Some of the major events and highlights of 2014 include:

• Sochi Winter Olympics: The 22nd Winter Olympics were held in Sochi, Russia.
• Ebola outbreak: A widespread outbreak of the Ebola virus occurred in West Africa, killing over 11,000 people.
• Rise of ISIS: The terrorist group ISIS rose to power in Iraq and Syria, capturing large swaths of territory and committing widespread atrocities.
• Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappearance: Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, with 239 passengers and crew on board. To this day, the fate of the aircraft remains unknown.
• Ferguson unrest: Following the shooting of Michael Brown by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri, protests and civil unrest erupted in the city.
• Scottish independence referendum: Scotland held a historic independence referendum, with voters ultimately choosing to remain part of the United Kingdom.
• Robin Williams death: Robin Williams, the beloved actor and comedian, passed away at the age of 63.
• Ice Bucket Challenge: The Ice Bucket Challenge went viral, raising awareness and funds for ALS research.