Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON January 15, 1936
Full News Archive
- Headline: Roxy Rothafel's Final Farewell. Impact: The outpouring of grief for Rothafel inspired a wave of tribute concerts, leading to the rise of 'celebrity funeral merchandise' β yes, that's right, we have R.I.P. t-shirts now.. Fact: Did you know that without Rothafel, we might never have had the multiplex? So, thanks, Roxy, for letting us suffer through endless commercials before our movies..
- Headline: BancAmerica-Blair Financial Milestone. Impact: This seemingly innocuous profit announcement sent shockwaves through the financial world, leading to the invention of the phrase 'too big to fail' β which was later used to explain why we can't have nice things.. Fact: Did you know that in 1935, a million dollars was worth more than it is today? Now, that amount barely covers your favorite influencer's avocado toast!.
- Headline: URGES MARXISM COURSE.; George Soule Speaks at University of Georgia Despite Protest.. Impact: This lecture ignited a debate that would echo through universities for decades, leading to countless hipster coffee shops and the rise of 'revolutionary' latte art. Who knew communism could be so frothy?. Fact: Did you know that George Soule's speech was so controversial, it made the syllabus for every college debate team for the next century? Apparently, he was the original 'hot take' artist..
- Headline: LAND TAX PASSAGE SEEN.; Daughter of Henry George Backs Measure in California.. Impact: The support for this land tax eventually led to heated debates in state legislatures across the country, resulting in the creation of 'property tax parties' β which, sadly, arenβt as fun as they sound.. Fact: Did you know Henry George's theories are still debated today? Apparently, math and economics are the only subjects that can spark a family feud..
- Headline: FUNERAL OF F. L. BAKER.; Services for Society Editor of The Times to Be Held Today.. Impact: The loss of F. L. Baker marked a profound moment for journalism, catalyzing a shift towards more sensational reporting. Thanks to him, we now have tabloids and reality TV! You're welcome.. Fact: Did you know that F. L. Baker was a pioneer in social reporting? Heβd probably be shocked to see what passes as 'news' today β but hey, at least he wouldnβt have to read the comments!.
- Headline: British King and Queen Become Movie Fans; 7 U.S. Films Among 19 Seen in Fortnight. Impact: The newfound royal interest in cinema inadvertently led to the creation of 'Royal Movie Nights', where the monarchy would later inspire countless film critiques and Oscar nominations. Who knew they had such discerning tastes?. Fact: Did you know that this royal cinema obsession paved the way for the royal family to eventually endorse popcorn? Because nothing says 'monarchy' like buttery snacks during a feature film..
- Headline: Japan Opens Salvador Legation.. Impact: The establishment of this legation opened doors for diplomatic relations that would later lead to a culinary exchange of sushi and pupusas. Globalization? More like global-taste-buds!. Fact: Did you know that this legation was so groundbreaking that it sparked endless discussions about diplomatic snacks? Because who wants to negotiate without a side of edamame?.
- Headline: GOVERNMENT ASKS A TEST OF SEC ACT; Solicitor General Files a Brief in Jones Case Agreeing to High Court Review.. Impact: This request for a review led to a cascade of legal precedents, resulting in every aspiring lawyer in the country trying to sound smart at parties by mentioning the SEC Act. Cheers, legal jargon!. Fact: Did you know that this case is so complex that even lawyers need a nap afterward? It's like a legal maze with no cheese at the end..
- Headline: LEHMAN CRIME BILLS BACKED BY SENATE; One of Three Measures Allows Bench and Bar to Comment on Defendant's Silence.. Impact: This bill's passing changed courtroom dynamics forever, leading to the rise of legal analysts on TV β because who doesnβt want to hear about crime from someone whoβs never been in a courtroom?. Fact: Did you know that this bill might have actually inspired courtroom dramas? Because nothing says 'entertainment' like watching fictional lawyers argue over real laws..
Wall Street Time Machine
IBM
IBM
IBM - If you invested $1,000 in 1936, it would be worth $205,272 today (205.3x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1936, it would be worth $3,433,942 today (3433.9x return)