Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
The Sounds of
The biggest hits of the year — Top 10 Pop & Country chart toppers
HEADLINES ON March 17, 1988
Full News Archive
- Headline: Ferns: The Unsung Heroes of Florida. Impact: In a bizarre twist of fate, the rise of ferns over flowers led to the creation of a secret society of fern enthusiasts who began plotting to overthrow the floral industry. Eventually, they developed a fern-based currency, causing a global economic shift that still leaves florists bitter to this day.. Fact: Did you know that in some cultures, ferns are considered a symbol of sincerity? Too bad sincerity doesn’t pay the bills in the cut flower world!.
- Headline: Transforming Oak into Art. Impact: The hype over quarter-sawn oak inadvertently triggered a wood revolution, leading to an underground movement where people began hoarding all types of oak. This eventually resulted in an acorn black market that fueled the rise of the 'Wooden Wall Street.'. Fact: Fun fact: Frank Lloyd Wright once designed a chair that was so uncomfortable, it could double as a punishment device. Guess that’s what happens when you prioritize aesthetics over ergonomics!.
- Headline: Dow Jones Surges After Late Rally. Impact: This minor stock rally set off a chain reaction that led to a nationwide obsession with late-night trading. Ultimately, it gave birth to a reality TV show 'Wall Street After Dark,' where traders compete to make the most ridiculous trades while sleep-deprived.. Fact: Did you know that stock market rallies are like roller coasters? They both have people screaming in joy and others crying, often at the same time!.
- Headline: Dry Cleaner Specializes in Ancient Stains. Impact: The invention of ancient stain removal techniques led to historians discovering a long-lost royal wardrobe that was thought to be a myth. This wardrobe, however, was found to be full of questionable fashion choices that changed how we view royal dignity forever.. Fact: Ironically, ancient stains are often the only thing that remains untouched by time—much like my ex's taste in clothing!.
Wall Street Time Machine
AAPL
Apple
Apple - If you invested $1,000 in 1988, it would be worth $884,238 today (884.2x return)
MSFT
Microsoft
Microsoft - If you invested $1,000 in 1988, it would be worth $2,037,337 today (2037.3x return)