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 December 22, 1939
Full News Archive
- Headline: Boxer Kehler Charged in High-Profile Murder. Impact: Kehler's indictment marked a turning point in how society viewed violence in sports, leading to an increase in regulation and the rise of sports psychology. Who knew boxing could have such a ripple effect on mental health awareness?. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more punchy than Kehler's boxing career was his courtroom defense..
- Headline: Marjorie Blinn Weds John Gallagher. Impact: This modest wedding led to a significant trend of small, intimate ceremonies that would eventually replace the grandiose weddings of the early 20th century. Thanks, Marjorie, for putting the 'bored' back in 'boredom'!. Fact: Did you know that Marjorie's wedding was so small, even the cake was a cupcake?.
- Headline: $430,000 'KICK-BACK' BARED AT INQUIRY; Martin, Illinois Insurance Head, Says He Got Share of Sum Paid to Rewriting Agent GOT CONTROL BY LOANS Transaction Involved Company Now Operating in 15 States, Witness Tells Hearing Company Taken Over in 1929 Return to Officials Kept Secret Burke Warns on Inquiry. Impact: This scandal opened the floodgates for insurance regulation. Years later, it would inspire a generation of conspiracy theorists who now believe that every insurance policy is a secret plot involving lizard people.. Fact: Did you know that if you put 'kick-back' in a business meeting, you're either getting fired or getting a raise? Depends on the context!.
- Headline: MACK EVERETT GILLIS; Assistant Vice President of Trust Company Here Dies. Impact: Gillis's passing created a power vacuum that shifted the dynamics of local banking. In a twist of fate, his chair was eventually filled by someone who had no idea how to use a calculator, leading to a minor economic crisis. Oops!. Fact: Fun fact: Mack's greatest achievement was probably being an assistant vice president β because who really needs a full title?.
- Headline: Philadelphia Keeps Stokowski. Impact: By retaining Stokowski, Philadelphia inadvertently set the stage for an entire generation of music lovers who would one day argue over whether classical music could be 'cool' β spoiler alert: it can!. Fact: Did you know that Stokowski's hair had more fans than most pop stars? No wonder he got to stay!.
- Headline: Kroner Selling Rumor Denied. Impact: The denial of this rumor led to a massive public relations campaign that would teach future generations that if you deny something loudly enough, people will eventually stop asking. Or not. Thanks, social media!. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more unstable than a currency is the rumor mill? They should really just call it 'currency gossip.'.
- Headline: Calkins Gets Union Post. Impact: Calkins's appointment led to a wave of revitalization in the arts community, paving the way for more variety acts that would eventually become the foundation for reality TV. Congratulations, Calkins β you're indirectly responsible for 'The Bachelor!'. Fact: Did you know that being named exec sec asst is basically the title equivalent of being the 'person who holds the coffee' in a meeting?.
- Headline: FRANCES STEEN A BRIDE; Wed in St. Thomas Chantry to J.T. Gilbert, Bermuda Official. Impact: Frances's wedding sparked a mini-trend of destination weddings, leading to countless couples arguing over whether to get married in the Bahamas or just at the local courthouse. Spoiler alert: they all end up at the courthouse!. Fact: Did you know that the best part of a wedding is the cake? Just saying..
- Headline: POLICEMAN WOUNDED IN CAFETERIA AFFRAY; On Way to Investigate Shooting, He Is Shot Outside Door. Impact: This tragic event highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement, ultimately leading to increased training and protective measures. It's a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those in uniform.. Fact: It's said that the cafeteria was known for its 'daily specials,' but clearly, they needed a better security plan..
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)