Widely regarded as a high point in American history, the 90s represented a time of abundance, low conflict, care-free exploration, balance, acceptance, and cultural integration that had never been seen before. With technology and animation finally unleashed in a broad new way, the opportunity to create, communicate, and entertain flourished like never before.

Musicians and creative artists found new expressive avenues in a culture that was ready to embrace their fresh and unconventional art. Yet, in the midst of such exploration, a few insightful writers and critics were contemplating, "Is this just newly packaged entertainment, or genuine art?"

Meanwhile, the sports world raged with passion.

Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to 6 NBA Championships, Tiger Woods won his first Masters, Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire chased the single-season home run record, Montana, Favre, Aikman, Marino, and Elway dominated the NFL, the Red Wings won the Stanley Cup, and Robbie Knievel jumped the Grand Canyon on a motorcycle.

In tech, CDs rapidly replaced cassette tapes, Steve Jobs created Pixar and returned to Apple, Nintendo and Sega waged war for supremacy in the video game market, Pokémon swept over the entire country, and the internet was made publicly accessible for the first time.

Despite all its glory, the 90s was not immune to mass-felt cultural tragedy; Rap icons Tupac and Biggie were both gunned down, the ATF/FBI standoff and ruthless raid of cult leader David Koresh's compound in Waco, Texas, to the culmination of the Unabomber's nationwide reign of terror, to a hero football star/turned accused murderer, all ignited a deep anger and divide within the country once more.

All things considered, the 90s were a harmonious and exciting time to live, grow up, and experience the very last of what many call "The Simpler Times".