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 October 30, 1940
Full News Archive
- Headline: Wallace Criticizes Republicans in Iowa Tour. Impact: Wallace's outcry against agricultural negligence sparked a nationwide 'Save the Corn' movement, which inexplicably led to a series of corn-themed pop songs in the 1980s, creating a bizarre subculture that still haunts us today.. Fact: Did you know that corn was once considered a form of currency? Not that it did the farmers much good when they tried to pay their bills with it..
- Headline: Civil War Draft Wheel Unearthed in Philadelphia. Impact: The rediscovery of the draft wheel led to a resurgence of interest in Civil War history, culminating in the creation of a board game that inadvertently led to more arguments than Monopoly ever did. Historians still argue over who gets to be General Grant.. Fact: Did you know that drafting people into the military can create a whole new generation of historians trying to decipher their ancestors' decisions? It's like a family reunion with casualties..
- Headline: FRIAR FIRST IN THE DRAFT; Franciscan Cleric One of Five in Morris With Number 158. Impact: This cleric's enlistment led to an unexpected trend of religious figures joining the military, which inspired a series of overly dramatic war movies in the 1950s. Spoiler alert: they didn't all end well.. Fact: Did you know that the clergy's involvement in war has been a thing for centuries? At least this time they weren't just using holy water to ward off bullets..
- Headline: MEXICO-U.S. ACCORD SEEN BY CARDENAS; Navy and Air Bases to Be Part of 'Settlement'--Embargo on Metals Is Denied Hopeful Picture Painted. Impact: This diplomatic dance between Mexico and the U.S. led to a series of trade agreements that accidentally introduced taco trucks to every corner of North America, thus changing the culinary landscape forever.. Fact: Did you know that taco trucks are now considered an essential part of American culture? Who knew that a diplomatic agreement could taste so good?.
- Headline: President's Appeal to Those Called in Draft. Impact: Roosevelt's direct appeal to draftees inadvertently led to the creation of motivational posters that were more about cats than courage. Future generations would forever be confused by 'Hang in There' imagery on military bases.. Fact: Did you know that the draft has inspired more motivational slogans than actual motivation? Just ask anyone who has ever been through boot camp..
- Headline: More Japanese Schools Are Closed by Brazil. Impact: The closure of these schools sparked a wave of cultural exchange that resulted in sushi being served at every Brazilian barbecue. Because who doesn't want to mix raw fish with grilled meat?. Fact: Did you know that the fusion of cultures can lead to some of the most unique culinary experiences? Like sushi tacos, anyone?.
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1940, it would be worth $3,433,941 today (3433.9x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1940, it would be worth $586,657 today (586.7x return)
KMB
Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark - If you invested $1,000 in 1940, it would be worth $147,887 today (147.9x return)