2019 Year in Review: Top Events & Breakthroughs
Technology is always moving forward, but some years bring breakthroughs that fundamentally change how we live, work, and connect. From capturing the first-ever image of a black hole to the launch of game-changing consumer devices, 2019 was packed with innovation. These advancements put more power and possibility into our hands than ever before. Of course, all this new portable tech shares a common need: reliable energy to keep it running. This Year in Review 2019 looks at the incredible scientific and technological progress that defined the year, highlighting the growing importance of staying powered and prepared.
A Look Back at 2019: The Moments That Defined Our Year
Some years are marked by quiet, steady change, while others are defined by moments that shift our perspective on the world. 2019 was undoubtedly the latter. It was a year of political turbulence, incredible strides in human rights, and scientific breakthroughs that once seemed like pure science fiction. It was a year that challenged our assumptions and expanded our horizons, reminding us of both our shared vulnerabilities and our collective potential for greatness. Let's take a look back at the key events that shaped our world in 2019.
Major Events on the World Stage
From the halls of government to streets across the globe, 2019 was a year of significant political and social developments. Tensions ran high in the United States with a divided government and a looming presidential election, while internationally, important progress was made in the fight for equality and human rights. These events not only dominated headlines but also reflected the deep-seated changes occurring in societies worldwide, touching on everything from national policy to personal freedoms.
U.S. Politics and Government
The political landscape in the United States was particularly eventful, marked by institutional standoffs, high-profile investigations, and the formal start of the 2020 presidential race. These moments captured the nation's attention and set the stage for future political contests, creating a year of constant news and debate that kept everyone on their toes.
The Longest Government Shutdown
The year began with the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Lasting 22 days, it left around 800,000 federal employees without pay and disrupted numerous government services. The event served as a stark reminder of how quickly our routines can be disrupted, highlighting the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. For many families, this period underscored the need for self-reliance. Having essentials on hand, like a reliable way to keep your devices charged with portable power, becomes more than a convenience—it’s a necessity for staying connected when official systems are on pause.
National Emergency for Border Wall Funding
In February, the political friction continued when President Trump declared a national emergency to secure funding for a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. This move followed the stalemate that caused the government shutdown and was met with immediate legal and political challenges. Congress passed a resolution to block the declaration, but the President ultimately vetoed their attempt, underscoring the deep divisions within the government and sparking a national conversation about executive power.
The Mueller Report and Its Fallout
In March, Special Counsel Robert Mueller submitted his long-awaited report on Russian interference in the 2016 election. The findings, first summarized in a letter by Attorney General William Barr and later released in a redacted version, sparked intense debate and analysis across the political spectrum. The release of the report and the subsequent congressional testimonies became a central focus of American politics for much of the year, dominating news cycles and fueling partisan divides.
A New Congress and Speaker of the House
The 116th Congress was sworn in on January 3, with Nancy Pelosi returning to the role of Speaker of the House after eight years. This shift in leadership in the House of Representatives created a new dynamic in Washington, setting the stage for many of the legislative and political battles that would unfold throughout the year. The change signaled a new era of divided government and intensified the political tug-of-war between the White House and Capitol Hill.
The 2020 Presidential Race Begins
The race for the White House officially kicked off as a wide field of Democratic candidates announced their campaigns. Figures like Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, and Pete Buttigieg joined the growing list of contenders hoping to become the next U.S. president. This initiated a primary season that would captivate the nation, with a diverse array of voices and policy proposals entering the national conversation and setting the tone for the election year ahead.
Scandals in Virginia's Leadership
Virginia's state government was thrown into turmoil by a series of scandals affecting its top three elected officials. Governor Ralph Northam faced calls to resign over a racist photo in his medical school yearbook, while Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax was accused of sexual assault and Attorney General Mark Herring admitted to wearing blackface in college. The rapid succession of controversies created a leadership crisis in the state and sparked a broader discussion about accountability for past actions.
Resignation and Charges for Baltimore's Mayor
In Baltimore, Mayor Catherine Pugh resigned from office amid a corruption scandal involving her self-published "Healthy Holly" children's books. Federal prosecutors later charged her with fraud and tax evasion, alleging she used the book sales to conceal illegal payments and enrich herself. The scandal rocked the city's political establishment and led to a federal conviction, highlighting issues of public trust and political corruption at the local level.
The Passing of Congressman Elijah Cummings
In October, the nation mourned the loss of Maryland Congressman Elijah Cummings, who passed away at the age of 68. As the chairman of the powerful House Oversight Committee, he was a leading figure in Congress and a respected voice on civil rights and government accountability. His passing was felt deeply on both sides of the aisle, and he was remembered as a dedicated public servant and a fierce advocate for his Baltimore district.
Global Strides in Human Rights and Equality
While politics often felt divisive, 2019 also brought inspiring progress in human rights and equality around the globe. From marriage equality to women's rights, these victories demonstrated a growing global commitment to creating a more just and inclusive world. These moments offered a welcome counter-narrative, showing that positive change is always possible.
Expansion of Marriage Equality
The movement for marriage equality gained significant ground. Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, a landmark decision for the continent that was celebrated by activists worldwide. Following suit, both Ecuador and Northern Ireland also passed laws recognizing marriage equality, extending fundamental rights to more of their citizens and affirming that love is love, regardless of borders or backgrounds.
Saudi Arabia Eases Travel Restrictions for Women
In a major step forward for women's rights, Saudi Arabia announced that women would no longer need permission from a male guardian to travel or obtain a passport. For frequent travelers and advocates of freedom everywhere, this news represented a fundamental shift toward greater global mobility and personal autonomy. The reform was part of a broader series of changes aimed at modernizing the kingdom and expanding the role of women in society.
A Landmark Year for Diversity in Beauty Pageants
For the first time in history, all major international beauty pageants—Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and Miss America—were won by women of color. This powerful statement of Black beauty and excellence was celebrated as a milestone for representation on the world stage. The victories of these five women challenged traditional beauty standards and sent an inspiring message of inclusivity and empowerment to girls everywhere.
The WHO Redefines Transgender Health
The World Health Organization officially stopped classifying being transgender as a mental illness. By moving gender incongruence from its "mental disorders" chapter to a new chapter on "conditions related to sexual health," the WHO made a critical move to destigmatize transgender identities and affirm their validity. This change was hailed by human rights groups as a major victory for transgender people worldwide.
Women Taking Leadership Roles
Women continued to break barriers and assume powerful leadership positions across the globe. The Indian Navy welcomed its first female pilot, while Ursula von der Leyen was elected as the first female president of the European Commission. In Austria, Brigitte Bierlein became the country's first female chancellor. These appointments were significant steps toward gender parity in fields long dominated by men, from the military to the highest levels of government.
Indonesia Acts to Prevent Child Marriage
Indonesia took a decisive step to protect its children by raising the minimum age for brides from 16 to 19. This legal reform was a significant victory for activists who have long fought to end the harmful practice of child marriage in the country. The new law aimed to ensure that young women have the opportunity to complete their education and pursue their own futures, addressing a critical human rights issue.
Breakthroughs in Science and Technology
As a company driven by innovation, we were especially excited by the incredible leaps forward in science and technology during 2019. From capturing an image of the unseeable to redefining the limits of computing, researchers and engineers pushed the boundaries of human knowledge. These moments not only expanded our understanding of the world but also laid the groundwork for future technologies that will shape our lives in the years to come.
Pushing the Boundaries of Space and Science
The year delivered some truly awe-inspiring moments that expanded our understanding of the universe and our place in it. These achievements were the result of decades of work and global collaboration, reminding us of what we can accomplish when we work together toward a common goal. They stretched our imaginations and brought the wonders of the cosmos a little closer to home.
The First-Ever Image of a Black Hole
In a monumental scientific achievement, the Event Horizon Telescope project captured the first-ever direct image of a black hole. The stunning picture of a glowing, donut-like ring of light 55 million light-years away was a testament to human ingenuity and the power of international scientific cooperation. This incredible feat confirmed theories proposed by Albert Einstein over a century ago and gave humanity its first glimpse of one of the universe's most mysterious objects.
NASA's First All-Female Spacewalk
History was made 250 miles above Earth when NASA astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir conducted the first all-female spacewalk. The seven-hour mission to repair a power controller outside the International Space Station was a landmark moment for women in STEM and an inspiration for future generations of explorers. It was a powerful visual reminder that space exploration is an endeavor for all of humanity, and it shattered a symbolic barrier in a field where women have historically been underrepresented.
Google Claims Quantum Supremacy
The tech world was buzzing when Google announced its quantum computer, "Sycamore," had achieved quantum supremacy. The machine performed a calculation in just over three minutes that would take the world's most powerful classical supercomputers an estimated 10,000 years to complete. This exponential leap in processing power is what inspires us to keep pushing the limits of what's possible in our own field, like developing faster and more efficient charging with our ProSeries USB-C technology.
Water Found on an Exoplanet
For the first time, scientists detected water vapor in the atmosphere of an exoplanet orbiting within its star's habitable zone. The discovery on planet K2-18b, located 110 light-years away, was a thrilling development in the ongoing search for planets that could potentially support life. While the planet itself is likely not habitable for humans, finding water on a rocky world in the "Goldilocks zone" was a major step forward in understanding our place in the universe.
Testing Suspended Animation for Medical Procedures
What sounds like something from a sci-fi movie became a medical reality as doctors began testing a suspended animation technique on trauma patients. The procedure, which involves rapidly cooling a patient's body to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, is designed to buy surgeons more time to treat life-threatening injuries like gunshot or stab wounds. This groundbreaking trial could revolutionize emergency medicine and save countless lives in the future.
Advances in Health and Medicine
The field of medicine also saw remarkable progress, with breakthroughs offering new hope for treating and preventing some of the world's most challenging health issues. These advancements underscore the tireless work of researchers dedicated to improving and saving lives, bringing new treatments and preventative measures to people around the world.
Progress in the Fight Against HIV
A major study brought incredible news in the fight against HIV, confirming that antiretroviral drugs are so effective at suppressing the virus that they completely stop its sexual transmission. This finding, summarized by the phrase "Undetectable = Untransmittable," marked a pivotal moment in HIV prevention. It helped reduce stigma and provided a powerful tool to end the epidemic, changing the lives of millions of people living with the virus.
A Potential Early Blood Test for Alzheimer's
There was new hope for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers announced they are developing a blood test that could potentially identify signs of the disease up to 16 years before symptoms appear, opening the door for earlier intervention and treatment. While still in development, such a test would be a game-changer for diagnosing the neurodegenerative disease, allowing for clinical trials of preventative drugs at a much earlier stage.
Malaria Eliminated in Algeria and Argentina
The World Health Organization declared that Algeria and Argentina were officially free of malaria. This achievement was the result of decades of dedicated effort and investment in public health, proving that eliminating the deadly mosquito-borne disease is possible. The news provided a beacon of hope for other countries still battling malaria and demonstrated the effectiveness of sustained, community-focused health initiatives.
A Milestone in Organ Donation
In a medical first, a woman in Baltimore became the first living HIV-positive kidney donor. The successful transplant not only saved a life but also challenged long-held stigmas and opened up a new potential pool of organ donors. This groundbreaking procedure offered hope to thousands on transplant waiting lists, particularly the growing number of HIV-positive patients in need of a kidney.
New Year, New Tech
The year is finally over and a lot of things have changed in the world of technology. From brand new cellphones, to virtual reality gaming, and even to data processing, 2019 made significant strides in terms of tech available to consumers. We took some time to gather the best new tech and advancements of 2019.
Google Nest WiFi
As more and more technology becomes wireless, companies like Google have flourished and grown immensely. The Google Nest WiFi is a fantastic asset to those who have dead zones in their houses. Not only does it bring connectivity to all areas of the house, but it also doubles as a smart speaker.
These powerful little speakers are compatible with Google Assistant, and produce a high quality sound. These are great for anyone who uses voice activated assistants, and who enjoy being able to listen to music anywhere in the house.
They are also great for those who want to be able to use the WiFi anywhere in their homes. Some people prefer to use their laptops in different rooms than the main router, and this makes it much easier!
The Google Nest WiFi is a must have for tech lovers or casual user alike.
Apple Watch Series 5
This past fall, Apple released its latest version of wearable tech, in the Apple Watch Series 5. This smartwatch is a slight improvement over the Series 4, and boasts a few new features.
When the Series 4 was already the best, Apple came through with an even better product.
The main new feature of the Series 5, is the always on display. While this seems arbitrary, it is super convenient in relation to the past models. All previous models required you to tilt the screen as though you are reading it, for it to turn on.
New apps to monitor your health and even your heartbeat were released with the new watch and its updated software. This watch (and any updated to the current iOS) can even detect an irregular heartbeat and warn you.
If something were to happen to you, such as a hard fall, the Apple Watch can call help for you based of the collected data during the incident. Pretty cool if you ask me.
AirPods Pro
Apple released their newest version of the AirPod headphones in 2019, and they are amazing. These small, yet powerful ear buds are so sought after, they are on backorder for another month, and if you have an extra $300 or so, you can find them on Ebay.
The AirPods Pro model boasts a much welcomed boost in performance over the past models. They have noise cancellation, a better and more comfortable form, and improved grip.
Instead of the solid plastic feel that many had become accustomed to, Apple has released the Pro models with a rubberized grip for better sound quality and noise cancellation.
Many people are saying the AirPods Pro should be the new standard for wireless earbuds on the market!
Dell XPS 13 (7390)
This laptop is POWERFUL. With Intel's 10 Generation processor, you can get so much done in record time on this ultra-portable laptop.
Because it packs so much power, you can stream and game with extremely high quality images. The Dell XPS 13 has a 4K display, and it produces some amazing colors.
For those who like to Skype, the front facing webcam is high quality, paired with the 4K screen to bring the best possible experience. This laptop also has support for the newest generation of WiFi, WiFi 6.
These are just a few of our favorite tech advancements from 2019. It seems like as soon as we find a product that is nearly perfect, someone improves it. Let's hope the trend continues in 2020!
The Need for Reliable Power
With all this amazing new portable technology, the need for fast, dependable charging on the go became more important than ever. All the incredible devices that made waves in 2019—from the Apple Watch to the Dell XPS 13—share one common requirement: power. This growing reliance on portable tech is something we noticed firsthand. We saw how essential it was for travelers, busy professionals, and families to keep their devices running without interruption. That's why we focus on creating durable, cross-device charging solutions. We want to ensure you can keep everything running smoothly, whether you're using our ProSeries USB-C cables to power up your laptop or grabbing one of our fast portable power banks to stay connected on your next adventure.
Environmental and Conservation Wins
Beyond the world of tech and politics, 2019 also brought some genuinely positive news for our planet. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and the often-negative news cycle, but taking a moment to recognize these victories is a great way to stay optimistic and inspired. These stories highlight incredible progress in conservation and environmental protection, reminding us that collective efforts can lead to amazing outcomes. From the recovery of entire species that were on the brink of disappearing to significant policy changes that prioritize our planet’s health, there were several moments worth celebrating. These wins show a growing global awareness and commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations.
It’s important to shine a light on these successes because they serve as powerful motivation. They demonstrate that even long-standing environmental challenges can be addressed with dedication and innovation. Whether it’s a grassroots movement or a national policy shift, every action contributes to a larger positive impact. These stories from 2019 are not just feel-good headlines; they are proof that our choices matter and that we have the ability to protect and restore our environment. They give us a reason to be hopeful and to continue supporting the work that makes our world a better, healthier place for everyone.
Protecting Our Planet and Its Inhabitants
The good news from 2019 spanned the globe, touching everything from the deepest oceans to the highest levels of government. The year saw remarkable turnarounds for animal populations that many had written off, alongside landmark decisions by nations to protect their natural heritage. These weren't isolated incidents but part of a broader trend toward greater environmental responsibility. It’s inspiring to see this shift in priorities, where the long-term health of our ecosystems is given the attention it deserves. Each of these stories serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when people come together to protect our planet and the incredible diversity of life it supports.
Humpback Whales Make a Comeback
In what feels like a story straight out of a movie, it was reported that humpback whales in the South Atlantic have rebounded from the very brink of extinction. Decades of commercial whaling had decimated their numbers, reducing a massive population to just a few hundred individuals by the 1950s. Thanks to international protection efforts and conservation initiatives that began decades ago, their population has now grown to an estimated 25,000. This is a monumental success story for marine conservation, demonstrating that with sustained effort and global cooperation, we can help even the most vulnerable species recover and thrive once again.
A Greener Planet
It’s not just your imagination—the world is literally a greener place than it was two decades ago. A report from NASA, based on satellite data, revealed this surprising and hopeful trend. The study found that the planet's green leaf area has increased significantly, an effect largely driven by ambitious tree-planting programs in China and intensive agriculture in both China and India. While this doesn't offset all environmental challenges like deforestation in other regions, it's a powerful testament to the impact of large-scale greening efforts. It shows that human action can have a positive and measurable effect on our planet’s landscape.
Rediscovery of a "Lost" Tortoise Species
Imagine finding an animal that science had considered gone forever. That’s exactly what happened in the Galápagos Islands when researchers found a female Fernandina giant tortoise. This particular species hadn't been seen in over 100 years and was widely believed to be extinct. The discovery of a living member sparked immense excitement and hope within the conservation community. It’s a powerful reminder that we should never give up on protecting wildlife, as nature is full of surprises. This single tortoise represents a second chance for an entire species and highlights the critical importance of preserving unique habitats like the Galápagos.
The UK's Coal-Free Fortnight
In a major step toward a cleaner energy future, Great Britain went two full weeks without using any coal to generate its electricity. This marked the longest coal-free period for the country since the Industrial Revolution first began, a truly historic milestone. For a nation that was once the epicenter of coal-powered industry, this achievement signals a profound shift in energy policy and a serious commitment to reducing carbon emissions. It demonstrates that transitioning away from fossil fuels is not just a future goal but a present reality, setting a powerful example for other industrialized nations to follow.
Canada Bans Whale and Dolphin Captivity
Canada took a firm and compassionate stand for animal welfare by passing a landmark law that banned the practice of keeping whales, dolphins, and porpoises in captivity for entertainment. The legislation, celebrated by animal rights advocates across the globe, effectively ends the breeding and capture of these intelligent and social marine mammals for display in aquariums. This decisive action reflects a growing public understanding that these creatures belong in the wild, not in small tanks. It’s a significant victory for animal rights and sets a new ethical standard for how we interact with and respect the other inhabitants of our planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
This post covers so much more than just technology. What's the connection between world events and the need for reliable power? That's a great question. We see it all as interconnected. Events like the government shutdown show how quickly our normal routines can be disrupted, making personal preparedness—like having a charged phone to stay informed—incredibly important. At the same time, the amazing scientific and human rights progress we saw in 2019 often involves more people traveling, connecting, and using technology to share their stories. All of these moments, big and small, rely on the power that keeps our devices running and our lives moving forward.
You mentioned the government shutdown as a reason to be prepared. What are some other everyday situations where having reliable charging is crucial? While major events are a stark reminder, the need for reliable power shows up in our daily lives all the time. Think about frequent travelers navigating a new city, outdoor adventurers using GPS on a long hike, or a busy parent trying to keep tablets charged on a family road trip. Even a long day of meetings across town can leave you searching for an outlet. Having a dependable portable charger or a fast car charger isn't just for emergencies; it's about making sure your technology works for you, whenever and wherever you need it.
With all the new devices released in 2019, like the AirPods Pro and Dell XPS 13, how do I know which charger is right for what? It can definitely get confusing, especially since different devices have different power needs. A powerful laptop like the Dell XPS 13 requires a high-wattage charger, which is where something like our ProSeries USB-C cable comes in handy. It's designed to handle that higher power delivery safely and efficiently. For smaller devices like AirPods or a smartphone, a standard fast wall charger or portable power bank is perfect. The key is to match the charger's output to what your device needs for optimal, speedy charging.
Looking back at 2019, what's the biggest lesson we can take forward about our relationship with technology? The biggest takeaway for me is how deeply integrated technology has become in every part of our lives. It’s not just about the new phone in your pocket. It’s in the tools scientists use to photograph black holes, the health monitors on our wrists that can detect an irregular heartbeat, and the way we connect with global movements. As technology continues to advance, our reliance on it only grows. This makes the simple, fundamental need for consistent and reliable power more essential than ever before.
It's great to see the positive environmental news. How can we be more responsible consumers when it comes to our tech accessories? I love this question because it's something we think about a lot. One of the most effective ways to be a responsible tech consumer is to choose quality and durability over disposability. We've all dealt with cheap cables that fray or stop working after a few months, creating unnecessary e-waste. Investing in well-made, durable products that are built to last not only gives you a more reliable experience but also reduces the cycle of buying and throwing away. It's a small shift that makes a real difference.
Key Takeaways
- New Tech Demands Better Power: The wave of powerful new devices in 2019, from the Apple Watch Series 5 to the Dell XPS 13, proved that advanced technology requires equally advanced charging solutions. Keeping your gear running efficiently is essential to making the most of modern tools for work and life.
- Preparedness is a Practical Skill: Events like the record-long government shutdown served as a real-world reminder of how easily our routines can be disrupted. Having a plan and the right tools, like reliable portable power, is crucial for staying connected and self-reliant in any situation.
- Progress Comes in Many Forms: Beyond tech, 2019 was filled with inspiring progress in human rights and environmental conservation. These victories, from landmark equality laws to the recovery of endangered species, show that positive change is happening and is worth celebrating.
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