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 March 20, 1943
Full News Archive
- Headline: Two Convictions in NYC Prostitution Case. Impact: The conviction and plea deal set off a chain reaction of social awareness, leading to the eventual establishment of 'Prostitution Awareness Day,' which no one remembers, but hey, it sounded good on paper.. Fact: Did you know that the first 'Compulsory Prostitution Awareness Day' was celebrated with a bake sale? Because nothing screams social justice like cookies!.
- Headline: Tribute to John A. Malloy. Impact: Malloy's passing led to a dramatic shift in editorial standards, resulting in a brief period where newspapers had to rely on actual journalism instead of sensationalism. This lasted about two weeks.. Fact: Fun fact: Malloy once wrote an editorial that inspired a local cat to become a social media influencer. The cat is now worth more than most journalists..
- Headline: William H. Nolan's Lasting Impact. Impact: Nolan's name appearing in headlines is credited with inspiring countless parents to name their children 'William'βa name that would soon be associated with future politicians who would also just be a βNolanβ in the grand scheme of things.. Fact: There's a 50% chance 'William H. Nolan' was just a typo. But hey, typos are the real MVPs of history!.
- Headline: 4,000 Books Contributed. Impact: The influx of books sparked a reading revolution, leading to an unexpected rise in people actually learning things instead of scrolling through social media. This lasted until the invention of the smartphone.. Fact: In a twist of irony, one of the donated books was a 'How to Actually Read' guide, which remains unopened in libraries to this day..
- Headline: REV'. NEIL A. RO. Impact: The mention of Rev. Neil A. Ro led to a sudden spike in the popularity of alliteration, causing future headlines to become increasingly ridiculous. Who needs clarity when you have catchy phrases?. Fact: Rev. Ro once tried to start a trend of preaching in rhyme. It never caught on, but it did lead to some very confused congregations..
- Headline: [Speaker Rayburn's Brother DiesI. Impact: Rayburn's loss highlighted the fragility of political dynasties, leading to a moment of introspection that had politicians contemplating their legaciesβuntil they got distracted by the next big scandal.. Fact: They say behind every great politician is a sibling who wished they had chosen a career in accounting instead..
- Headline: Quits Stock Exchange's Board. Impact: M.D. Safanie's resignation inadvertently set off a series of dramatic boardroom battles, resulting in the famous 'Great Stock Exchange Throwdown' where chairs were flung and egos bruised.. Fact: Insider traders still talk about that fateful meeting as the day they learned that βdramaβ is not just a term for high school plays..
- Headline: 5% Rise in Steel Formula Talked In Capital to Meet Pay Demands; Decision Is Up to President, Who Will See Byrnes on Possible Revision -- Settlement Likely Over Week-End. Impact: This talk of a steel formula rise led to a minor economic boom, which ironically resulted in the creation of 'Steel Tycoon' board games where players can pretend to make decisions that actually matter.. Fact: The only formula that actually worked was the one for making the best hot chocolate during negotiations. It was a sweet deal for all involved..
- Headline: FALL CLOTH SUPPLY SAFE FOR WOMEN; Smart and Warm Garments Will Be Available in Generous Quantity, Officials Say. Impact: This announcement set off a fashion revolution, leading to a temporary halt in the production of unflattering winter wear. Alas, it was short-lived once the 'ugly sweater' craze took over.. Fact: Fashion experts still debate whether the term 'smart garments' refers to the clothes themselves or the people wearing them. Spoiler: it's usually the latter!.
- Headline: MORE AIR RESEARCH. Impact: Increased air research led to the invention of the first air freshener, forever changing the way we deal with smellsβespecially in public restrooms. Thanks, aeronautics!. Fact: The first air freshener was actually called 'Aerosol of the Future' but was renamed after a tragic marketing meeting involving too many puns..
Wall Street Time Machine
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1943, it would be worth $474,914 today (474.9x return)
GE
General Electric
General Electric - If you invested $1,000 in 1943, it would be worth $487,500 today (487.5x return)