Breaking news 2004

Here are some of the top news stories from 2004:

Politics

• The 2004 United States presidential election is held on November 2, with incumbent President George W. Bush defeating Democratic challenger John Kerry.
• The Iraq War continues, with the US and its allies fighting against insurgents in Iraq.
• The European Union expands to include 10 new member states, including Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.

Terrorism

• The Madrid train bombings occur on March 11, killing 191 people and injuring over 1,800.
• The Beslan school siege takes place in Russia, resulting in the deaths of over 330 people, including 186 children.
• The US and its allies launch Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, targeting Taliban and al-Qaeda forces.

Disasters

• The Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami occur on December 26, affecting several countries in Southeast Asia and causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
• Hurricane Ivan makes landfall in the United States, causing significant damage and flooding in Florida and other states.
• A heat wave in Europe causes widespread deaths and health problems, particularly in France and Italy.

Business

• The dot-com bubble bursts, leading to a significant decline in the value of technology stocks.
• The US Federal Reserve cuts interest rates to stimulate the economy.
• The European Central Bank raises interest rates to combat inflation.

Entertainment

• The film "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" is released, starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet.
• The TV show "Lost" premieres on ABC, becoming a huge hit and running for six seasons.
• The music group OutKast releases the album "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below", which goes on to win several Grammy Awards.

Sports

• The Boston Red Sox win the World Series, ending an 86-year drought without a championship.
• The New England Patriots win Super Bowl XXXVIII, led by quarterback Tom Brady.
• The Athens Olympics take place in Greece, with the US winning the most medals.

These are just a few of the many news stories from 2004. It was a significant year for politics, terrorism, disasters, and entertainment, among other areas.