2008 in the United States

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2008 in the United States was a year of big changes. The main stories were a severe financial crisis, a historic presidential election, natural disasters, and ongoing wars overseas.

Economy and money
- The housing market collapsed, leading to a major credit crisis.
- Several big banks failed or needed government help.
- Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy in September, a turning point in the crisis.
- The government created the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) to help banks and stabilize the economy.
- The stock market fell and unemployment rose.
- Gas prices rose early in the year, then fell later.

Elections and politics
- In November, Barack Obama won the presidency, becoming the United States' first Black president. Joe Biden was elected vice president.
- Obama was sworn in as president on January 20, 2009.

Disasters and wars
- Hurricanes Gustav and Ike caused damage and power outages along the Gulf Coast.
- The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan continued with ongoing debates about strategy.
- The 2008 Summer Olympics took place in Beijing; U.S. athletes won many medals.