By the year 2000 the U.S. was heavily dependent on computer technology. So much so that when the year 1999 ended and 2000 began, many Americans were concerned about the design of this technology. It was realized near the end of the 90s that most computer systems thought the 2 digit “00” that marked the year 2000 was actually being used for 1900. Systems had to be upgraded to allow for either the entry of a 4 digit year number or to understand that “00” could mean 2000. Everyone was worried computers across the world would fail, electricity would go out, stores would have to close, and we would be back in the “dark” ages. The date change came and went with very few difficulties, but people were prepared with stock piles of food and water just in case. Christina Roberson