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Scandalous events -

The '90s had its share of scandals, from Monica Lewinsky's affair with President Bill Clinton, to the O.J. Simpson trial.

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The dial-up internet sound -

The sound of dial-up internet once signaled connection, but today's high-speed internet ensures we're always plugged in, making life run much smoother.

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Y2K hysteria -

Remember the Y2K scare as we approached the year 2000? It was a time of uncertainty when we feared that computer systems worldwide would crash, plunging us into chaos. But as the clock struck midnight and the new millennium dawned, those worries proved unfounded.

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Y2K hysteria -

Today, we can smile and reminisce about the Y2K hysteria, recognizing how far we've come in terms of technology and our ability to adapt to change.

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Infomercials -

Late-night infomercials were entertaining, but today's streaming services give us endless options for binge-watching, minus the cheesy sales pitches!

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Identifying with the Spice Girls -

Back in the '90s, the Spice Girls were more than just a girl group; they were idols! Young girls especially each had their favorite Spice Girl, and it was a crucial part of their identity. Whether they were Sporty, Scary, Baby, Ginger, or Posh, the choice said something about their personality!

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Identifying with the Spice Girls -

Since those days, our playlists have evolved to include jazz, rock, hip hop, and so much more. While the Spice Girls will forever hold a special place in our hearts, our musical tastes have matured and diversified over the years.

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Wishing your dad was as cool as Robin Williams in 'Mrs. Doubtfire' (1993) -

As adults, many of us now cherish our parents' unique qualities. But back in the day, many of us wanted our dads to be as cool as Robin Williams.

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'Macarena' -

The 'Macarena' had us dancing, but today's music has grown and given us more to choose from, providing a wide selection of dance beats and genres to groove to.

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Soul patches -

The '90s had its fair share of interesting and quirky aesthetic choices, but most of us are particularly glad that the soul patch didn't keep going as a trend!

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Manual car windows -

Oh, the struggle: having to go through a full arm workout whenever you wanted some fresh air! Nowadays we give thanks to modern technology. 

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Emphasis on thinness -

The '90s fashion industry idealized extreme thinness. Thankfully, today we see body positivity and diversity taking center stage, promoting healthier beauty standards. Things are far from perfect, but they're better!

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The "talk to the hand" phrase -

"Talk to the hand" was a sassy '90s saying, but now we opt for more polite and constructive communication. Thank goodness!

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Tamagotchis -

Tamagotchis were virtual pet obsessions, but their constant beeping is a distant memory. We've moved on to more interactive digital companions. But okay, we'll admit this '90s trend had its charm!

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Sagging pants -

Sagging pants were a '90s trend that left us scratching our heads. Today, we're grateful for fashion that lets us express ourselves without tripping over our own trousers.

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Blockbuster movie rentals -

Remember the pain of not snagging that movie at Blockbuster? Today, streaming services offer endless film choices, right from your couch! Something we're eternally grateful for.

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Early cell phones -

Brick-sized cell phones were cool then, but today's sleek, pocket-sized devices keep us connected and organized with ease.

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Plastic raincoats -

Plastic raincoats were a '90s fashion trend, but modern rainwear combines style with functionality, keeping us dry without looking like walking plastic bags!

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Pagers -

Pagers were essential in the '90s, but now we rely on smartphones for instant communication, connecting us seamlessly with the world.

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Beanie Babies -

Beanie Babies were all the rage in the '90s. These stuffed critters seemed like an investment, but today they're just nostalgic relics, reminding us that trends come and go.

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Trapper Keepers -

Trapper Keepers were school staples, but now we organize our lives with digital tools, making everything from note-taking to scheduling more convenient.

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"The Rachel" haircut -

Jennifer Aniston's 'Friends' haircut was iconic, but today's styles offer more versatility, allowing us to express ourselves in unique ways.

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'The Blair Witch Project' (1999) -

'The Blair Witch Project' terrified us with its found footage style. Today, horror films offer more diverse scares, from psychological thrillers to supernatural hauntings.

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Bigger ballads -

In the '90s, big ballads took over the airwaves. Artists like Meat Loaf and Celine Dion belted out emotional tunes that left us awestruck. Their powerful voices shook the charts, giving us unforgettable moments. 

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Bigger ballads -

Today, while we cherish the nostalgia, we've diversified our musical tastes. We appreciate subtler melodies, and like to explore a wider range of genres.

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Slap bracelet bans -

Slap bracelets were banned in some schools, but now we treasure the memories of these quirky accessories from our childhood. These awesome bracelets have actually made a strong comeback as part of some company's marketing campaigns.

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'Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace' (1999) -

The '90s brought us 'Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,' (1999) and many die-hard 'Star Wars' fans would say this version of the iconic story didn't quite hit the mark!

Sources: (FamilyMinded) (Best Life) 

See also: The amazing ways nostalgia changes the brain

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