Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON December 30, 1937
Full News Archive
- Headline: Queens Water Company Transfer Approved. Impact: This seemingly mundane water company transfer led to the city's obsession with public utilities, resulting in the infamous 'Water Wars' of the 2040s, where citizens fought for the last drops of sparkling water from the tap. Who knew a board meeting could reshape the future of hydration?. Fact: Did you know that before water was considered a basic human right, people had to barter their way to a drink? Imagine trading a chicken for a glass of waterβsounds a bit like a bad medieval sitcom!.
- Headline: ANDREW FORD, 65, SUN NIGHT EDITOR; Had Charge of Early Working News Staff Since 1933-- Succumbs at His Home; LONG WITH THE TELEGRAM; Gave Up Study of Medicine to Work for Albany Argus-- Was Boating Enthusiast. Impact: The passing of Andrew Ford resulted in a significant decline in local journalism, leading to the rise of influencers who claimed to be 'newsworthy' while posting pictures of their avocado toast. Thanks, Andrew!. Fact: Did you know that more people get their news from TikTok than from newspapers now? Ah, the sweet irony of journalism morphing into dance challenges!.
- Headline: Germans Threaten to Claim Alsace Unless Other Demands Are Met Now; Flandin Told Colonies Must Be Returned, Predominance in Austria Admitted and French Backing for Czechs Limited. Impact: The German threat over Alsace was the spark that ignited a series of diplomatic faux pas that would lead to a century of awkward family reunions in Europe. 'So, how's that Alsace thing going?' became the most dreaded conversation starter.. Fact: Fun fact: Alsace has changed hands so many times that itβs basically the 'hot potato' of European geography. If only it had a 'Do Not Disturb' sign!.
- Headline: NEW GAS IS FOUND IN THE ATMOSPHERE; Delicate Spectroradiometer Detects Nitrogen Pentoxide 10-25 Miles Above Earth; 'CREATIVE' PROTEINS SEEN; Lillie, Chicago Biologist, Tells Scientists of Vital, Super- Physical Quality in Genes. Impact: The discovery of nitrogen pentoxide paved the way for new forms of environmental warfare in the future. Who knew a gas found high above Earth would lead to a caffeine-infused armageddon? Just kidding, but it did inspire a generation of over-caffeinated scientists.. Fact: Did you know that some scientists believe that nitrogen pentoxide might one day be used in space coffee machines? Because whatβs interstellar travel without a good cup of joe?.
- Headline: DANCES ARE GIVEN FOR JUNIOR GROUPS; Future Debutantes and Young Men From Colleges and Schools at Events. Impact: These junior dances inadvertently created a generation of debutantes who could only waltz at a 45-degree angle, leading to the most awkward prom videos in history. A true testament to the power of poorly organized social events!. Fact: Did you know that the first prom was actually a dinner for teachers? Now it's a competition for who can post the best selfiesβprogress, right?.
- Headline: Clock Maker Omits Dividend. Impact: The clockmaker's decision to omit dividends led to a time paradox where clocks started running on their own, leading to a future where people are perpetually late. So much for punctuality!. Fact: Did you know that clocks were originally invented to make people feel guilty about being late? And here we are, still struggling with time management!.
- Headline: POLLIE. Impact: The mention of 'Pollie' became a meme that spanned centuries, leading to a popular catchphrase that was used by politicians to distract from real issues. 'But what about Pollie?' became a classic dodging tactic.. Fact: Did you know that 'Pollie' was originally a parrot owned by a politician who awkwardly trained it to repeat his campaign promises? Now that's what I call a feathered campaign manager!.
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1937, it would be worth $3,433,941 today (3433.9x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1937, it would be worth $586,657 today (586.7x return)