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 20, 1971
Full News Archive
- Headline: Shifting Illegitimacy Rates in America. Impact: The drop in the Negro illegitimacy rate sparked a nationwide debate that eventually led to the infamous 'family values' movement of the '80s, which ironically forgot to include actual families in its agenda. The ironic twist? The conversations that sparked from this led to countless sitcoms glorifying broken families, thus creating a cultural phenomenon of dysfunctional humor.. Fact: Did you know that the rise in welfare benefits was initially designed to help families? Well, turns out it just made for great TV drama instead..
- Headline: Chinese Electronics Showcase in Shanghai. Impact: As China opened up Shanghai for scrutiny, it set off a chain reaction that would eventually lead to global tech companies treating China like that one friend who borrows money and never pays you back. Now, every time you buy a gadget, just remember: it probably came from a factory thatβs better at making things than humans are at being humane.. Fact: Did you know that the hydrogen devices showcased in Shanghai are probably the same ones that were used in that one science fiction movie where everything went wrong? Just saying..
- Headline: Securities Officials Agree That Operations Go Well. Impact: The agreement among securities officials to keep operations running smoothly resulted in a temporary illusion of stability, which, as we all know, led to the great market crash of '08. Thanks, guys! Your optimism was just what we needed.. Fact: Did you know that 'illus' is just a fancy way of saying 'we swear everythingβs fine, but weβre probably lying'?.
- Headline: State Curb Urged On Electrical Use. Impact: The call for state curbs on electrical use became the blueprint for future environmental policies, turning energy conservation into a trendy lifestyle choice. Now, hipsters brag about their 'off-the-grid' lifestyles while sipping organic lattes.. Fact: Did you know that the EPA's concern about breathing air has led to more people investing in air purifiers than in their retirement funds?.
- Headline: SOMOZA EXPECTS POLITICAL CHANGE. Impact: Somoza's political stance against Cuba led to decades of tension in Latin America, which ultimately inspired countless songs, movies, and conspiracy theories. Thanks, Somoza, for the endless material for future generations of artists!. Fact: Did you know that opposing Cuba in the OAS is like showing up to a party no one invited you to? Awkward..
- Headline: Agnew Voices Misgivings On the U.S.βChina βThawβ. Impact: Agnew's late-night musings about his political future led to a domino effect of Republican strategies that would later result in 'What were they thinking?' moments that historians still scratch their heads over today.. Fact: Did you know that Agnewβs confusion about being an asset or liability is just a politicianβs way of saying, 'I'm not sure if Iβm more of a help or a hindrance'βwhich honestly, sums up most political careers..
Wall Street Time Machine
INTC
Intel
Intel - If you invested $1,000 in 1971, it would be worth $199,890 today (199.9x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1971, it would be worth $590,335 today (590.3x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1971, it would be worth $373,578 today (373.6x return)