1987 vs. 1988

Attribute	1987	1988
Popular Movies	Top Gun, Dirty Dancing	Die Hard, Rain Man
Music Hits	"Walk Like an Egyptian" by The Bangles	"Faith" by George Michael
Technology	Introduction of Windows 2.0	Launch of the first commercial CD player
World Events	Stock market crash on Black Monday	End of the Iran-Iraq War

Introduction

When looking back at the 1980s, two years that stand out are 1987 and 1988. These years were filled with significant events, cultural shifts, and technological advancements that shaped the world we live in today. In this article, we will compare the attributes of 1987 and 1988, highlighting the key differences and similarities between these two pivotal years.

Economic Landscape

In 1987, the global economy was experiencing a period of growth and prosperity. The stock market was booming, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching record highs. However, this bullish market came to a crashing halt on October 19, 1987, when the stock market experienced a sudden and severe drop, known as Black Monday. This event sent shockwaves through the financial world and led to a period of uncertainty and volatility.

On the other hand, 1988 saw a more stable economic landscape. The stock market recovered from the crash of 1987, and the economy continued to grow. Unemployment rates were low, and consumer confidence was high. Overall, 1988 was a year of economic recovery and stability, in contrast to the turbulence of the previous year.

Political Climate

1987 was a year of political change and upheaval. In the United States, Ronald Reagan was serving his second term as president, and tensions with the Soviet Union were high. The Iran-Contra affair dominated headlines, revealing a complex web of covert operations and arms deals. Internationally, the world was still reeling from the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, which occurred in 1986.

By contrast, 1988 was a year of political transition. Ronald Reagan's presidency was coming to an end, and the country was gearing up for a new election. The Cold War was beginning to thaw, with the Soviet Union under the leadership of Mikhail Gorbachev pursuing a policy of glasnost and perestroika. The world was on the brink of significant geopolitical changes that would shape the future of international relations.

Cultural Trends

1987 was a year of cultural milestones and breakthroughs. The music scene was dominated by artists like Michael Jackson, U2, and Whitney Houston, who released iconic albums that defined the sound of the decade. In film, movies like "Dirty Dancing" and "Fatal Attraction" were box office hits, while television shows like "The Cosby Show" and "Cheers" were fan favorites.

1988 continued the cultural momentum of the previous year. Hip-hop music was on the rise, with artists like N.W.A and Public Enemy pushing the boundaries of the genre. In film, "Rain Man" won the Academy Award for Best Picture, while "Die Hard" became a classic action movie. The cultural landscape of 1988 was diverse and dynamic, reflecting the changing tastes and trends of the time.

Technological Advancements

1987 was a year of technological innovation. The first commercial GPS system was launched, revolutionizing navigation and mapping. The IBM PS/2 computer was released, setting new standards for personal computing. The world was introduced to the concept of the CD-ROM, which would soon become a ubiquitous storage medium.

1988 built upon the technological advancements of the previous year. The first transatlantic fiber optic cable was laid, improving global communication networks. The first digital camera was invented, paving the way for the digital photography revolution. The world was on the cusp of the internet age, with the first major computer virus, the Morris worm, spreading across networks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1987 and 1988 were two years that encapsulated the spirit of the 1980s. While 1987 was a year of economic turmoil and political upheaval, 1988 was a year of stability and transition. Both years were marked by cultural milestones and technological advancements that continue to shape our world today. By comparing the attributes of 1987 and 1988, we gain a deeper understanding of the events and trends that defined this pivotal decade.