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Suits, Matteson, and MoyerThis type of chart is called a Sankey diagram, which shows the relative size of flows in and out of a system. This particular Sankey diagram shows the inputs and outputs for the U.S. energy system, measured in watts per capita.

In late August of 2010, I traveled to Iraq for the fifth time as vice president. While there, I participated in the change-of-command ceremony for United States Forces–Iraq. President Barack Obama had charged me with overseeing the end of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and we were committed to ensuring the orderly withdrawal of our forces and equipment from Iraq.

As the year comes to a close, it’s time to take a look at some of the most memorable events and images of 2020. Events covered in this essay (the first of a three-part photo summary of the year) include the disastrous Australian wildfires, the onset of the global coronavirus pandemic and the new reality of empty public spaces, innovative ways to cope with social-distancing measures, the Democratic presidential primaries, Brexit Day, and much more.

If you flew into Honolulu International Airport anytime after the start of the pandemic, you would have had a different experience from most Americans who have traveled elsewhere this year. In the days following your arrival, you would not be wading into the azure waters of Waikiki Beach. You would not be climbing the soaring crest of Diamond Head to gaze upon the Pacific Ocean. A noble sea turtle might be floating in the bay, ready to swim alongside you, but you would not be able to join him.