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 August 14, 1947
Full News Archive
- Headline: Women Urged to Confront Challenges. Impact: This meeting triggered a chain of events leading to women becoming CEOs, which ultimately resulted in the rise of 'Women in Power' memes in the 21st century. Who knew a little reality check could lead to a meme revolution?. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'pulling their weight' was actually invented by someone who had never seen a college student attempt to pull anything heavier than a pizza box?.
- Headline: Marshall's Departure for Rio Conference. Impact: Marshall's trip to Rio inadvertently inspired a whole genre of travel blogs dedicated to 'How to Look Important While Traveling'βa trend that will eventually lead to Instagram influencers with questionable advice.. Fact: Did you know that Truman's farewell included a last-minute reminder to pack sunscreen? Because nothing says diplomacy like a sunburn..
- Headline: Call for Boarding Homes for Seniors. Impact: The appeal for boarding homes sparked a nationwide trend in elderly wellness retreats, leading to a future where seniors become yoga instructors and influencers. Namaste, indeed.. Fact: Did you know that the term 'boarding home' was originally coined by someone who couldn't decide between 'boarding' and 'boarding pass'? They just really wanted to travel..
- Headline: Food Situation Critical. Impact: As food shortages expanded, the event indirectly led to the rise of survivalist communities. Fast forward to 2023, and you have people prepping like they're auditioning for a reality show.. Fact: Did you know that in the future, people will hoard toilet paper more than food? Talk about priorities!.
- Headline: RUSSIAN SHAKE-UP IN ZONE REPORTED; ' Thorough House-Cleaning' Is Attributed to Failure to Win Greater German Support. Impact: The shake-up in the USSR actually led to a secret society of bureaucrats that believed shaking things up was a valid strategy for winning supportβspoiler alert: it wasn't.. Fact: Did you know that 'thorough house-cleaning' in political terms often means moving furniture around rather than actually cleaning anything? Classic..
- Headline: GRAND JURY URGES STATE TO LEGALIZE OFF-TRACK BETTING; Queens Body Calls Present Law Unenforceable and Fostering 'Ugly Growth' of Rackets JUDGE PRAISES FINDINGS Jurors' Second Presentment Calls for Rout of 'Financial Barons' Behind 'Bookies' GRAND JURY URGES OFF-TRACK BETTING. Impact: The push to legalize off-track betting paved the way for an entire industry of online gambling. Who would have thought that a bunch of jurors barking about 'financial barons' would lead to people betting on virtual cat races?. Fact: Did you know that the term 'racket' originally referred to the sound of cash being thrown around? Because that's exactly what happens in legalized betting..
- Headline: Flee Mine Conscription. Impact: The draft orders led to a mass exodus of laborers, which ironically contributed to a booming job market in less-than-glamorous professions. Thanks, USSR, for the unexpected job fair!. Fact: Did you know that fleeing from conscription is considered the original form of remote work? Just change your location and avoid the office!.
- Headline: 2 Japanese Guards Sentenced. Impact: The sentencing of guards for abusing POWs was a catalyst for international human rights laws. Who knew a little justice could lead to a global obsession with hashtags?. Fact: Did you know that the guards' names are now used as the standard for 'what not to do' when dealing with prisoners? Talk about a legacy!.
- Headline: Coal Users Warned to Fill Bins Or Face Possible Winter Shortage; COAL USERS URGED TO FILL BINS NOW. Impact: The warning to fill coal bins resulted in a future where people stockpiled not just coal but also artisanal firewood for their Pinterest-worthy fires. Sustainability, right?. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'winter is coming' was actually inspired by coal shortages? Just kidding, it was 'Game of Thrones'... or was it?.
- Headline: Fire Sweeps Cape Breton Isle. Impact: The devastation of Cape Breton Isle led to a 'Forest Fire Awareness Month' initiative that somehow turned into a festival featuring s'mores and campfire stories, completely missing the point.. Fact: Did you know that the fire was so intense that even the local wildlife started sending out evacuation notices? Just imagine a deer with a 'Get Out!' sign!.
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1947, it would be worth $3,433,943 today (3433.9x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1947, it would be worth $586,657 today (586.7x return)
KMB
Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark - If you invested $1,000 in 1947, it would be worth $147,887 today (147.9x return)