Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON November 28, 1940
Full News Archive
- Headline: Ex-Premier Assassinated in Rumanian Purge. Impact: The assassination of the ex-premier triggered a chain reaction of political upheaval that led to a series of questionable leadership changes across Eastern Europe. Who knew that one man's demise could inspire a dozen aspiring dictators to think they could do better?. Fact: Did you know that Rumania's political landscape has been so unstable that it could practically audition for a soap opera?.
- Headline: New School Site Approved in 1940. Impact: Approval for the school site set off a series of community meetings, endless debates about zoning laws, and an unnecessary increase in the use of the phrase 'community engagement' in local government.. Fact: Did you know that approving school sites has become a rite of passage for local politicians? It's like their version of a participation trophy..
- Headline: Vultee Plant Reopens After Strikes. Impact: The workers' return to the Vultee plant sparked a brief surge in airplane production, which ironically led to a spike in armchair pilots and a new generation of couch commanders watching too many war movies.. Fact: Did you know that the FBI was just checking to see if the strikers had any plans to form a union or if they were just really into coffee breaks?.
- Headline: AWARDS TO ARCHITECTS; Langley Scholarships to Be Given by Institute. Impact: The awarding of Langley Scholarships made it possible for future architects to design buildings that would somehow be both functional and incredibly weird-looking. Thanks, modern architecture!. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more prestigious than winning a Langley Scholarship is owning a cat that refuses to acknowledge your existence?.
- Headline: Financial Aid to Britain Is Deferred; Senate Committee Would Act Next Session; LEGISLATION TO AID BRITAIN IS PUT OFF Two Laws Linked Together British Securities to the Fore. Impact: The deferral of financial aid to Britain resulted in a series of procrastinations that would eventually inspire a world of bureaucratic meetings, lengthy debates, and the phrase 'let's table that for now.'. Fact: Did you know that putting off important legislation is a time-honored tradition in politics, right alongside 'passing the buck' and 'making promises you won't keep'?.
- Headline: Isaacs Talks on Housing. Impact: Isaacsβ housing talks led to a temporary increase in real estate speculation, with every aspiring homeowner thinking they could outsmart the market. Spoiler alert: They couldn't.. Fact: Did you know that housing discussions are basically the adult version of kids arguing over who gets the last cookie?.
- Headline: W.R. GALLOWAY DIES IN 12-STORY PLUNGE; Philadelphia Pottery Official, 60, Falls From Hotel Window. Impact: W.R. Galloway's tragic fall prompted a wave of safety regulations that somehow still couldn't prevent other accidents from happening. It's a real testament to human ingenuityβsort of.. Fact: It's important to remember that sometimes, falling from great heights is just a reminder to check your windows and your life choices..
- Headline: THAI BORDER CLASH REPORTED BY VICHY; Colonial Office Says Forces of Bangkok Were Repulsed by Cambodian Fire PONTOON CROSSING TRIED Japan to Demand Reparations From Netherlands Indies for Alleged Affronts. Impact: The Thai border clash inevitably escalated tensions, leading to diplomatic conversations that resembled a game of telephoneβexcept with a lot more shouting and fewer coherent messages.. Fact: Did you know that diplomatic incidents are like family gatherings? Everyone's on edge, and someone is bound to say something regrettable..
- Headline: FUND DRIVE TO OPEN TO AID HOMELESS DOGS; Membership Campaign Will Get Under Way Today. Impact: The fund drive for homeless dogs inspired a nationwide movement, leading to a proliferation of dog-themed merchandise and the rise of 'pet influencers' on social media. Because why not?. Fact: Did you know that dogs are now more popular than most politicians? It's hard to argue with a face that cute!.
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)