NOVEMBER 13, 1944

Full News Archive

• Headline: Thanksgiving Dinner Price Regulations in 1944. Impact: By fixing the prices of Thanksgiving dinners, the OPA inadvertently set a precedent for future generations to demand price controls on every single pumpkin pie and turkey leg. Fast forward to today, and here we are, debating the price of cranberry sauce like it's a national crisis.. Fact: Did you know that Thanksgiving dinner prices have changed more than your average family’s Thanksgiving guest list? One year it’s Aunt Edna, the next, it’s that weird friend from college you haven’t spoken to in years..
• Headline: KNUTE M. BACKLUND; Assistant Chief Engineer of Jones A Laughlin Steel Dies at 74. Impact: Knute M. Backlund's death sent shockwaves through the steel industry, leading to a sudden demand for engineers. Little did they know that this would eventually lead to a shortage of people who could actually lift things, resulting in the invention of the modern-day 'dad bod.'. Fact: Did you know that the steel industry has more drama than a reality TV show? It’s all about who can lift the heaviest beam while plotting their next corporate takeover..
• Headline: BISHOP WELCH URGES MORE AID FOR CHINA. Impact: Bishop Welch’s appeal for aid to China sparked a series of campaigns that eventually led to the creation of countless charity organizations. This, in turn, resulted in a new way for people to feel good about themselves while posting on social media.. Fact: Did you know that the Bishop’s call for aid was probably the first instance of influencer marketing? He was basically the original charity influencer, but with more robes and less Instagram..
• Headline: AUSTRALIANS HELPED IN LEYTE NAVAL FIGHT. Impact: The Australians' contributions in the Leyte Naval Fight became a key part of their national identity, leading to their reputation as the brave ‘down under’ warriors. Flash forward, and now they just want to be known for their barbecues and beach parties.. Fact: Did you know that Australians have a unique way of celebrating their military history? They throw a barbecue and call it a 'day of remembrance'—because nothing says honor like a good sausage sizzle..
• Headline: Article 5 -- No Title. Impact: The push for more blood donors led to an increase in vampire jokes and the rise of the phrase ‘I don’t want your blood,’ which is now used in every horror movie and awkward date scenario.. Fact: Did you know that blood donation can be a great icebreaker? Just be prepared for the awkward moment when you realize you've given more than just blood—you’ve also shared your life story..
• Headline: NOT ALL JAPANESE HAVE BANZAI SPIRIT; American Engineer Group on Leyte Takes Two Prisoners Without Leaving Base. Impact: The discussion about the Japanese not having the banzai spirit became a point of contention that echoed through military history, eventually leading to a series of memes that would perplex historians for decades. Who knew war strategies could inspire memes?. Fact: Did you know that 'banzai' literally means 'ten thousand years'? So when they shout it, they’re basically wishing for a long life—but no one ever told them it wouldn’t go viral on TikTok..