Moments of the Decade

UPDATED 12/28/2009 at 01:00 AM EST • Originally published 12/28/2009 at 01:00 AM EST

2002

MARCH 24

Halle Berry is the first African-American woman to win a Best Actress Oscar.

2002

SEPT. 4

Kelly Clarkson takes the first American Idol crown.

2004

FEB. 1

Janet Jackson's wardrobe faux pas at the Super Bowl halftime show shocks the nation.

2004

Gary Brolsma (a.k.a. the "Numa Numa" guy) becomes the poster boy for YouTube icons.

2005

MAY 23

Tom Cruise jumps on Oprah's couch after falling for Katie Holmes.

2006

SEPT. 5

Katie Couric takes over as CBS Evening News anchor.

2007

JUNE 3

Paris Hilton goes to jail for 23 days.

2008

JULY 12

Brad and Angelina welcome twins.

2008

AUG. 17

Michael Phelps wins eight gold medals—a new record.

2008

NOV. 4

Barack Obama is elected the first African-American President.