DECEMBER 28, 1955

Full News Archive

• Headline: End of the Paratyphoid Epidemic. Impact: The end of the paratyphoid epidemic led to an increased focus on sanitation and public health, which in turn sparked a global obsession with cleanliness that eventually manifested in the 'clean eating' craze. Who knew that washing your hands could lead to kale smoothies?. Fact: Paratyphoid fever is caused by the same bacteria that leads to typhoid, so basically, it’s like typhoid's less popular sibling. They both wanted to be the life of the party, but only one made it..
• Headline: Boston Museum Exhibits Rare Tapestry. Impact: This tapestry acquisition not only elevated Boston's cultural status but also set off a series of museum rivalries that would eventually lead to the Great Museum Heist of 1987. Turns out, priceless art makes for great conversation—and even better heists.. Fact: This tapestry was so expensive that it could have bought you a small island or a lifetime supply of avocado toast. Choices, choices!.
• Headline: Bonn Trade Surges Past $11.9 Billion. Impact: The trade increase in Bonn set off a chain reaction in global markets, ultimately leading to the establishment of the first international trade summit, where diplomats awkwardly nodded at each other while sipping bad coffee.. Fact: Bonn's trade levels were so shockingly high that it almost made some countries consider actually being nice to each other for a change. Almost..
• Headline: AD MEN ASKED TO BE 'BIPARTISAN' IN 1956. Impact: This bipartisan plea from Sen. Monroney led to the formation of ad agencies that would eventually create political campaigns that turned into reality TV shows. Who knew that elections could become a spectator sport?. Fact: Bipartisanship in advertising is like asking cats and dogs to share a bed—possible but highly unlikely without some serious negotiations and a litter box..
• Headline: FILM GUILD ASKS R. K. O. SALE LIST; Screen Actors to Determine Payment Due Its Members From Video Earnings. Impact: The request for a sale list by the Film Guild led to a wave of transparency in Hollywood that ultimately caused a few actors to realize they were being paid in exposure instead of actual money. Shocking, I know.. Fact: In the world of Hollywood, ‘video earnings’ is just a fancy way of saying ‘we’ll send you a check as soon as we find the right envelope.’.
• Headline: Iowa Corn Crop Highest. Impact: Iowa’s corn crop success sparked a series of corn-related inventions, leading to the creation of an entire festival dedicated to corn. Yes, it really is a-maize-ing what some people will celebrate.. Fact: Iowa corn is so revered that it has its own fan club. Yes, corn fans do exist, and they take their sweet corn very seriously!.
• Headline: A. E. C. Office Manager Quits. Impact: The resignation of the A.E.C. office manager triggered a series of managerial shake-ups that led to the establishment of mandatory coffee breaks in offices everywhere—because who doesn’t need a break from paperwork?. Fact: When an office manager quits, it’s like a game of musical chairs—someone always ends up standing awkwardly in the corner while everyone else enjoys their snacks..
• Headline: Jet Fighter Crashes and Burns in Levittown Street; No One Injured; NONE HURT AS JET BURNS IN STREET. Impact: The crash of the jet fighter led to increased interest in aviation safety regulations, which ironically resulted in more regulations than actual safety. It’s like putting a seatbelt on a rollercoaster.. Fact: Imagine being the neighbors who saw a jet fighter crash and thinking, 'Well, that’s new…' At least no one was hurt, but the barbecue that day must have been quite the conversation starter!.