14 Times One Decision Changed the Course of History
These big decisions changed how the world works today.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
One choice can change everything. This list looks at 14 moments in history when a single decision led to major changes. Some brought progress, while others caused conflict or surprise. These choices still affect how we live now.
1. Washington’s Bold Crossing of the Delaware
Gilbert Stuart on Wikimedia Commons
On December 25, 1776, General George Washington made the daring decision to cross the icy Delaware River, leading to a surprise attack on Hessian forces in Trenton. This bold move reinvigorated the American Revolutionary cause at a time when morale was low, showcasing the power of decisive leadership in altering the course of history.
2. Signing the Declaration of Independence
Scan by NYPL on Wikimedia Commons
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, severing ties with Britain. This act not only birthed a new nation but also inspired future movements for self-determination worldwide, emphasizing the profound impact of asserting sovereignty.
3. The Storming of the Bastille
Jean-Pierre Houël on Wikimedia Commons
On July 14, 1789, Parisians stormed the Bastille prison, symbolizing the uprising against the monarchy and igniting the French Revolution. This decisive act challenged the existing social order and set the stage for modern democracies.
4. Establishing Judicial Review: Marbury v. Madison
swatjester; cropped by Beyond My Ken (talk) 22:51, 7 April 2010 (UTC) on Pexels
In 1803, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review, allowing courts to strike down unconstitutional laws. This pivotal ruling defined the balance of power among U.S. government branches.
5. Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation
Alexander Gardner on Wikimedia Commons
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring freedom for slaves in Confederate states. This executive order redefined the Civil War’s purpose and paved the way for the abolition of slavery in the U.S.
6. Brown v. Board of Education Ends School Segregation
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In 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Brown v. Board of Education that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. This landmark decision was a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement, emphasizing equality in education.
7. Kennedy’s Stand During the Cuban Missile Crisis
Cecil Stoughton, White House on Wikimedia Commons
In October 1962, President John F. Kennedy’s decision to impose a naval blockade on Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis averted a potential nuclear war. His measured response exemplified the importance of strategic decision-making in global diplomacy.
8. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech
Nobel Foundation on Wikimedia Commons
On August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, advocating for civil rights and equality. This moment galvanized public support and propelled legislative changes in the U.S.
9. The Fall of the Berlin Wall
Lear 2 on Wikimedia Commons
On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, symbolizing the end of the Cold War and the reunification of Germany. This event marked a significant shift towards democratic governance in Eastern Europe.
10. Nelson Mandela’s Release and South Africa’s Transformation
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In 1990, Nelson Mandela was released after 27 years in prison, leading to the end of apartheid in South Africa. His subsequent election as president in 1994 marked a new era of reconciliation and democracy.
11. The 9/11 Attacks and Global Response
Robert on Flickr on Wikimedia Commons
On September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the U.S. led to significant global political and security changes. The ensuing decisions reshaped international relations and counterterrorism strategies.
12. Barack Obama’s Historic Inauguration
Photo of Pres. Barack Obama
On January 20, 2009, Barack Obama was sworn in as the first Black president of the United States. His election represented a major milestone in American history and symbolized progress in civil rights and inclusion.
13. The Brexit Vote
Andrew Curtis on Wikimedia Commons
In June 2016, the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, a decision known as Brexit. This monumental choice has reshaped political, economic, and diplomatic dynamics in Europe and beyond.
14. Global Lockdowns During the COVID-19 Pandemic
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In early 2020, nations around the world imposed lockdowns to slow the spread of COVID-19. These decisions reshaped daily life, disrupted economies, and redefined public health strategy for generations to come.