Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON May 6, 1938
Full News Archive
- Headline: Generosity Shines in 1938 Citizens Appeal. Impact: The massive donations to the Salvation Army sparked a chain reaction of charitable giving that led to the establishment of several 'competitive charity' events, including the infamous 'Bowl-a-thon for a Cause,' where bowling balls replaced cash as the ultimate currency for kindness.. Fact: Fun fact: The Salvation Army's success in fundraising led to the rise of 'charity galas'—a fancy way to dress up and eat overpriced hors d'oeuvres while feeling good about yourself..
- Headline: Chinese Forces Make Major Advances in 1938. Impact: The jubilation over the Chinese advances against Japan not only shifted the balance of power in Asia but also inspired a popular dance trend years later known as the 'Chinese Advance Shuffle,' which was tragically misunderstood as a new form of Tai Chi.. Fact: Did you know that the Chinese forces' success was later referenced in countless movies, making 'underdog triumph' an overused Hollywood trope ever since? Thanks, historical context!.
- Headline: To Sign Parker Removal Writ. Impact: The signing of Parker's removal writs was a pivotal moment that set off a series of legal battles, leading to the creation of reality TV courtroom dramas several generations later. It turns out drama can be just as entertaining in a courtroom as it is in a reality show.. Fact: Did you know that signing a removal writ is basically the legal equivalent of 'you're fired'? The concept really took off in the entertainment industry!.
- Headline: Business World; COMMERCIAL PAPER High Unit Drop Worries Stores Change in Franc Hits Importers Clothing Sales Launched Kipskins Advance Twice in Day Better Summer Rug Call Slow Money Would Cost Less Under Lone Paper Bid Protests 2% Extra on Dresses Form Council on Worth St. Rules Burlap Quiet, Prices Easier Gray Goods Volume Light. Impact: The chaotic state of the business world prompted an influx of financial experts, leading to the creation of the 'Get Rich Quick' seminar circuit. Yes, the financial mismanagement of the 1930s was directly responsible for your uncle's terrible investment advice.. Fact: Fun fact: Commercial paper sounds fancy, but it’s essentially the financial version of 'I owe you.' Because who doesn’t want to owe money in style?.
- Headline: Landis Heads Trade Fraternity. Impact: Landis's leadership in the trade fraternity saw the rise of trade associations that would eventually lead to the concept of 'networking'—where awkward small talk became the norm and resulted in a plethora of LinkedIn profiles no one reads.. Fact: Did you know that trade fraternities were among the first to invent the concept of 'networking'? Because nothing says 'friendship' like connecting over mutual economic gain..
- Headline: INQUIRY DEMANDS SPLIT HARRISBURG; State Treasurer Ross, Aide to Kennedy, Asks Labor Bureau Under Bashore Be Sifted MARGIOTTI HITS 'BOSSES' Nearly Complete Registration in Pennsylvania Shows Lead of Republicans About 180,000 Registration in Pennsylvania. Impact: The inquiry demanding a split in Harrisburg not only highlighted political corruption but also inspired generations of conspiracy theorists who believed that every state treasurer would eventually be involved in a scandal—spoiler alert: they weren't wrong.. Fact: Did you know that political scandals are basically the soap operas of governance? Tune in next week to see if anyone gets removed from office!.
- Headline: BAR TESTS PASSED BY 449 IN STATE; Survivors of 1,144 Who Took March 15-16 Examinations Are Listed at Albany NOW CERTIFIED TO COURTS Successful Applicants Must Qualify as to Character and Fitness to Practice First Department Second Department. Impact: The bar tests passed by 449 individuals marked a significant moment in legal history, inadvertently leading to the birth of the phrase 'lawyer up,' which is now used casually in contexts ranging from petty arguments to international disputes.. Fact: Fun fact: The bar exam has a higher fail rate than most reality TV shows. So, if you think you can handle the pressure, just remember: at least you won't have to wear a ridiculous costume..
- Headline: Dies at Wheel, Auto Hits Pole. Impact: The tragic accident of someone dying at the wheel set off a wave of safety regulations in vehicles, which eventually led to the invention of the seatbelt—one of the greatest innovations since sliced bread, if you ask the bread.. Fact: Did you know that before seatbelts, cars were basically just rolling death traps? Talk about a 'buckle up' moment in history!.
- Headline: Democratic Session May 19. Impact: The announcement of the Democratic session on May 19 led to a flurry of political maneuvering that would later inspire sitcoms based on the absurdity of political life—because who doesn't want to watch elected officials bumble their way through governance?. Fact: Did you know that political sessions are often mistaken for reality TV auditions? The drama is just as real, and the stakes are somehow even higher!.
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1938, it would be worth $3,433,940 today (3433.9x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1938, it would be worth $586,656 today (586.7x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1938, it would be worth $474,914 today (474.9x return)