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 August 21, 1939
Full News Archive
- Headline: Carol Yetter and Harry Van Dyke Unite. Impact: The union of Carol Yetter and Harry Van Dyke Jr. sparked a series of unremarkable marriages that led to the invention of the family reunion potluck, forever changing the culinary landscape of America. Thanks, Carol!. Fact: Did you know that weddings used to be more about land deals than love? So, congratulations, Carol, on the ultimate business transaction!.
- Headline: Faith in Christ Only Hope Sermon. Impact: The emphasis on faith in Christ resulted in a boom of inspirational quotes, eventually leading to the invention of motivational posters. 'Hang in there, baby' was born from this very sermon!. Fact: Did you know that faith is sometimes just a fancy way of saying, 'I hope this works out'?.
- Headline: STYLE CHANGING IN RURAL EDITORS; For First Time a College Man Is Here as Best Country Correspondent HE LIKES SMALL-TOWN LIFE Created 'Navasot Philosopher,' a Character Who Writes for His Texas Weekly. Impact: The arrival of a college-educated correspondent in rural America triggered a mass exodus of rural editors to the nearest coffee shop, leading to an explosion of artisan coffee and the hipster movement. Thanks, H B Fox!. Fact: Did you know that 'Navasot Philosopher' was just a polite way of saying 'guy with too many opinions'?.
- Headline: SAM BREADON INJURED; Owner of Cardinals Thrown Off Horse at His Farm. Impact: Sam Breadon's horse-related injury led to the creation of the phrase 'Don't horse around,' which has since been used to scold both children and overly enthusiastic adults.. Fact: Did you know that the horse had no comment on the incident? Animals are just too sensible for drama..
- Headline: Lasky and Lowe Unhurt in Crash. Impact: The crash that left Lasky and Lowe unhurt inspired a new genre of 'How Not to Drive' seminars, which have since saved countless lives and resulted in an uptick in insurance premiums.. Fact: Did you know that unhurt car crash victims often become the most boring dinner guests? They just can't relate!.
- Headline: BRONX SEEKS BENCH POST; Groups Back Plea for Choice of Borough Resident. Impact: The Bronx's plea for a bench post led to increased local political engagement, resulting in a community that actually cares about who sits on their benchesβjust not enough to vote.. Fact: Did you know that bench posts are actually a front for a secret society of bench warmers? True story!.
- Headline: TALLEY TO DIRECT GOLDSTEIN FIGHT; 2 Former Judges Join Forces to Get Democratic Nomination for General Sessions BENCH 'DEAL' IS ASSAILED Herlands Still Is Silent on His Decision in Race for District Attorney in Kings. Impact: The collaboration of Talley and Goldstein for the Democratic nomination led to an unforeseen alliance of former judges, ushering in an era of courtroom dramas that put soap operas to shame.. Fact: Did you know that 'deal' in politics often means 'let's both pretend we like each other for a while'?.
- Headline: LAMBS HOLD 'WASHING'; Theatrical Club Later Has Gambol at East Islip Home. Impact: The Lambs' theatrical club washing event inadvertently led to the rise of themed parties, ultimately resulting in the modern phenomenon of 'adulting'βwhere washing dishes becomes an event.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more theatrical than a washing party is the drama that unfolds when someone forgets to bring the snacks?.
- Headline: GEHRIG TO VISIT CLINIC; Routine Check-Up on Condition Planned at Mayos'. Impact: Lou Gehrig's routine check-up became a historical moment that sparked awareness about health checks, leading to the eventual creation of the annual physical examinationβbecause nothing says 'fun' like waiting in a doctor's office.. Fact: Did you know that Gehrig was just trying to avoid the awkward small talk that comes with a routine check-up? It's a universal struggle!.
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)