History of Atlanta in Timeline
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.
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.
