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 April 5, 1969
Full News Archive
- Headline: Nixon Eases Dollar Outflow Restrictions. Impact: By easing the outflow of funds, Nixon inadvertently set off a series of international financial crises that led to the rise of questionable cryptocurrency exchanges in the late 2010s. Who knew a tax cut could lead to a digital gold rush?. Fact: Did you know that Nixon's policies are often celebrated for their creativity? Unfortunately, 'creativity' doesn't include 'creating long-term stability.'.
- Headline: Nashville Marches Demand Justice for Ray. Impact: The marches outside Ray's cell sparked a wave of prison reform movements. Ironically, the only thing that truly changed was the number of people who suddenly believed they were experts on prison rights.. Fact: Fun fact: Marching is the only exercise some politicians get, which is probably why they're so out of shape..
- Headline: Despite the Seers, California Survives Doomsday. Impact: The public's reaction to doomsday predictions set the stage for a cultural fascination with apocalyptic scenarios, leading to a genre of films that scare us into buying more popcorn than ever.. Fact: Did you know that California's reputation for earthquakes has led to more movie plots than actual seismic events? Talk about a shaky business model!.
- Headline: Jersey Bus Strike Ends. Impact: The end of the bus strike resulted in riders rejoicing, only for a new strike to emerge in 2023βthis time over the lack of Wi-Fi on buses. Because who needs a smooth commute when you can scroll social media?. Fact: Did you know that bus strikes often lead to more people biking? Which, ironically, makes public transport seem like a luxury. Welcome to the future!.
- Headline: Eisenhower Widow Back in Gettysburg; Plans Not Known. Impact: Mrs. Eisenhower's return to Gettysburg inspired a new wave of nostalgia for simpler times, resulting in a resurgence of knitting circles and an inexplicable rise in demand for homemade jams.. Fact: Did you know that Gettysburg is now a hotspot for history buffs and jam enthusiasts alike? Talk about a quirky tourist trap!.
- Headline: CHRISTIANS HERE MARK GOOD FRIDAY; Traditional 3-Hour Services Recall Agony of Jesus. Impact: The Good Friday observances led to a surge in chocolate egg sales, as people sought to sweeten the somber event with sugary distractions. Because nothing says 'agony' like a Cadbury cream egg.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing as sacred as Good Friday is the chocolate industry? It's all about that sweet, sweet profit!.
- Headline: Poison Warning Is Issued For Some Ceramic Spoons. Impact: The ceramic spoon scare resulted in an overhaul of kitchenware safety regulations, which some say led to the rise of the 'kitchen gadget' obsession, blurring the lines between cooking and sheer chaos.. Fact: Did you know that lead spoons were once the height of culinary fashion? Because who doesnβt love a side of poisoning with their salad?.
- Headline: JOHN G. FRUMKES, GARMENT MAKER; An Industry Leader, 72, Dies -Active in Charities. Impact: Frumkes' passing led to a brief renaissance in the garment industry, as people suddenly realized they should probably learn how to sew. Spoiler alert: They didn't.. Fact: Did you know that the garment industry is one of the few places where the phrase 'clothing is optional' is only acceptable when referring to the fashion choices of the 70s?.
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1969, it would be worth $972,040 today (972.0x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1969, it would be worth $527,083 today (527.1x return)
MCD
McDonald's
McDonald's - If you invested $1,000 in 1969, it would be worth $1,470,783 today (1470.8x return)