# Breaking news: The Top World Events of 2020
In a year filled with unprecedented challenges and global turmoil, 2020 will be remembered as a year that changed the course of history. From the COVID-19 pandemic to political unrest and social justice movements, the world saw a series of events that will have lasting impacts for years to come. Here, we take a look at some of the top world events of 2020.
## COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, swept across the world in 2020, infecting millions and causing widespread death and disruption. The virus first emerged in Wuhan, China in late 2019, and quickly spread to other countries, leading to global lockdowns, travel restrictions, and economic turmoil. The pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of healthcare systems and exposed the inequalities in access to healthcare and resources.
## U.S. Presidential Election
In November 2020, the United States held a presidential election that was one of the most contentious and polarizing in recent history. The incumbent president, Donald Trump, faced off against former Vice President Joe Biden in a race that divided the nation along political lines. Biden was ultimately declared the winner, becoming the 46th President of the United States. The election saw record voter turnout and accusations of voter fraud and irregularities.
## Black Lives Matter Protests
Following the death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed by a white police officer in Minneapolis in May 2020, the Black Lives Matter movement gained renewed momentum and worldwide attention. Protests erupted across the United States and around the world, calling for an end to police brutality and systemic racism. The protests sparked conversations about race, inequality, and social justice, and led to calls for police reform and accountability.
## Brexit
After years of negotiations and political turmoil, the United Kingdom officially left the European Union on January 31, 2020, in a historic event known as Brexit. The move marked the end of a decades-long relationship between the UK and the EU, and has since brought about new trade agreements, border controls, and challenges for both sides. Brexit has divided the UK and raised questions about the future of the European Union.
## Wildfires and Natural Disasters
In 2020, the world saw a series of devastating wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters that wreaked havoc on communities and ecosystems. Australia experienced its worst wildfire season on record, with millions of acres burned and billions of animals killed. Hurricanes and tropical storms pummeled the Caribbean and the southern United States, causing widespread damage and displacement. The year also saw an increase in extreme weather events and climate-related disasters, raising concerns about the urgent need for climate action.
## FAQs
### Q: What were the major world events of 2020?
A: Some of the major world events of 2020 included the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. presidential election, the Black Lives Matter protests, Brexit, and natural disasters.
### Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact the world?
A: The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread death, disruption, and economic turmoil around the world. It led to global lockdowns, travel restrictions, and overwhelmed healthcare systems.
### Q: What were the key issues in the Black Lives Matter protests?
A: The Black Lives Matter protests focused on calling for an end to police brutality, systemic racism, and inequality. They sparked conversations about race, justice, and social reform.
### Q: What were some of the challenges of Brexit?
A: Brexit brought about new trade agreements, border controls, and challenges for both the United Kingdom and the European Union. It has divided the UK and raised questions about the future of Europe.