History of Atlanta in Timeline

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Atlanta

Atlanta, the capital and largest city in Georgia, boasts a population exceeding 510,000 within its city limits, making it the 38th most populous city in the United States. As the heart of the Atlanta metropolitan area, it serves as home to over 6.3 million residents, securing its position as the sixth-largest metropolitan area in the US. Nestled among the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Atlanta's elevation surpasses 1,000 feet and is characterized by rolling hills, abundant greenery, and the highest urban tree density among major US cities.

1902: Construction of the Carnegie Library

The Carnegie Library, an important architectural landmark, was constructed in Atlanta in 1902.

1905: Construction of Terminal Station

Terminal Station, a significant architectural landmark, was built in Atlanta in 1905.

1906: Atlanta Race Riot

In 1906, racial tensions in Atlanta erupted into violence during the Atlanta Race Riot. White mobs attacked Black residents, resulting in at least 27 deaths and over 70 injuries, along with extensive damage to Black neighborhoods.

1912: Italy Seizes Rhodes

In 1912, Italy seized the Isle of Rhodes from Turkey, leading to the migration of Sephardic Jews from Rhodes to Atlanta.

1913: Leo Frank Trial

Leo Frank, a Jewish-American factory superintendent, was convicted in 1913 of murdering a 13-year-old girl in a highly publicized trial marked by antisemitism.

1914: Braves Win First World Series

The Boston Braves won their first World Series championship in 1914.

1915: Lynching of Leo Frank

In 1915, after his sentence was commuted to life in prison, Leo Frank was abducted from jail by an organized lynch mob and hanged in Marietta, Georgia, horrifying the Jewish community in Atlanta and nationwide.

May 21, 1917: The Great Atlanta Fire

On May 21, 1917, a devastating fire, known as the Great Atlanta Fire, swept through Atlanta, destroying 1,938 buildings in the area now known as the Old Fourth Ward. The fire resulted in one fatality and displaced 10,000 people.

December 15, 1939: "Gone with the Wind" Premiere

The world premiere of the epic film "Gone with the Wind," based on Margaret Mitchell's best-selling novel set in Atlanta, took place on December 15, 1939, at Loew's Grand Theatre in Atlanta. Notably absent was African-American actress Hattie McDaniel, who won an Oscar for her role, due to segregation laws.

1939: Release of "Gone with the Wind"

The classic film "Gone with the Wind," set in Atlanta, was released in 1939, becoming a landmark moment in cinematic history.

January 23, 1940: Heaviest Snowfall

On January 23, 1940, Atlanta received its heaviest single snowfall on record, accumulating around 10 inches.

1946: Tri-Cities Blackhawks Founded

The team that would eventually become the Atlanta Hawks was founded in 1946 as the Tri-Cities Blackhawks in Moline, Illinois.

1948: First Black Police Officers Hired

In 1948, Atlanta hired its first eight African-American police officers, marking a significant step in the city's history.

1950: Merger of The Atlanta Journal and The Atlanta Constitution

The Atlanta Journal and The Atlanta Constitution merged in 1950, eventually becoming The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

1956: Controversial Sugar Bowl Game

The 1956 Sugar Bowl game between the Pitt Panthers, featuring African-American fullback Bobby Grier, and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets sparked controversy over racial integration in college football and Georgia Governor Marvin Griffin's opposition to it. Despite the controversy, the game proceeded as scheduled.

1956: 1956 Sugar Bowl and Atlanta Riots

The 1956 Sugar Bowl, a significant sporting event, took place in Atlanta, coinciding with a period of racial tension that culminated in the '56 Atlanta riots, a dark chapter in the city's history.

1957: Braves Win Second World Series

The Milwaukee Braves secured their second World Series title in 1957.

1959: Desegregation of Public Transportation

Public transportation in Atlanta was desegregated in 1959.

1960: Racial Demographics of Atlanta

In 1960, Whites made up 61.7% of Atlanta's population.

1961: Resistance to Blockbusting and the "City Too Busy to Hate"

In 1961, Atlanta attempted to combat racially motivated real estate practices known as blockbusting by erecting road barriers in Cascade Heights, contrasting with efforts by civic and business leaders to promote Atlanta as the "city too busy to hate."

1961: Desegregation of Rich's Department Store Restaurant

The restaurant at Rich's department store in Atlanta was desegregated in 1961.

1963: Desegregation of Movie Theaters

Movie theaters in Atlanta were desegregated in 1963.

1966: Falcons Founded in Atlanta

The Atlanta Falcons were established in 1966, marking the beginning of their presence in the city.

1966: Braves Move to Atlanta

The Braves, one of the oldest professional sports franchises in the US, moved to Atlanta in 1966.

1966: Construction of the State of Georgia Building

The State of Georgia Building, an example of modern architecture, was erected in Atlanta in 1966.

1967: Professional Soccer Arrives in Atlanta

Professional soccer was first played in Atlanta in 1967.

1968: Atlanta Chiefs Win NASL Championship

Atlanta's first professional soccer team, the Atlanta Chiefs, won the North American Soccer League Championship in 1968.

1968: Hawks Move to Atlanta

The Hawks moved to Atlanta from St. Louis in 1968.

1969: Atlanta International Pop Festival

Atlanta hosted the Atlanta International Pop Festival in 1969, a significant countercultural event that predated Woodstock and featured many of the same bands.

1970: African Americans Become Majority in Atlanta

By 1970, African Americans constituted the majority of Atlanta's population, leading to increased political influence and the election of the city's first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson, in 1973.

1971: Demolition of the Equitable Building

Atlanta's Equitable Building, originally constructed in 1892, was demolished in 1971, marking a loss for the city's architectural heritage.

1972: Demolition of Terminal Station

Atlanta's Terminal Station, a notable architectural landmark constructed in 1905, was demolished in 1972.

1972: Atlanta Flames Begin Play

The Atlanta Flames, Atlanta's first NHL franchise, began playing in 1972.

January 7, 1973: Most Severe Ice Storm

On January 7, 1973, Atlanta experienced its most severe ice storm, causing significant disruptions and damage.

1973: Desegregation of Public Schools

Atlanta's public schools were desegregated in 1973, nearly two decades after the U.S. Supreme Court declared segregated public schools unconstitutional.

1973: Start of Decline in Tree Canopy Coverage

Atlanta's tree canopy coverage began to decline in 1973.

1973: Maynard Jackson Elected Mayor

Maynard Jackson was elected as Atlanta's first Black mayor in 1973.

1973: Start of Consecutive Black Mayors

Since 1973, every elected mayor of Atlanta has been Black.

1974: Study Reveals Decline in Atlanta's Tree Coverage

A 2001 study revealed a concerning decline in Atlanta's tree coverage, dropping from 48% in 1974 to 38% in 1996. This decline raised alarms about the impact of urbanization and environmental factors on the city's urban forest.

1975: Construction Begins on Atlanta Subway System

Construction of Atlanta's subway system commenced in 1975.

1975: Start of Gentrification in Atlanta

Following the successful opposition to the construction of two freeways through the city's east side, Atlanta began to experience gentrification in 1975, initially concentrated in the areas that would have been impacted by the freeway projects.

1976: Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Free Bird" at the Fox Theatre

Lynyrd Skynyrd recorded their famous live version of "Free Bird" at Atlanta's Fox Theatre in 1976, with lead singer Ronnie Van Zant urging the band to "play it pretty for Atlanta".

1976: Opening of Georgia World Congress Center

The Georgia World Congress Center opened in Atlanta in 1976, further solidifying the city's status as a major convention destination.

1977: Demolition of the Carnegie Library

Atlanta's Carnegie Library, built in 1902, was demolished in 1977, representing another loss for the city's architectural heritage.

1977: Release of "Smokey and the Bandit"

The action comedy "Smokey and the Bandit," partly set in Atlanta, was released in 1977, gaining popularity for its car chases and Southern charm.

1979: Atlanta Subway System Begins Operation

Atlanta's subway system began operating in 1979.

1979: Release of "The Dukes of Hazzard"

The action comedy film "The Dukes of Hazzard" hit theaters in 1979, featuring car chases and stunts set against the backdrop of the American South.

1980: Flames Relocate to Calgary

The Atlanta Flames relocated to Calgary in 1980, becoming the Calgary Flames.

1980: Falcons First Division Title

The Falcons clinched their first division title in 1980.

1981: Release of "Sharky's Machine"

The neo-noir action thriller "Sharky's Machine," set and filmed in Atlanta, premiered in 1981, showcasing the city's darker side.

1982: Staff Consolidation of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution underwent staff consolidation in 1982.

1982: Construction of the Georgia-Pacific Tower

The Georgia-Pacific Tower, another illustration of modern architecture in Atlanta, was built in 1982.

1985: Release of "The Slugger's Wife"

The romantic comedy-drama "The Slugger's Wife," set in Atlanta, was released in 1985, exploring themes of love, ambition, and baseball.

1985: Trees Atlanta Founded

Trees Atlanta, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and expanding Atlanta's tree canopy, was established in 1985.

1987: Completion of One Atlantic Center

Completed in 1987, One Atlantic Center stands as an early example of postmodern architecture in Atlanta, characterized by its tapering spire.

1989: Release of "Driving Miss Daisy"

The critically acclaimed film "Driving Miss Daisy," set and filmed in Atlanta, was released in 1989, depicting the unlikely friendship between an elderly Jewish woman and her African American chauffeur.

1990: Expansion of Gentrification Due to Olympic Games

After Atlanta was chosen to host the 1996 Olympic Games in 1990, gentrification spread to new areas of the city, fueled by infrastructure development undertaken in preparation for the event.

1990: Population Decline and Office Space Growth

Between 1970 and 1990, Atlanta experienced a population decline of over 100,000 residents (over 20%), while simultaneously witnessing a surge in office space development as it attracted numerous corporations, leading to an influx of workers from other regions.

1990: Beginning of Demographic Shift

In 1990, African Americans constituted a significant 67% of Atlanta's population, marking the beginning of a period of demographic change in the city.

1990: Census Data Reveals Mexican Population Concentration

The 1990 census revealed a growing concentration of Mexicans along the Buford Highway and I-85 corridor in Atlanta.

1991: Construction of 191 Peachtree Tower

The 191 Peachtree Tower, completed in 1991, is another prominent example of postmodern architecture in Atlanta, recognized by its distinctive ornamented crown.

1991: Start of Braves' Dominant Run

The Atlanta Braves began an impressive streak of 14 consecutive divisional championships in 1991.

1992: Completion of Bank of America Plaza and Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

Two significant architectural projects were completed in Atlanta in 1992. The Bank of America Plaza, designed by John Portman, became the city's tallest building, reaching 1,023 feet. The Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, also designed in a postmodern style, features a noticeable ornamented crown.

1993: Tree Protection Ordinance Enacted

In 1993, Atlanta implemented a citywide ordinance requiring developers to pay fees when removing trees from their properties. This measure aimed to mitigate tree loss due to construction and development.

1994: Atlanta Hosts Super Bowl XXVIII

Atlanta hosted Super Bowl XXVIII in 1994.

1994: Renee Lewis Glover's Tenure as AHA CEO Begins

Renee Lewis Glover began her tenure as CEO of the Atlanta Housing Authority (AHA) in 1994, marking a period of significant transformation for public housing in the city.

1995: Braves Win Third World Series

The Atlanta Braves achieved victory in the 1995 World Series, marking their third championship win.

1996: Study Reveals Decline in Atlanta's Tree Coverage

A 2001 study revealed a concerning decline in Atlanta's tree coverage, dropping from 48% in 1974 to 38% in 1996. This decline raised alarms about the impact of urbanization and environmental factors on the city's urban forest.

1996: Atlanta Hosts Centennial 1996 Summer Olympics

Atlanta hosted the Centennial 1996 Summer Olympics.

1996: Legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympics

Centennial Olympic Park was established as a lasting legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympics, becoming a central point in the city's tourist area.

1996: 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta

In 1996, Atlanta hosted the Summer Olympics. The city experienced transportation and accommodation challenges, and a bombing occurred in Centennial Olympic Park. However, the event marked a turning point in Atlanta's history and left a lasting impact on the city's development.

1996: Previous Low for Home Prices

In January 2012, Atlanta's home prices dropped to levels not witnessed since 1996, indicating the severity of the housing market decline.

1996: Investments Following the Olympics

The 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta spurred significant investments in the city, contributing to a rebound in its White population after years of decline.

1996: Gentrification and the Olympics

The 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta spurred gentrification in some of the city's neighborhoods, a trend that intensified in the 21st century with the development of the Atlanta Beltline.

1998: Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Becomes World's Busiest

In 1998, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta earned the distinction of being the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic, a position it has held every year since, except for 2020.

1998: Falcons Win NFC Championship

The Atlanta Falcons emerged victorious in the NFC Championship game in 1998.

1998: Atlanta Silverbacks Formed

The Atlanta Silverbacks were established in 1998 to play in the new North American Soccer League.

1999: End of Period with Significant Loss of Tree Coverage

By 1999, Atlanta had experienced a significant loss of tree canopy coverage.

1999: Falcons Lose Super Bowl XXXIII

The Atlanta Falcons faced defeat in Super Bowl XXXIII in 1999, losing to the Denver Broncos.

1999: Atlanta Thrashers Begin Play

The Atlanta Thrashers, Atlanta's second NHL franchise, started playing in 1999.

2000: Continued Gentrification and Redevelopment Post-Olympics

After the 2000 Olympic Games, Atlanta continued to experience gentrification, further driven by the Atlanta Housing Authority's redevelopment initiatives that replaced public housing with mixed-income housing. Additionally, the construction of the BeltLine project spurred new development and revitalization efforts along its route.

2000: Atlanta Hosts Super Bowl XXXIV

Atlanta hosted Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000.

2000: Beginning of White Population Growth

Between 2000 and 2020, Atlanta experienced a period of substantial growth in its White population.

2000: Influx of Young Professionals

From 2000, Atlanta saw a notable influx of young, college-educated professionals, particularly in the downtown area. This demographic trend, similar to other cities, contributed to the changing landscape of the city.

2000: Peak of African American Population

In 2000, Atlanta's African American population reached its peak, representing 61% of the city's total population.

2000: Cycling Commutes in Atlanta

In 2000, cycling represented a mere 0.3% of all commutes in Atlanta.

2001: Study Reveals Decline in Atlanta's Tree Coverage

A 2001 study revealed a concerning decline in Atlanta's tree coverage, dropping from 48% in 1974 to 38% in 1996. This decline raised alarms about the impact of urbanization and environmental factors on the city's urban forest.

2001: Shirley Franklin Becomes First Female Mayor

Shirley Franklin made history in 2001 by becoming Atlanta's first female mayor and the first African-American woman to lead a major Southern city.

2001: Crime Rate Decrease

The Atlanta Police Department oversaw a significant 40% decrease in the city's crime rate between 2001 and 2009.

2001: Atlanta Hosts PGA Championship

The PGA Championship, one of golf's four major championships, was held in Atlanta in 2001.

2001: End of Separate Publication for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The separate publication of the morning Constitution and afternoon Journal editions of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution ceased in 2001.

2003: Atlanta Magazine Publishes Findings on Dialect Shift

In 2003, Atlanta magazine published an article concluding that the city's dialect had become significantly "de-Southernized" due to an influx of migrants from other parts of the country.

2003: Atlanta Gladiators Begin Play

The Atlanta Gladiators, a minor league hockey team, started playing in the Atlanta suburb of Duluth in 2003.

2004: Falcons Win Division Title

The Falcons secured another division title in 2004.

2005: BeltLine Project Approved

Atlanta's city government gave the go-ahead for the ambitious $2.8 billion BeltLine project in 2005. The project aimed to repurpose a 22-mile abandoned freight railroad loop encircling the city center into a vibrant multi-use trail and light rail system, significantly expanding the city's green spaces.

2005: End of Braves' Championship Streak

The Atlanta Braves' impressive run of 14 straight divisional championships came to an end in 2005.

2006: Conviction of Mayor Bill Campbell

Mayor Bill Campbell was found guilty by a federal jury in 2006 on three counts of tax evasion linked to gambling winnings during trips with city contractors.

2006: Release of "ATL"

The coming-of-age drama "ATL," set in Atlanta, was released in 2006, offering a glimpse into the lives of teenagers navigating life, love, and roller skating in the city.

March 14, 2008: EF2 Tornado Hits Downtown

On March 14, 2008, an EF2 tornado touched down in downtown Atlanta, damaging several prominent structures.

2008: Impact of the Financial Crisis

The 2008 financial crisis disproportionately affected Atlanta's economy compared to other American cities, leading to economic struggles.

2009: Continued Growth of Young Professionals Downtown

By 2009, the area within a three-mile radius of downtown Atlanta experienced a 61% increase in residents aged 25 to 34 with at least a four-year degree, highlighting the continuing trend of young professionals moving to the city center.

2009: Increase in Cycling Commutes

Cycling as a mode of transportation in Atlanta more than doubled since 2009, rising to 1.1% of all commutes, up from 0.3% in 2000.

2009: Crime Rate Decrease

The Atlanta Police Department oversaw a significant 40% decrease in the city's crime rate between 2001 and 2009.

2010: Majority of New Residents are White

Between 2010 and 2020, the majority of new residents moving to Atlanta identified as White.

2010: Start of Decline in New African American Residents

Between 2010 and 2020, there was a notable decline in the number of African Americans moving to Atlanta, with only 9% of new residents belonging to this demographic.

2010: Atlanta as a Top Tourist Destination

By 2010, Atlanta became the seventh most visited city in the United States, attracting over 35 million visitors annually, drawn to its historical significance and attractions.

2010: Significant Demographic Changes in Atlanta

By 2010, Atlanta's demographics significantly shifted, with the African American population decreasing to 54% while the city gained a notable number of white, Asian, and Hispanic residents. This change was largely attributed to a thriving economy attracting new residents.

2010: Transformation of Public Housing

By 2010, the Atlanta Housing Authority (AHA), under the leadership of Renee Lewis Glover, had demolished a significant portion of the city's public housing, representing about 10% of all housing units. This move aimed to redevelop these sites for mixed-use and mixed-income purposes.

2010: Start of Employment Contraction

From 2010 to 2011, Atlanta saw a 0.9% decrease in employment, highlighting the economic challenges the city faced.

2010: Growth in Immigrants from Asia and Jamaica

Since 2010, Atlanta has witnessed a significant increase in immigrants from countries like India, China, South Korea, and Jamaica.

2010: Falcons Win Division Title

The Falcons continued their success with another division title win in 2010.

2011: Brookings Institution Study on Transit Accessibility

A 2011 Brookings Institution study ranked Atlanta 91st out of 100 metro areas in terms of transit accessibility.

2011: Plateauing Income Growth

Atlanta experienced stagnating income growth at 0.4% from 2010 to 2011, further illustrating the economic difficulties the city encountered.

2011: Atlanta Hosts PGA Championship and WrestleMania

Atlanta hosted two major events in 2011: the PGA Championship, one of golf's four majors, and WrestleMania, professional wrestling's biggest event.

2011: The New York Times Recognizes Atlanta's Emerging Culinary Scene

In 2011, The New York Times recognized Atlanta's growing reputation as a sophisticated restaurant town, highlighting establishments like Empire State South and Miller Union for their modern take on Southern cuisine.

2011: Thrashers Relocate to Winnipeg

The Atlanta Thrashers relocated to Winnipeg in 2011 and became the Winnipeg Jets.

2011: "The Change-Up" Filmed in Atlanta

The comedy "The Change-Up" was filmed in Atlanta, demonstrating the city's versatility as a filming destination.

January 2012: Housing Market Decline

Atlanta's housing market struggled with home prices dropping 2.1% in January 2012, reaching levels not seen since 1996.

February 2012: Record Drop in Home Prices

In February 2012, Atlanta experienced the most significant annual drop in average home prices (17.3%) ever recorded for an American or global city, leading some economists to consider it the worst housing market in the nation.

June 30, 2012: Highest recorded temperature in Atlanta

Atlanta experienced its highest recorded temperature on June 30, 2012, reaching a scorching 106 degrees Fahrenheit.

2012: Construction of Atlanta's First "Bike Track"

Atlanta's inaugural "bike track" was built on 10th Street in Midtown in 2012, stretching from Monroe Drive west to Charles Allen Drive and connecting to the Beltline and Piedmont Park.

2012: Atlanta Ranked 6th Most Dangerous City

Forbes ranked Atlanta as the 6th most dangerous city in the United States in 2012.

2012: Rapid IT Job Growth

In 2012, Atlanta experienced a 4.8% growth in IT jobs, ranking it as the sixth fastest-growing city for this sector and adding nearly 16,000 jobs in three years.

2012: Falcons Win Division Title

The Falcons achieved a division title victory in 2012.

2012: Georgia Aquarium's Reign as World's Largest

Until 2012, the Georgia Aquarium held the title of the world's largest indoor aquarium, serving as a major attraction for visitors to Atlanta.

2013: Atlanta's Growing IT Sector

By 2013, Atlanta held the fourth-largest concentration of IT jobs in the US, with over 85,000 positions, solidifying its nickname as the "Silicon Peach".

2013: Federal Grant for BeltLine's Southwest Corridor

In 2013, the BeltLine project received $18 million in federal funding to focus on the development of its southwest corridor.

2013: End of Renee Lewis Glover's Tenure as AHA CEO

Renee Lewis Glover concluded her term as CEO of the Atlanta Housing Authority (AHA) in 2013, leaving a legacy of significant changes in the city's approach to public housing.

January 2014: Last recorded temperature below 10 degrees Fahrenheit

On January 2014, Atlanta experienced one of its coldest days on record with temperatures dipping below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This was eight years before the next recorded instance of such low temperatures.

September 2014: Economic Impact of the 2008 Financial Crisis

A September 2014 report ranked Atlanta's economy 68th out of 100 American cities due to the impact of the 2008 financial crisis, which led to high unemployment, declining income, and a struggling housing market.

2014: Report on Atlanta's Educated Workforce

In 2014, a report highlighted Atlanta's highly educated workforce, stating that 45% of adults aged 25 and older in the city held at least a four-year college degree.

2014: Pew Research Center Study on Religious Affiliation

In 2014, a study by the Pew Research Center found that approximately 63% of Atlanta residents identified as Protestant.

2014: Opening of the Atlanta Streetcar

The Atlanta Streetcar, also referred to as the Downtown Loop, commenced public operations in 2014, covering a 2.7-mile (4.3 km) loop around downtown tourist spots.

2014: Release of "Ride Along"

The buddy cop comedy "Ride Along," set and filmed in Atlanta, was released in 2014, becoming a box office success.

2015: Atlanta Households Without a Car

In 2015, 15.2% of Atlanta households did not own a car.

2015: "Ant-Man" Filmed in Atlanta

The Marvel film "Ant-Man" was filmed in Atlanta, showcasing the city's popularity as a filming location.

June 2016: Launch of Relay Bike Share

Atlanta's first bike sharing program, Relay Bike Share, was introduced in June 2016, initially with 100 bikes in the Downtown and Midtown areas.

2016: Commuting Patterns in Atlanta

According to the 2016 American Community Survey (five-year average), 68.6% of employed Atlanta residents commuted by driving alone, 7% carpooled, 10% used public transportation, and 4.6% walked.

2016: "Captain America: Civil War" Filmed in Atlanta

Atlanta served as a filming location for the Marvel film "Captain America: Civil War", further solidifying its status as a hub for film production.

2016: Preservation of the Atlanta-Fulton Central Library

In a victory for preservationists, the Atlanta City Council voted against demolishing the Atlanta-Fulton Central Library in 2016. The building, the last designed by renowned architect Marcel Breuer, was saved from destruction thanks to the efforts of activists.

2016: Falcons Win NFC Championship

The Atlanta Falcons emerged triumphant in the NFC Championship game in 2016.

2016: Increase in Atlanta Households Without a Car

The percentage of Atlanta households without a car saw a slight increase to 16.4% in 2016.

January 2017: Atlanta Declares Itself a "Welcoming City"

In January 2017, Atlanta officially declared itself a "welcoming city," emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity and openness to all individuals.

April 2017: Expansion of Relay Bike Share

By April 2017, Relay Bike Share had expanded to 500 bikes distributed across 65 stations.

2017: Atlanta United FC Begins Play

Atlanta United FC, Atlanta's first premier-division professional soccer club since the Chiefs, began playing in 2017.

2017: Atlanta's Abundant Tree Coverage Recognized

In 2017, Atlanta's remarkably high vegetation coverage of 47.9% earned it recognition from National Geographic as a "Place of a Lifetime." This distinction highlighted the city's unique urban forest and its positive impact on the environment and quality of life.

2017: Film and Television Production Boom

In 2017, film and television production contributed $9.5 billion to Georgia's economy, with Atlanta receiving a large portion of the projects thanks to the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act's tax incentives.

2017: Public School Attendance in Annexed Territory

In 2017, only nine children residing within the area annexed from DeKalb County were enrolled in public schools.

2017: Atlanta Fire Rescue Department Responds to Over 100,000 Calls

The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) responded to over 100,000 calls for service in 2017, covering a vast area of 135.7 square miles.

2017: Braves Move to Truist Park

The Braves moved to Truist Park in 2017, leaving their previous home at Turner Field.

2017: Falcons Move to Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The Falcons made the move to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017, leaving behind their former home, the Georgia Dome.

2017: Release of "Baby Driver"

The action crime film "Baby Driver," partially set and filmed in Atlanta, was released in 2017, captivating audiences with its unique blend of music, action, and romance.

January 1, 2018: Annexation of the CDC

Effective January 1, 2018, the City of Atlanta annexed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) into its territory.

March 2018: Cyberattack on Atlanta

In March 2018, Atlanta was targeted in a significant cyberattack, highlighting the increasing vulnerability of cities to digital threats.

September 21, 2018: Atlanta Awarded Major League Rugby Team

On September 21, 2018, it was announced that Atlanta would be getting a Major League Rugby team, Rugby ATL, for the 2020 season.

2018: Atlanta United Wins MLS Cup

Atlanta United FC emerged victorious in the MLS Cup in 2018, defeating the Portland Timbers 2-0.

2018: Atlanta Hosts College Football Playoff National Championship

Atlanta hosted the College Football Playoff National Championship in 2018.

2018: "Black Panther" and "Avengers: Infinity War" Filmed in Atlanta

Atlanta hosted the filming of two major Marvel films in 2018: "Black Panther" and "Avengers: Infinity War", highlighting its prominence in the film industry.

2018: Housing Market Resurgence

By 2018, Atlanta's real estate market had rebounded significantly, with median home values and rent growth exceeding national averages due to the region's robust economic growth.

2018: Annexation of Portion of DeKalb County

In 2018, the City of Atlanta annexed an area from DeKalb County, which included the Centers for Disease Control and Emory University.

September 2019: $6 Million Grant for BeltLine Trail Connection

In September 2019, the James M. Cox Foundation awarded a $6 million grant to the PATH Foundation, aimed at connecting the Silver Comet Trail to the Atlanta BeltLine. This connection was expected to be finished by 2022, creating one of the most extensive paved trail systems in the United States.

December 2019: Miss Universe 2019 Pageant in Atlanta

Atlanta hosted the Miss Universe 2019 pageant in December 2019, showcasing the city's role as a venue for global events and celebrations.

2019: Atlanta Hosts Super Bowl LIII

Atlanta was the site of Super Bowl LIII in 2019.

2019: ASUN Conference Moves to Atlanta

The ASUN Conference decided to establish its headquarters in Atlanta in 2019.

2019: Atlanta Legends Join AAF

The Atlanta Legends, an Alliance of American Football team, was formed in Atlanta in 2019, but the league folded during its first season.

2020: Public Religion Research Institute Study on Religious Identification

According to a 2020 study by the Public Religion Research Institute, 73% of Atlanta's population identified with some form of Christianity.

2020: Atlanta Hosts NCAA Final Four Men's Basketball Championship

Atlanta hosted the NCAA Final Four Men's Basketball Championship in 2020.

2020: City's Transportation Plan for Bike Lanes

Atlanta's transportation plan aims to construct 226 miles (364 km) of bike lanes by 2020, with the BeltLine project playing a crucial role in achieving this goal.

2020: Continued Growth of White Population

By 2020, Atlanta's White population had grown to 39% of the city's total, reflecting a notable increase from its standing in 2000.

2020: Decline in African American Population Share

By 2020, the African American population in Atlanta had decreased to 47% of the city's total, marking a significant decline from its peak in 2000.

2020: Exception to Hartsfield-Jackson's Reign

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport did not hold its usual title as the world's busiest airport in 2020.

2020: Rugby ATL Joins Major League Rugby

Rugby ATL, Atlanta's expansion team, officially joined Major League Rugby for the 2020 season.

2020: 2020 United States Census

The 2020 United States Census recorded Atlanta's population as 510,823, making it the eighth most populous city in the Southeast and 38th most populous in the United States.

2020: Atlanta Marathon and U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials

The Atlanta Marathon in 2020 coincided with the U.S. Olympic marathon trials for the 2020 Summer Olympics.

March 31, 2021: Atlanta Rhinos Turn Professional

On March 31, 2021, the Atlanta Rhinos rugby league team decided to become a fully professional team, joining the newly formed North American Rugby League.

2021: Atlanta's Gross Domestic Product

Atlanta's nominal gross domestic product (GDP) reached $473 billion in 2021, ranking it as the eleventh largest economy among U.S. cities and the 22nd largest globally.

2021: Norfolk Southern Headquarters Move

In 2021, major freight railroad Norfolk Southern moved their headquarters to Atlanta, solidifying the city's importance in the logistics industry.

2021: Braves Win Fourth World Series

The Atlanta Braves clinched their fourth World Series title in 2021.

2021: Atlanta Dream Relocate to College Park

The Atlanta Dream of the Women's National Basketball Association moved to a new arena in College Park, a suburb of Atlanta, in 2021.

2021: Opening of Westside Park at Bellwood Quarry

Westside Park at Bellwood Quarry, spanning 280 acres, opened in 2021, becoming the city's largest park.

January 3, 2022: Andre Dickens Begins Mayoral Term

Andre Dickens, a Democrat, assumed office as the mayor of Atlanta on January 3, 2022, marking the start of his first term.

June 16, 2022: Atlanta Selected to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup Matches

On June 16, 2022, Atlanta was chosen as one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a testament to the city's growing global prominence and capacity to host major international events.

December 24, 2022: Last recorded temperature below 10 degrees Fahrenheit

On December 24, 2022, Atlanta experienced one of its coldest days on record with temperatures dipping below 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

2022: Passenger Traffic at Hartsfield-Jackson

An estimated 93.7 million passengers traveled through Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in 2022.

2022: Significant Increase in Gang-Related Charges

Atlanta experienced a dramatic 200% surge in gang-related charges in 2022.

2022: Announcement of Film on 1956 Events

In 2022, it was announced that a film about the 1956 Sugar Bowl and the '56 Atlanta riots would be produced in Atlanta, shedding light on a pivotal moment in the city's history.

2022: Median Income and Poverty Rate Data

In 2022, the median income for a household in Atlanta was recorded as $77,655, while the per capita income was $60,778. The poverty rate for the year was 17.7%.

2022: Expected Completion of BeltLine and Silver Comet Trail Connection

The connection between the Atlanta BeltLine and the Silver Comet Trail was projected to be completed by 2022. This connection was set to create the longest continuous paved trail in the US, covering approximately 300 miles and further solidifying Atlanta's commitment to green spaces and recreation.

2023: Atlanta Drops Out of Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities, Gang Violence Persists

By 2023, Atlanta was no longer included in Forbes' list of the top 10 most dangerous cities. However, the city continued to grapple with gang-related crime. Money Inc. ranked Atlanta as the third worst city for gang activity in the U.S., with an estimated 1,000 gangs in the area believed to be responsible for a significant portion of crime, including identity theft, credit card fraud, and human trafficking.

2023: The Trust for Public Land ParkScore Ranking

In 2023, The Trust for Public Land ranked Atlanta's park system 28th out of the 100 most populous U.S. cities in its ParkScore ranking.

2023: Atlanta Metropolitan Area Population Estimate

In 2023, the Atlanta metropolitan area was estimated to be home to more than 6.3 million people, making it the sixth-largest metropolitan area in the United States.

2023: US Soccer Federation Moves to Atlanta

The United States Soccer Federation relocated its headquarters from Chicago to Atlanta in 2023.

2024: Transition to Atlanta Public Schools

The annexed portion of DeKalb County will remain under the DeKalb County School District until 2024, when it will transition into the Atlanta Public Schools (APS) system.

2025: Atlanta to Host College Football Playoff National Championship

Atlanta has been chosen to host the College Football Playoff National Championship again in 2025.

2026: Atlanta to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup Matches

Atlanta has been selected as one of the eleven US host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

2026: FIFA World Cup in Atlanta

Atlanta is scheduled to host matches for the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

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