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HEADLINES ON July 26, 1931
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- Headline: Exploring John Leech's Rare Books. Impact: The publication of Field's notes caused a rare book frenzy, leading to the rise of pretentious hipster bookstores in every corner of the globe. Suddenly, everyone thought they were a literary connoisseur after reading just one chapter of Moby Dick.. Fact: Did you know that the rare book market is 90% people trying to impress their friends with the number of dust jackets they own?.
- Headline: Men's Wear Alterations Survey in 1931. Impact: This monumental survey sparked a global movement to question all charges related to fashion, leading to the unprecedented rise of pajama pants as acceptable public wear. Thank you, retail group!. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more complicated than men's clothing alterations is the male psyche. Good luck, surveyors!.
- Headline: Tragic Passing of Dr. Lee K. Frankel. Impact: Frankel's death sent shockwaves through social work and Zionist movements, leading to the establishment of numerous charitable organizations that are still changing lives today. His vision for social insurance paved the way for modern welfare programs.. Fact: It's said that Dr. Frankel once calculated how many people's lives could be improved with a good social policyβspoiler alert: it was a lot!.
- Headline: H. OTTO WITTPENN, BANKER, IS DEAD; New Jersey Manufacturer and Leader in Politics--Victim of Blood Poisoning. EX-MAYOR OF JERSEY CITY Naval Officer of Port of New York Under Wilson--Democratic Candidate for Governor. Starts as Grocer's Clerk. Elected Supervisor. Carried Every Ward as Mayor. His Many Interests.. Impact: Wittpenn's untimely demise left a gaping hole in New Jersey politics, which was eventually filled by a parade of questionable figures. His life was a cautionary tale for politicians everywhere about the risks of mixing banking with, well, anything.. Fact: Did you know that becoming a politician is like a game of Jenga? One wrong move and the whole thing comes crashing downβblood poisoning included..
- Headline: Ask Data on Trade Barriers.. Impact: This data-gathering initiative sparked a series of trade wars that made the Great Depression look like a friendly game of Monopoly. Thank you, Pan American Union, for showing us how to turn countries against each other!. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more contentious than trade barriers is Thanksgiving dinner debates about politics..
- Headline: 20 RAILROADS SHOW 17.9% DROP IN NET; June Operating Income Totaled $14,054,000, Against $17,132,000 a Year Ago.P.R.R. REPORTS DECLINEFigure Off $3,137,000--Losses forMonth and Half Year forMissouri-Kansas-Texas.. Impact: This financial report led to a nationwide panic regarding the future of railroads, which eventually resulted in the rise of the automobile industry. Who knew a 17.9% drop could change the course of transportation history?. Fact: Did you know that railroads were once the backbone of American economy? Now, theyβre just a nostalgic Instagram filter..
- Headline: EAST RIVER RESCUE FAILS.; Woman In Water Only a Few Minutes Found Beyond Aid.. Impact: The tragedy of the East River rescue highlighted the need for better emergency response systems, indirectly leading to the creation of more effective lifeguard training programs. Every loss inspires a future save.. Fact: Itβs a sad reality that sometimes 'beyond aid' means a grim reminder of the importance of safety in public spaces..
- Headline: URIBURU TO DEPORT FORMER PRESIDENT; Bar on Party Followed by Order to Alvear and 3 Other High Argentine Radicals. REBEL REGIMENT DISBANDED Troops Giving Up Are Promised Pardon--2,000 Loyal Soldiers Watch Corrientes Area. Petition Is Refused. Must Go to Other Parties.. Impact: Uriburu's decision to deport a former president set a precedent for political exiles, shaping the tumultuous political landscape of Argentina for decades to come. Every exile is a story waiting to unfold.. Fact: Did you know that political drama in Argentina is hotter than a telenovela? Pass the popcorn!.
- Headline: INSTALMENT SALES HOLD.; Finance Group Reports Ratio the Same as in Past 7 Years.. Impact: This boring financial report inadvertently maintained the status quo, allowing consumer debt to flourish and leading to the creation of online shopping. Thank you for keeping us in debt, finance group!. Fact: Did you know that 'installment payments' is just a fancy way of saying 'Iβll be broke for a long time'?.
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)