NOVEMBER 7, 1946

Full News Archive

• Headline: Aaland Islands Gain Legislative Freedom. Impact: The Aaland Islands gained autonomy, setting off a chain reaction that would eventually inspire every island in the world to demand their own independence. Thanks to this, we now have a plethora of tiny, self-governing islands filled with people who argue about whether a coconut is a fruit or a nut.. Fact: Did you know that the Aaland Islands are home to more sheep than people? Maybe they just wanted to be free from the woolly oppression!.
• Headline: Frank O. Watts: Banking Pioneer Passes Away. Impact: Frank O. Watts' death led to a minor financial panic in St. Louis. Ironically, it was later discovered that the panic was just people looking for a seat at the bank's memorial service.. Fact: Frank O. Watts once said the best investment is in your community. Too bad he didn’t invest in a good health plan!.
• Headline: France to End Tobacco Ration. Impact: Ending tobacco rations led to a spike in smoking and, believe it or not, a new trend of people blowing smoke rings shaped like famous politicians. This somehow became an art form, and galleries sprung up all over the world.. Fact: Did you know that in some cultures, smoke rings are considered a sign of good luck? Too bad they didn't come with a health warning!.
• Headline: BUSY YEARS SEEN IN PAINT INDUSTRY; Head of National Association Says Lack of Materials Held Trade Back. Impact: The paint industry’s struggles during this era inadvertently led to a boom in DIY home improvement shows decades later. People suddenly realized they could paint their walls without hiring a professional—who knew a little blue could lead to a nationwide trend of 'what was I thinking?!'. Fact: Fun fact: The most popular paint color in history is beige. Because nothing says 'I'm adventurous!' like a wall that looks like oatmeal..
• Headline: Drug Salesmen Go on Strike. Impact: The drug salesmen's strike was the catalyst for the rise of online pharmacies. Little did they know, their protest would lead to people ordering questionable medications from the depths of the internet. Thanks, guys!. Fact: Did you know that the first online pharmacy was launched in 1999? They never saw the strike coming!.
• Headline: ASKS SOCIAL SERVICES BROADEN LEADERSHIP. Impact: Prof F. Sytz's call for broader leadership led to a series of community organizing movements, which eventually resulted in a beloved annual festival where low-income groups gather to argue over who gets the last slice of pizza.. Fact: Interestingly, the phrase 'voluntary leadership' is often interpreted as 'let's all just wing it together and hope for the best!'.
• Headline: TRADE UNIT URGES FEDERAL ECONOMY; State Chamber Calls for 'Drastic' Cut in Spending, Taxes and Personnel. Impact: The call for a federal economy and drastic cuts sparked a wave of budget meetings so boring they could put a caffeinated squirrel to sleep. It also led to a national shortage of coffee because everyone suddenly needed it to survive the meetings.. Fact: Fun fact: The State Chamber of Commerce’s resolution was so drastic it might as well have included cutting the lights off in the office!.