2024 was a pretty rough year for many of us--myself included! Every year has its share of firsts, but 2024 really raised the bar with some incredible, bizarre, and downright historic moments. From scientific breakthroughs to unexpected milestones, here are 10 of the year’s wildest firsts that’ll have you saying, “Wait, that actually happened?”

1. Water on an Asteroid

European Space Agency Captures Images Of Asteroid Lutetia
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Scientists found water on an asteroid for the first time ever.

2. Parents Convicted in a School Shooting

Sentencing For Parents Of Oxford, Michigan School Shooter Ethan Crumbley
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In a tragic first, parents were charged and convicted in connection with a school shooting. A heartbreaking moment that might spark the normalization of those kinds of convictions.

3. Pig Kidney Transplant Success

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Doctors successfully transplanted a pig kidney into a human.

4. Running Across Africa

2024 London Marathon - Celebrity Runners
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An extreme marathoner completed a 10,000-mile run across Africa in just 352 days. That’s dedication.

5. Taco Stand Earns a Michelin Star

El Califa de Leon: Inside The First Michelin Starred Taco Stand In Mexico
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A street-food taco stand in Mexico made history by earning a Michelin star. Proof that tacos are officially gourmet.

6. Saudi Arabia Hosts a Swimsuit Fashion Show

1001 Seasons Of Elie Saab
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Saudi Arabia took a major step forward (or maybe sideways?) by hosting its first-ever swimsuit fashion show.

7. Felon Elected President

President-Elect Donald Trump Meets Prince William In Paris Ahead Of Notre-Dame Reopening
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Donald Trump, convicted of 34 felonies, became the first felon elected president. Oh, and he also became the oldest president in history.

8. Orangutan Self-Care

The Prince Of Wales & Duchess Of Cornwall Visit Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei And India - Day 7
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Researchers saw an orangutan treating itself with medicinal herbs.

9. Breakdancing in the Olympics

Breaking - Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 14
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Breakdancing debuted in the Olympics—and promptly retired before the 2028 Games. Partially due to the ridiculous moves of one dancer named "Raygun".

10. LeBron and Bronny Team Up

Los Angeles Lakers v Cleveland Cavaliers
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LeBron James and his son Bronny played an NBA game together. A dream come true for LeBron, even if Bronny is still finding his footing.

2024, you were wild. Here’s to whatever craziness 2025 has in store!

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