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 25, 1939
Full News Archive
- Headline: Miami Gaming Ban Threatens Police Actions. Impact: The suits to ban gaming in Miami sparked a revolution that led to the invention of 'underground' gaming nights, where people played poker in basements, ultimately giving rise to the modern underground rave scene. So, thanks for nothing, citizens!. Fact: Fun fact: The term 'underground' has been used for everything from gaming to music. Because nothing says 'rebellious' like a basement party!.
- Headline: Mayor LaGuardia Welcomes Razing Inquiry. Impact: Mayor LaGuardia's welcome of the inquiry on elevated structures gave rise to a future where every mayor feels the need to conduct inquiries on everything, from potholes to pizza toppings. Now, we have entire committees dedicated to discussing pineapple on pizza!. Fact: LaGuardia was known for his love of inquiry and transparency, which is funny considering most modern politicians would rather hide under their desks than face the public!.
- Headline: DETECTIVE IS A WITNESS; Denies Use of Threats to Get Confession in Fried Case. Impact: The Fried case and the detective's testimony eventually led to a rise in true crime podcasts, as people everywhere became obsessed with the idea that maybe their favorite detective was just bad at their job. Ah, the power of a good story!. Fact: True crime podcasts are so popular that they now outnumber actual crimes committed in some areas. Just kidding... or am I?.
- Headline: Walsh Reappoints Miss Byrne. Impact: Walsh's reappointment of Miss Byrne inspired a future trend in politics where every underqualified candidate is somehow related to someone in power. It's like a family reunion, but for government jobs!. Fact: Did you know that nepotism has been around since the Roman Empire? Some things never change!.
- Headline: DRIVER DIES IN TRUCK FIRE; Was on Way to This City, Where Children Are in Hospital. Impact: The tragic truck fire that claimed a life ironically led to the introduction of stricter safety regulations for trucks, which in turn caused a shortage of drivers as they all quit in protest. So, thanks for that, safety!. Fact: Truck drivers are often seen as the backbone of the economy. So, when they leave, well, good luck getting that Amazon package on time!.
- Headline: Veteran Court Aide Resigns. Impact: The resignation of the veteran court aide set off a chain reaction where every disgruntled public servant thought, 'If they can quit, so can I!' This eventually led to a nationwide shortage of court aides, making courtroom dramas 10 times more dramatic!. Fact: Court aides are like the unsung heroes of the legal system. Without them, judges would be left to deal with paperwork, and we all know how much they love that!.
- Headline: CLOTH CONTRACTS ISSUED; Treasury Division Places Orders for 989,200 Yards. Impact: The issuance of cloth contracts by the Treasury Division led to an unexpected boom in the fashion industry, making fabric the new currency. Soon, people were trading yardage instead of dollars. Talk about a fabric of society!. Fact: The textile industry is one of the oldest in human history. So, next time you complain about your clothing choices, just remember, it all started with a few yards of fabric!.
- Headline: ROOSEVELT IS ATTACKED; Boston Police Will Give Circular to Justice Department Today. Impact: The circular attacking Roosevelt spurred the rise of political smear campaigns, which eventually led to today's political landscape where mudslinging is practically an Olympic sport. Who knew a piece of paper could change the world?. Fact: Political smear campaigns have been around since the dawn of politics. Remember, it's not about the issues; it's about who can throw the most mud!.
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1939, it would be worth $3,433,942 today (3433.9x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1939, it would be worth $586,657 today (586.7x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1939, it would be worth $474,913 today (474.9x return)