1780 1800 1820 1840 1860 1880 1900 1920 1940 1960 1980 2000
1790 - Metric system is born in France.
1793- In May, unit was given the name metre, from the Greek word metron, which means a measure.
1799- Reference standards adapted for the meter and the kilogram.
1812- The old units of measurement were restored by Napoleon, Emperor of France
1840- Metric system again became mandatory in France.
1866- Metric system became legal but not mandatory in the United States.
1875- Metric Convention held in Paris. U.S. was an important participant.
1884- Great Britain signs the "Treaty of Meter."
1901- U.S. National Bureau established
1957-U.S.S.R. launches Sputnik, renewing interest in the metric system
1968- Aug.9 Congress authorizes a study to determine the advantages and disadvantages of the United States changing to the metric system.
1970- Metric study is released, recommending change over to the metric system.
1975- Congress enacted the Metric Conversion Act of 1975.
1982- Office of Metric Programs replaces the Metric Board.
1988- The Omnibus Trade Bill was passed. It required federal agencies to use metric units by 1992.
Present- Organizations such as the European Union , for example have threatened to restrict imports from the U.S.A.
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