,301Lake Superior600 Mississippi300Woodall Mountain806Gulf of MexicoSea level Missouri800Taum Sauk Mountain1,772St. Francis River230 Montana3,400Granite Peak12,799Kootenai River1,800 Nebraska2,600Johnson Township, Kimball County5,424Missouri River840 Nevada5,500Boundary Peak13,140Colorado River479 New Hampshire1,000Mt. Washington6,288Atlantic OceanSea level New Jersey250High Point1,803Atlantic OceanSea level New Mexico5,700Wheeler Peak13,161Red Bluff Reservoir2,842 New York1,000Mt. Marcy5,344Atlantic OceanSea level North Carolina700Mt. Mitchell6,684Atlantic OceanSea level North Dakota1,900White Butte3,506Red River750 Ohio850Campbell Hill1,549Ohio River455 Oklahoma1,300Black Mesa4,973Little River289 Oregon3,300Mt. Hood11,239Pacific OceanSea level Pennsylvania1,100Mt. Davis3,213Delaware RiverSea level Rhode Island200Jerimoth Hill812Atlantic OceanSea level South Carolina350Sassafras Mountain3,560Atlantic OceanSea level South Dakota2,200Harney Peak7,242Big Stone Lake966 Tennessee900Clingmans Dome6,643Mississippi River178 Texas1,700Guadalupe Peak8,749Gulf of MexicoSea level Utah6,100Kings Peak13,528Beaverdam Wash2,000 Vermont1,000Mt. Mansfield4,393Lake Champlain95 Virginia950Mt. Rogers5,729Atlantic OceanSea level Washington1,700Mt. Rainier14,410Pacific OceanSea level West Virginia1,500Spruce Knob4,861Potomac River240 Wisconsin1,050Timms Hill1,951Lake Michigan579 Wyoming6,700Gannett Peak13,804Belle Fourche River3,099 United States2,500Mt. McKinley (Alaska)20,320Death Valley (California)–2822 1. Approximate mean elevation. 2. Below sea level. Source:U.S. Geological Survey.