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 July 31, 1951
Full News Archive
- Headline: Bootlegging Concerns Amid Liquor Tax Rise. Impact: The rise in bootlegging led to the creation of the first underground speakeasy themed parties, which eventually evolved into today's hipster bar scene. Who knew that moonshine could lead to artisanal cocktails and overpriced avocado toast?. Fact: Prohibition may have ended in the 1930s, but the desire for 'forbidden' alcohol sparked an ongoing love affair with craft breweries and distilleries. Cheers to that!.
- Headline: Jewelry Heist Shakes Local Community. Impact: The theft of gems from an unlocked window inspired the invention of the keyless entry system... which was promptly ignored by a whole new generation of homeowners.. Fact: Leaving your window unlocked is like putting a 'please rob me' sign on your house. But hey, at least they had good taste in jewelry!.
- Headline: Errol E. Crouter's Notable Contribution. Impact: Errol E. Crouterβs life may have been mundane, but any time someone decides to step into the historical spotlight, it could lead to a future biopicβstarring someone far more famous.. Fact: Crouter might not be a household name, but with the right marketing, he could have been the next big thing. Just imagine the merchandise!.
- Headline: MISS MARY MULFORD. Impact: Mary Mulfordβs presence in the headlines likely led to the realization that women exist and should perhaps be acknowledged in public discourse, paving the way for future feminist movements.. Fact: Mary Mulford probably had more impact on society than most politicians at the time. Just goes to show, sometimes you don't need a title to make a difference!.
- Headline: MASON FRENCH FORD. Impact: Mason French Fordβs mention could suggest that at least one person had an interesting name, which may have inspired an entire generation of parents to get creative with baby names.. Fact: With a name like Mason French Ford, he likely never had trouble standing out in a crowd. Good luck finding a name even half as cool now!.
- Headline: POLITICAL NEGLECT OF WOMEN DECRIED. Impact: The outcry against the political neglect of women led to countless discussions about gender equality, ultimately resulting in more women running for officeβthough some might argue they still have to fight tooth and nail for recognition.. Fact: Years later, weβre still debating the same issues. Itβs like watching a bad sequel of a movie that should have ended after the first one..
- Headline: PALSIED CHILD CARE OUTLINED TO PARENTS. Impact: The outline for caring for palsied children not only provided resources for parents but also became an early blueprint for modern special education, proving that sometimes, good intentions can lead to systematic change.. Fact: This initiative was a big deal back then. Now, we just have TikTok influencers giving parenting advice. Progress... sort of?.
- Headline: JACOB SWEET. Impact: Jacob Sweet's name might not ring any bells, but every time someone mentions 'sweet' in a historical context, they could be unwittingly channeling him. Thank you, Jacob, for the accidental legacy!. Fact: If Jacob Sweet had a candy named after him, it would have been a sugary sensation. Sadly, history didnβt quite pan out that way..
- Headline: BOARD OF ESTIMATE PONDERS FINANCING; Unbalance of Budget Again Is Debated in Second All-Day Closed Session in Week Order to Cut Expenditures. Impact: The Board of Estimate's budget discussions undoubtedly triggered a series of uninspired meetings that continue to plague city councils to this day, proving that some things never change.. Fact: Budget meetings: the adult version of a group project where no one wants to do the work but everyone wants a say. Welcome to democracy!.
- Headline: City's Gift Sword on Display. Impact: The display of the San Martin sword may have sparked a fascination with historical weaponry, leading to a bizarre collection trend among history buffs and wannabe knights.. Fact: Displaying swords has become a popular way to show off your 'cool' factor. Just remember, theyβre not as effective at warding off intruders as you might think!.
Wall Street Time Machine
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1951, it would be worth $586,657 today (586.7x return)
MO
Philip Morris
Philip Morris - If you invested $1,000 in 1951, it would be worth $23,651,345 today (23651.3x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1951, it would be worth $474,914 today (474.9x return)