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 4, 1955
Full News Archive
- Headline: Scott Frost Wins Historic Hambletonian Stakes. Impact: Scott Frost's epic win inspired a generation of future horse trainers, who now believe they can also defy the laws of nature... or at least their backyards.. Fact: The phrase 'winning isn't everything' was officially retired after Scott's victory. We all know itβs a lie anyway..
- Headline: Pastor Fined for Drunken Driving Incident. Impact: Rev W B Marshall's tipsy escapade led to stricter laws on drinking and driving, which inadvertently increased the number of designated drivers, thus creating a booming business for Uber decades later.. Fact: It's a little known fact that the Bible actually has a verse about moderation... but I guess Rev Marshall skipped that chapter..
- Headline: Hersholt Heads Relief Fund. Impact: Hersholt's continued presidency of the relief fund kept the wheels of charity turning, ultimately leading to the establishment of several other charitable organizations. All hail the power of a well-meaning actor!. Fact: J. Hersholt is not just a name; heβs the reason your local fundraisers have a celebrity guest. You're welcome!.
- Headline: BREEZE GIVES CITY RELIEF FROM HEAT; Southeast Shift Holds High for Day to 87.1 -- Respite Should Continue Today BREEZE GIVES CITY RELIEF FROM HEAT. Impact: The brief respite from heat due to a breeze caused a spike in ice cream sales, inadvertently starting the summer tradition of 'ice cream for breakfast' that continues to this day.. Fact: The temperature of 87.1Β°F is just nature's way of saying, 'You should really consider moving to Alaska.'.
- Headline: Hungary Ousts Prosecutor. Impact: The ousting of a prosecutor in Hungary created a ripple effect in the justice system, inspiring future leaders to consider 'getting the old guard out' as a new political strategyβbecause who needs stability anyway?. Fact: In Hungary, changing prosecutors is like changing socks: necessary and often overlooked until itβs too late..
- Headline: Ed Sullivan Appears in Play. Impact: Ed Sullivan's stage debut paved the way for future stars, proving that anyone can become famous by simply showing up. The ripple effect? Countless wannabe actors thinking they can just 'do it' too.. Fact: Ed Sullivan became famous for his show, but letβs be real: it was really just an extended commercial for rock and roll..
Wall Street Time Machine
IBM
IBM
IBM - If you invested $1,000 in 1955, it would be worth $205,272 today (205.3x return)
PFE
Pfizer
Pfizer - If you invested $1,000 in 1955, it would be worth $168,691 today (168.7x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1955, it would be worth $3,433,941 today (3433.9x return)