JANUARY 21, 1965

Full News Archive

• Headline: Legacy of Engineer William Frederick. Impact: William Frederick’s untimely demise led to a series of unfortunate engineering mishaps. A bridge constructed shortly after his passing collapsed, setting off a decades-long conspiracy theory that engineers need to be immortal to do their best work. This resulted in a bizarre trend of engineers attempting to freeze themselves for future projects.. Fact: Did you know that if engineers had a safety net for their lives, they might actually finish those blueprints? But alas, life doesn’t come with a warranty..
• Headline: Justice for All: A National Call. Impact: This rallying cry for justice was echoed through time, inspiring countless Hollywood movies. Ironically, the more people demanded justice, the more popcorn sales spiked as they tuned in for the latest courtroom drama, ultimately leading to the invention of the ‘Justice Popcorn’ flavor.. Fact: Fun fact: ‘Justice for All’ was almost the title of a popular snack brand before they realized it didn’t quite capture the essence of buttery goodness..
• Headline: Mrs. Johnson and the Oath Ceremony. Impact: By holding the Bible, Mrs. Johnson inadvertently set the stage for future First Ladies to become unofficial fashion icons as they showcased their 'oath-taking chic.' This led to a revolution in political photo ops, making the Bible the hottest accessory on the campaign trail.. Fact: Did you know that Mrs. Johnson’s grip on the Bible inspired a trend that led to politicians taking their oaths on increasingly ridiculous items? Next up: a taco..
• Headline: SECURITY FORCES ARE LARGEST EVER; Safety Is Insured by F.B.I., Secret Service and 5,000 Policemen and Troops SECURITY FORCES ARE LARGEST EVER. Impact: The unprecedented security measures not only protected the politicians but also kickstarted a nationwide fear that large gatherings could only be safe if everyone came armed with a personal army. This paranoia led to the creation of ‘Security Day’ where everyone donned tactical gear just to go grocery shopping.. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more inflated than the number of security personnel was the egos of the politicians being protected. It’s a wonder they didn’t need their own zip codes..
• Headline: ROBERT C. M'NABB. Impact: Robert C. McNabb’s brief mention in history sparked a fascination with the name ‘McNabb’ that led to a popular series of mystery novels featuring a detective named McNabb who could solve cases with his charm alone. The series was, however, a critical flop.. Fact: Did you know that being a McNabb in history is a bit like being an extra in a film? You might be there, but good luck getting a speaking part..
• Headline: Visiting Texans Rewarded by View of 'Our Boy'. Impact: The affectionate reference to 'Our Boy' led to a nationwide campaign to create a ‘boy’ statue in every state. Unfortunately, thousands of awkward statues later, America decided it was a bad idea and went back to just having monuments of presidents.. Fact: Did you know the phrase 'Our Boy' was almost trademarked but was dropped when it was discovered that it sounded too much like a dog food brand?.
• Headline: U.S. URGED TO EASE GOLD-MONEY TIES; Bankers Association Officer Asks That Legal Link Be Relaxed but Not Cut. Impact: This financial plea caused a ripple effect that led to a bizarre era where people hoarded gold bars as if they were the last chocolate bars on Earth, leading to a reality show called ‘Gold Rush: The Hunger Games.’. Fact: Did you know that bankers are just like gold miners? They both love shiny things and often leave with more than they came for – just ask the taxpayers..
• Headline: ESTES MOPS CELL IN EL PASO'S JAIL; Imprisoned After Revocation of Bail by High Court. Impact: Estes’ unfortunate situation led to a new wave of prison reform discussions that shaped the future of bail laws. Ironically, his cleaning habits inspired future inmates to start a cleaning service behind bars, leading to the first ‘Prison Cleaners’ franchise.. Fact: Did you know that being a jailhouse cleaner is the only job where you’re encouraged to leave your problems at the door? Talk about a unique work environment..
• Headline: The President Beams On Friends and Foes. Impact: The President’s beaming smile inspired countless memes and social media challenges decades later, leading to the phenomenon of politicians smiling awkwardly for the camera, which has now become a rite of passage.. Fact: Did you know that smiling in politics is so contagious that it’s rumored to have sparked a nationwide dental health movement? Everyone wants that ‘presidential smile.’.