Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON July 4, 1931
Full News Archive
- Headline: Tragic Auto Incident Claims Womanβs Life. Impact: The tragic accident sparked a trend in Brooklyn where drivers began installing 'Sorry for Running You Over' bumper stickers. This eventually led to a rise in passive-aggressive driving culture, which became a defining feature of urban life in the 21st century.. Fact: Did you know that in the world of auto accidents, the phrase 'I swear I didn't see you' is the most popular excuse? Apparently, it works in court, too!.
- Headline: Macomber's Clustine, 7 to 2, Javenile Victor at Newmarket. Impact: Clustine's victory inspired a bizarre new trend in naming pets after racehorses. This led to a future where every dog park echoed with shouts of 'Javenile! Come here!' and 'Macomber, stop that!'. Fact: Did you know that horses have their own fan clubs? If only humans had the same enthusiasm for their pets!.
- Headline: VANITIE HOME FIRST; WEETAMOE IS THIRD; Lambert Yacht Wins by 3:29 on Corrected Time in Race of America's Cup Boats. Avatar Finishes Second. Vanitle Keeps Lead.. Impact: The yacht race inadvertently sparked a competitive spirit among local boat owners, which resulted in the creation of 'The Great Duck Race of 1934', where rubber ducks were pitted against each other in a battle of buoyancy.. Fact: Did you know that the America's Cup is considered the most prestigious trophy in sailing? Just donβt tell the rubber ducksβthey think theyβre winning too!.
- Headline: Paris Gets a Pershing Street; Two Buildings Also Bear Name. Impact: The naming of Pershing Street was the catalyst for a future movement where street names became a hot topic in local politics, eventually leading to an entire city rebranding itself as 'The Thoroughfare of Controversy'.. Fact: Did you know that street names can influence property values? Maybe I should start a petition to rename my street 'Rich and Famous Avenue'!.
- Headline: SOUTHERN METHODISTS WARN WET DEMOCRATS; Temperance Board Spokesmen Declare Anti-Dry Plank Means Party Rift.. Impact: The Southern Methodists' warning to wet Democrats ignited a fiery debate that would ripple through American politics, ultimately leading to the establishment of the 'Dry Humor Society', which focused on making jokes about prohibition.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing wetter than a wet Democrat is the punchline of a bad joke? Oh wait, that's just the state of politics!.
Wall Street Time Machine
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1931, it would be worth $586,657 today (586.7x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1931, it would be worth $474,914 today (474.9x return)
GE
General Electric
General Electric - If you invested $1,000 in 1931, it would be worth $487,500 today (487.5x return)