1989 Hurricane Hugo makes a direct hit just north of Charleston. Dozens of people are killed by the storm, and nearly seven billion dollars of property is destroyed. At the time, it is the costliest hurricane to hit the nation (Hurricane Andrew surpasses the record when it hits southern Florida in 1993).

1990 The FBI launches Operation Lost Trust to expose corruption in South Carolina’s state government. Nearly thirty legislators and lobbyists plead guilty to bribery, drugs, and other offenses. The result of the controversy is a widespread movement to clean up the state government.

1995 The Citadel makes national headlines when it accepts Shannon Faulkner as a new cadet. She becomes the first female to enter the previously all-male military college.

2002 The ongoing Clemson / University of South Carolina rivalry is highlighted when the 100^th football game is played between the two colleges. Clemson edges out USC by a score of 27 to 20.

2004 South Carolina residents support President George W. Bush in the presidential election. Bush successfully wins re-election to the office.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1) The information shown above can best be compared to which of these?

a. an index

b. a journal entry

c. a timeline

d. a dedication

2) The information shown above is organized in which of the following ways?

a. by chronological sequence

b. by national popularity

c. by historical importance

d. by random order

3) The passage shown above was most likely intended for which audience?

a. hurricane survivors from South Carolina

b. students studying South Carolina history

c. residents in Florida who were born in South Carolina

d. students who plan to apply to a college in South Carolina

4) In the above passage, why are some words in bold type?

a. The terms highlight the important points.

b. The terms were first used by the author.

c. The terms are usually listed as different names

d. The terms are repeated over and over.

Answer Key