DECEMBER 5, 1940

Full News Archive

• Headline: Federal Aid for Roads in Question. Impact: If only the federal government had poured more money into New York’s roads, perhaps we wouldn't have had a series of potholes so deep they could be classified as a new tourist attraction. Thanks, Washington!. Fact: Did you know that most road funding debates are just an elaborate way for politicians to dodge actual road work? It's like they think if they talk about it long enough, the potholes will magically fill themselves!.
• Headline: Britain and Turkey Strike Trade Pact. Impact: This trade pact with Turkey was just the tip of the iceberg. It set off a chain reaction of financial deals that led to everyone trying to outdo each other in Mediterranean real estate. Who knew a financial deal could lead to a 'Mediterranean Riviera' boom?. Fact: You’d think a financial deal would involve boring spreadsheets, but back then, it was all about who could throw the best Mediterranean-themed party!.
• Headline: BRAZIL IRKED BY BRITAIN; Agitation for Action on Boarding of Coastal Ship Continues. Impact: Brazil's irritation with Britain over ship boarding led to a decade-long rivalry that resulted in more soap operas than diplomatic agreements. It's hard to stay mad when you can binge-watch drama!. Fact: Did you know that 'Brazilian soap operas' are just as spicy as their political disputes? They could have made a reality show out of this whole situation!.
• Headline: UNIONS END TIE-UP OF COASTAL SHIPS; Deck Officers' Group Last to Accept New Contract-After Two Months' Idleness RELEASES 40 FREIGHTERS End of Dispute Breaks Jam in Providing Lumber for Defense Construction. Impact: The end of the coastal ship tie-up meant lumber started flowing like water, leading to a construction boom. Little did they know they were laying the groundwork for future home improvement TV shows!. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more complicated than negotiating a contract for coastal freighters is trying to assemble IKEA furniture with missing parts. Both require a lot of patience and a few strong drinks!.
• Headline: STEEL PLANTS TO EXPAND; Crucible Company to Erect New Structures in Jersey. Impact: Crucible Steel's expansion set off a steel arms race. Soon, every factory was trying to outdo each other, leading to an age where buildings were so sturdy that even the Hulk would have trouble smashing them!. Fact: Did you know that when they say 'iron sharpens iron,' they’re not talking about rival steel companies? But they could be!.
• Headline: LEOPOLD DEFENDED BY HOOVER GROUP; Belgian-American Body Issues Booklet Stressing Surrender by King Was Justified EXPERTS APPROVE COURSE Ex-President Says Country Is Facing Starvation and Heeds Truth About Defeat. Impact: The defense of Leopold by Hoover's group highlighted the complexities of wartime morality, leaving future historians trying to untangle the mess of justifications and realities. Spoiler: It’s a doozy!. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more controversial than surrendering in war is trying to explain it in a history class without causing a riot!.
• Headline: BRITAIN 'GOOD RISK,' SAYS LOAN CHIEF; London Is to Submit a 'Trial Balance'--Financial Expert Arrives Here by Plane. Impact: Britain being labeled a 'good risk' for loans sparked countless financial debates and inspired a generation of economists to become amateur fortune tellers. The crystal ball is now optional!. Fact: Did you know that financial experts are just like fortune tellers but with more spreadsheets? No crystal ball required, just a healthy dose of skepticism!.