With 2016 coming to a close, it seems like this may have been the worst year ever to some people. However, here are 11 great events to look back on with joy.
1. The US women's gymnastics team won gold:
These amazing girls dominated.
2. The tiger population has increased for the first time in 100 years:
Around 3,890 tigers now reside in the wild, up from about 3,200 in 2010.
3. Women and people of color will now be featured on paper money:
Harriet Tubman will replace Andrew Jackson as the the face on the US $20 bill.
4. The US presidential election inspired people:
Regardless of who you voted for, the 2016 presidential election ignited citizens like never before.
5. The Paris Agreement was signed:
The Paris Agreement brings nations together in efforts to combat and strengthen the global response to climate change.
6. Giant Pandas are no longer endangered:
The giant panda has been lowered from "endangered" to "vulnerable" on the global list of species at risk of extinction.
7. Leo finally got his Oscar:
Not only did Leonardo DiCaprio finally receive his long-awaited award, but he also used his shining moment to promote the importance and urgency of climate change.
8. FSU beat UF in football:
31-13 baby.
9. Construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline was suspended after protests at Standing Rock:
After months of protests at the Standing Rock site, the Army Corp of Engineers announced, "it will look for an alternate route for the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under Lake Oahe in North Dakota."
10. Solar Impulse 2 flew around the world:
The solar powered plane flew 40,000 km to promote renewable energies and energy efficiencies on the ground.
11. Chicago Cubs won the World Series:
The first time the Cubs won since 1908.