JANUARY 31, 1964

Full News Archive

• Headline: Humphrey Advocates for Civil Rights Progress. Impact: This declaration set off a chain reaction, where every time someone said 'fight to finish,' it made future politicians think they could use the same dramatic flair. Fast forward to today, and we have politicians tweeting hashtags instead of delivering speeches. Thanks, Humphrey!. Fact: Did you know that 'Fight to Finish' became the unofficial slogan of every political debate ever? It’s just one step away from ‘let’s settle this over a game of rock-paper-scissors’.
• Headline: Nuclear Arms Development in 1962. Impact: This event led to a world where nuclear arms were seen as necessary but terrifyingly common. It’s like upgrading your phone every year, except the phone can destroy the world. Oops!. Fact: Did you know that '62 was the year when the A.E.C. decided that testing bombs was more effective than, say, just reading a manual? Smart choice!.
• Headline: World Church Unit's Historic Meeting in Russia. Impact: This historic meeting was like the first time your grandparents met their in-laws: awkward but ultimately paving the way for future family gatherings, or in this case, international dialogues. Just imagine the snacks!. Fact: Did you know that church meetings in Russia were so rare back then they probably considered them a holiday? Bring on the borscht!.
• Headline: HOUSE TO TAKE UP RIGHTS BILL TODAY; VOTE BY FEB. 11 SET; Rules Committee Clears the Measure for Floor Debate —Smith Keeps Promise; HEARINGS LAST 9 DAYS; All 5 Republicans Join With 6 Democrats in Majority — Southerners Opposed. Impact: The passage of this bill was the beginning of what would be political gridlock today. If only everyone could have just agreed to disagree over coffee instead of dragging it out for days. Maybe we’d have fewer 9-day hearings!. Fact: Did you know that this was the original version of 'House Hunters,' where they hunted for votes instead of houses? Spoiler: every episode ended in a debate.
• Headline: RADIO UNIT ORDERS NEW CIGARETTE CODE. Impact: This decision caused a chain reaction in advertising that eventually led to the awkwardness of today’s ‘smoking isn’t cool’ campaigns. Because nothing says 'healthy lifestyle' like a cigarette ad followed by a salad commercial. Fact: Did you know that the only thing tighter than the new cigarette code was the waistband of smokers trying to quit? Good luck with that!.
• Headline: Unruly Crowd Forces Negroes To Cancel Cleveland Picketing. Impact: This event highlighted the ongoing struggle for civil rights, making it clear that sometimes, the fight for justice is interrupted by people who can’t handle a little social progress. Who knew a picket could end in chaos instead of change?. Fact: Did you know that this was one of those moments where you realize that people can be more unruly than a toddler denied their snack? History really does repeat itself!.
• Headline: Canadians Upset Sweden by 3‐1 For 2d Olympic Hockey Victory. Impact: The shock of this upset led to an increase in Canadian pride and a deeper rivalry that would shape hockey history. Who knew a game could spark national identity? Next thing you know, they’re all wearing maple leaf hats!. Fact: Did you know that the Canadians celebrated this victory like they won the lottery? Because in Canada, hockey is practically a religion!.
• Headline: Eisenhower Gives Tip On Quitting Cigarettes. Impact: Eisenhower’s advice sparked a movement of anti-smoking campaigns. If only he had known that years later, people would still struggle with the habit and turn to vaping. Thanks for the tip, Ike!. Fact: Did you know that quitting smoking became the most popular sport in America? Sorry, baseball, you’re out!.