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 10, 1942
Full News Archive
- Headline: WPB Realigns Textile Division. Impact: This restructuring of the textile division led to a secret society of fabric enthusiasts who, through their influence, ensured that every couch in America was covered in an awful floral print. The butterfly effect? Every hipster cafΓ© today is trying to revive that look.. Fact: Did you know that this was the moment when fabric swatches became the most dangerous weapon in American interior design?.
- Headline: Canadian Broadcasting Monopoly Criticized. Impact: The condemnation of the radio monopoly sparked an underground movement of rogue DJs who, in retaliation, began broadcasting a mix of whale sounds and polka music. This eventually led to the invention of the modern podcast. Thanks, Meighen!. Fact: Fun fact: Before the rise of podcasts, people actually had to talk to each other during long car rides. Shocking, I know..
- Headline: Bohn Aluminum Strike of 1942. Impact: The strike at Bohn Aluminum not only delayed the production of aluminum for war efforts but also inspired a new genre of music known as 'protest blues,' which later evolved into the anthem of every metal band youβve ever cringed at.. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'no pay, no work' was actually invented here? I guess the workers were just too ahead of their time..
- Headline: Final Blow at Nazis in Africa Hastened by Reinforcements; Air Strength Also Growing -- Setbacks in Bizerte-Tunis Area Laid to Fact That Spearheads Overshot Timetable FINAL BLOW AT FOE IN AFRICA CLOSER. Impact: The Allied reinforcements in Africa created a ripple effect that ultimately led to the invention of the helicopter. If only they knew they were ushering in the age of traffic jams and overpriced tours!. Fact: The setbacks in Africa were pivotal, as they taught military strategists everywhere that even the best-laid plans can go awryβjust like your New Yearβs resolutions..
- Headline: TREASURY REVISES PLAN FOR TAX RISE; Officials Are Said to Include Forced Saving in Ideas to Be Proposed Soon WORKING ON DETAILS NOW Higher Social Security Levies and Increased Income Rate Are Likely to Be Urged. Impact: This tax plan revision sent shockwaves through the economy, ultimately leading to the invention of the phrase 'just wait until next yearββa staple in every taxpayer's playbook.. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'forced saving' is just a fancy way of saying 'weβre taking your money whether you like it or not'? Cheers to democracy!.
- Headline: Gestapo Agent Slain in Belgium. Impact: The assassination of the Gestapo agent in Belgium sparked a wave of resistance that would eventually inspire countless action movies and novels, proving that even in the darkest times, heroes can emergeβwhether they wear capes or just really well-tailored suits.. Fact: This incident highlights the bravery of ordinary people standing up against tyranny, a theme that continues to resonate through history..
- Headline: PINK HEADS HOSPITAL PLAN; To Quite State Post Jan. 1 to Take Over New Duties. Impact: When Pink took over the hospital plan, it inadvertently led to the establishment of a national 'hospital fashion week' where scrubs became a runway staple. Now patients are just as likely to be treated by a doctor in designer wear.. Fact: Did you know that hospital plans are basically just blueprints for where to put the snacks? Priorities, people..
- Headline: HELP DENIED TO FOE; Our Planes Turn Back Convoy With Hits by Half-Ton Bombs THREE VESSELS IN FLAMES 10 Japanese Planes Shot Down in Solomons Fight -- U.S. Loses Three Aircraft ENEMY SHIP SUNK, 3 HIT BY U.S. FLIERS. Impact: The success of the U.S. planes in the Solomon Islands led to the creation of countless war movies where pilots are portrayed as invincible heroes. Spoiler alert: They weren't always that lucky.. Fact: While the air battles raged on, ground troops were probably just wishing they could order takeout instead. War is hungry work!.
Wall Street Time Machine
KMB
Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark - If you invested $1,000 in 1942, it would be worth $147,887 today (147.9x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1942, it would be worth $474,914 today (474.9x return)