2016

2016 was a leap year in the Gregorian calendar. It was marked by significant political events, ongoing conflicts, scientific advances, and notable cultural moments across the globe.

Several major political developments occurred: the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union in the Brexit referendum on June 23; the United States elected Donald J. Trump as the 45th president on November 8; and the Paris Agreement on climate change entered into force on November 4 after sufficient ratifications. In the Americas, the normalization of relations between the United States and Cuba continued following years of outreach begun in 2014; and Turkey faced a failed coup attempt in July that led to widespread political and security repercussions.

Security and conflicts: The Syrian civil war persisted with the siege of Aleppo drawing international attention. In Europe, a series of terrorist attacks occurred, including Brussels in March and Nice in July, and the Orlando nightclub shooting in the United States in June.

Disasters and environment: A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Ecuador in April, followed by powerful earthquakes in central Italy in August and October. The Fort McMurray wildfire in Canada caused extensive damage in May and June. Global temperature records were set, with 2016 described by several agencies as the warmest year on record at that time; climate scientists linked the rise to ongoing global warming.

Economy and society: The Panama Papers leak exposed offshore financial activities of many individuals and institutions. The Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics were held in August, and UEFA Euro 2016 was hosted by France, with Portugal winning the tournament. In technology and culture, Pokémon Go popularized mobile augmented reality in mid-2016.