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 July 21, 1936
Full News Archive
- Headline: The Spanish Civil War Begins. Impact: The Spanish revolt led to a chain reaction, resulting in a dramatic increase in the popularity of flamenco dancing. Today, every awkward wedding reception includes at least one half-hearted attempt at it, all thanks to a few rebels back then.. Fact: Did you know that the first Spanish revolt had nothing to do with actual revolting? It was just a bunch of people trying to get better tapas..
- Headline: Milk Drivers Support Roosevelt in 1936. Impact: This endorsement by milk drivers may have inadvertently inspired future political movements, including the 'Cow Liberation Front' and an entire generation of lactose-free advocates. Who knew dairy could be so revolutionary?. Fact: Fun fact: Milk was once considered a superfood. Today, it's mostly just super annoying if you're lactose intolerant..
- Headline: Traveler's Track Unveiled in Maine. Impact: Traveler's Track in Maine paved the way for modern GPS technology, but only after a series of wrong turns that caused people to end up in bizarre places, like a knitting convention instead of a bar.. Fact: Did you know Maine is known for its potatoes? So if you get lost, just follow the scent of french fries!.
- Headline: Legionnaires Bury Apppelgate. Impact: The funeral of Applegate inadvertently sparked the 'Legionnaires' annual game of competitive mourning, where they tried to out-sob each other for decades. It became a heartwarming yet bizarre tradition.. Fact: The Legionnaires' services are so solemn that even the Grim Reaper takes notes on how to attend funerals like a pro..
- Headline: $80,000 YEARLY TOO LITTLE; Baroness von Leidersdorff Says Sum Is Insufficient to Pay Debts.. Impact: Baroness von Leidersdorff's financial woes sparked the invention of the modern-day trust fund baby, leading to a generation of people who canβt seem to figure out how to adult properly, yet still insist on brunching every weekend.. Fact: Did you know that trust funds are essentially a way for rich kids to pretend they have job prospects without actually doing anything? It's like a participation trophy for life!.
- Headline: AMATEUR HOUR' IN NIANTIC; Farce on Current Radio Craze Satirizes Favorites.. Impact: The satirical show 'Amateur Hour' led to an endless cycle of reality television, where people compete for fame while doing the most ridiculous things. Thanks, Niantic!. Fact: Fun fact: 'Amateur Hour' was originally about people attempting to do things they weren't good at. Kind of like a precursor to TikTok, but with less cringe (maybe)..
- Headline: Col. Margerum Hurt in Fall. Impact: Col. Margerum's unfortunate fall from an upper berth set off a series of clumsy incidents among military personnel, which ultimately led to the establishment of the first 'Don't Try This at Home' manuals for soldiers.. Fact: Did you know that falling out of bed is a common occurrence for many? It's basically military training for civilian life..
- Headline: OPEN SUNDAY, SHOPS FINED; One Proprietor Sent to Jail in Dr. Bowlby's Campaign.. Impact: Dr. Bowlby's campaign against Sunday shopping led to a nationwide movement that inspired at least one sitcom about the woes of shopping, which ultimately resulted in the creation of a billion-dollar industry of online retail therapy.. Fact: Fun fact: Sunday shopping bans were initially intended to encourage family time. Instead, they just drove people to online retail and family therapy..
- Headline: ESSAY WINNER TRIES ROLE OF MOVIE STAR; Montana Girl Gets Film Test as Part of Crowded Day of More Sightseeing.. Impact: The Montana girl's essay contest win unintentionally led to the rise of influencer culture, as she later claimed that writing about her experience was just a stepping stone to becoming an Instagram star.. Fact: Did you know that essay contests often lead to more fame than actual academic achievements? It's like the lottery but with more words..
- Headline: TWO-SIDED TRADE. Impact: This 'Two-Sided Trade' concept led to countless trade agreements that are as confusing as trying to understand your tax return. It's the reason we now have pineapple on pizzaβno one can decide what belongs where.. Fact: Did you know that trade agreements are often more complex than a soap opera plot? It's like watching two nations argue over who gets the last piece of cake..
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)