In the wake of somebody/something
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Time Connection
The phrase suggests events happen close in time to a prior event. 
In the wake of the scandal, several officials resigned.
Pro Tip 2/3Cause and Effect
Implies the previous event caused the subsequent events or reactions. 
Protests erupted in the wake of the controversial court ruling.
Pro Tip 3/3Momentous Events
Mostly used after significant events, such as disasters or major changes. 
A new law was passed in the wake of recent security breaches.