OCTOBER 18, 1940

Full News Archive

• Headline: Leadership Change in British Home Fleet. Impact: This decisive command change led to a series of naval strategies that ultimately influenced the outcome of WWII. If Admiral Harwood had chosen a different strategy, we might have been watching British ships in a much less prominent role, perhaps even leading to a British version of 'Pirates of the Caribbean'—only with more tea and less Johnny Depp.. Fact: The British Home Fleet was basically the Navy’s version of a high school clique, constantly shifting leaders to maintain the right vibe. Who knew naval warfare could be so dramatic?.
• Headline: Willkie's Lost Vest Found in Portland. Impact: The return of Willkie's vest sparked a series of fashion statements in political circles, leading to the eventual rise of political cosplay at rallies. Imagine future candidates showing up in 1940s-era attire to win votes—because who doesn’t want a candidate in a dapper vest?. Fact: Lost vests have historically led to the resurrection of ‘lost causes’ in politics. Perhaps this vest was the secret to Willkie's charm—too bad it didn’t come with a winning strategy..
• Headline: LaGuardia Critiques Willkie's Social Security Claims. Impact: La Guardia’s sharp tongue helped shape the political landscape, setting a precedent for future politicians to engage in theatrical slanging matches. Thanks to him, we now have debates that look more like wrestling matches—who knew mudslinging could be such an art form?. Fact: La Guardia was known for his colorful language; it’s said he could make a simple grocery list sound like a Shakespearean tragedy..
• Headline: JAECKLE BELITTLES ROOSEVELT'S TOUR; President 'Obviously Alarmed at Upsurge of Willkie Trend,' Says Chairman PRYOR CONTINUES ATTACK Military Inspection Trips Are Called 'Subterfuge' That Did Not Help Defense. Impact: This criticism of Roosevelt’s tours laid the groundwork for future political figures to conduct 'photo-ops' that had zero impact on policy but a huge impact on their Instagram followers. Who knew politicians would one day prioritize their social media over actual governance?. Fact: Political tours have a long history, but it’s ironic that they often distract from the very issues they’re meant to address. It’s like bringing a piñata to a budget meeting—fun, but not particularly useful..
• Headline: WILLKIE PLEA BY BANK IS ASSAILED IN SENATE; Chicago Institution Urges Last Stand for Democracy. Impact: The Chicago bank’s plea is often credited with pushing the boundaries of political fundraising, leading to the establishment of super PACs where money talks louder than democracy. Thanks to this moment, we now have the joy of watching billionaires throw cash at their favorite candidates like they’re playing a game of Monopoly.. Fact: Banks and democracy have a complicated relationship, much like that of an ex who still shows up at family events uninvited. It’s best to keep them at arm’s length..
• Headline: Visions Chicago as Film Center. Impact: This dream of Chicago as a film center eventually led to a Hollywood exodus that had producers thinking they could make movies anywhere from the back of a truck to a coffee shop. Who knew the Windy City would become a beacon of creativity and countless rom-coms?. Fact: Chicago has been the backdrop for many films, but if they ever make a movie about Chicago politics, it'll probably be a horror film..
• Headline: SHIFT TO WILLKIE OF 5 STATES SEEN; Gallup Survey Shows Swing of Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana and Michigan HAS 117 ELECTORAL VOTES 1% Increase in Popular Vote for Republican Nominee Also Is Indicated. Impact: The shift in these states marked a crucial turning point that made political analysts realize the importance of swing states—like realizing you’ve been sitting on the remote when you could've been binge-watching your favorite show. Thanks to this, we've since developed a deep-seated obsession with polls.. Fact: Swing states are like the cool kids in high school—everyone wants to be their friend, but they’re notoriously fickle..
• Headline: 2 Relatives of President To Aid Fete for Willkie. Impact: The involvement of Roosevelt's relatives in Willkie's benefit turned the event into a historical soap opera, showcasing the dramatic family dynamics that could have fueled countless storylines in future political dramas. Thanks to them, we now have a precedent for political families cozying up to rivals—nothing says bipartisanship like a charity ball.. Fact: Political family reunions are often more contentious than Thanksgiving dinners—just with fewer turkey legs and more backhanded compliments..