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 May 21, 1972
Full News Archive
- Headline: Exploring Cinema's Political Portrayal. Impact: This article led to a decade-long debate about the representation of radical politics in film, leading to an underground film movement that resulted in a cult classic about a sadistic potato farmer. Who knew potatoes could be so terrifying?. Fact: Did you know that the average American filmmaker spends more time worrying about box office returns than accurately depicting political movements? Shocking, right?.
- Headline: Montclair Coach Celebrates 40 Years of Success. Impact: C. Anderson's victory celebrations inspired a generation of sports coaches to adopt a philosophy of eternal optimism, leading to a bizarre phenomenon where winning became synonymous with motivational posters of kittens.. Fact: If you ever wondered why motivational quotes are plastered everywhere, thank coaches like C. Anderson for making positivity a competitive sport!.
- Headline: Consumer Protection in New Jersey. Impact: The NJ Consumer Affairs Division's actions sparked a nationwide movement for consumer rights, which eventually led to the establishment of the ‘Consumer Protection Day’—a holiday celebrated by… well, no one really, but it’s the thought that counts.. Fact: Fun fact: Consumer protection is like a superhero that nobody wants to acknowledge until they get ripped off. Then it's like, 'Where’s my cape?'.
- Headline: PARLEY BACKS STEPS TO AID POORER LANDS. Impact: The UNCTAD plan for poorer lands initiated a global financial scheme that accidentally funded a series of bizarre festivals celebrating the art of barter—ever seen a human pyramid made of coconuts? Now you have!. Fact: The term 'least-developed countries' has a bit of a stigma—it's like being the last one picked in gym class, but at least they get to wear the cool wristbands!.
- Headline: This Trip Is Necessary. Impact: Nixon's eagerness to engage with the USSR led to a series of awkward diplomatic encounters, including a legendary moment where both sides accidentally scheduled a 'potluck' meeting instead of a summit.. Fact: Did you know that diplomatic meetings often have more snacks than actual resolutions? Who knew world peace could be so deliciously elusive?.
- Headline: New Novel. Impact: The release of this new novel inadvertently sparked a trend wherein every aspiring writer felt the need to pen a dystopian saga about sentient appliances. Thank you, technology!. Fact: In an ironic twist, nearly 50% of all novels published since this one have involved refrigerators with existential crises. Talk about chilling narratives!.
- Headline: A search for the American essence. Impact: Rosen's book review inspired a wave of existential crises among readers, leading to a nationwide shortage of self-help books as people scrambled to find meaning in their lives—let’s face it, it’s a tough job!. Fact: The ‘Blues for a Dying Nation’ actually inspired a hit single that played in every coffee shop, but nobody wanted to admit they liked it. #HipsterProblems.
- Headline: WASHINGTON REPORT. Impact: Shultz's views on investments abroad ignited a series of debates that culminated in an annual 'Investment Innovation Day,' where people dress up as their favorite financial instruments. Riveting.. Fact: Did you know that financial instruments have more personality than some of the people who invest in them? Ever met a bond that can crack a joke? Neither have I..
- Headline: Asian Religious Unit Set for Stony Brook. Impact: The establishment of the Asian Religious Unit at Stony Brook created a ripple effect in academia, leading to the world's first scholarly debate on whether cats are divine beings. Spoiler: the cats won.. Fact: Did you know that cats are often considered spiritual creatures in various cultures? So next time you see your cat staring blankly at the wall, it might just be contemplating its next divine intervention..
Wall Street Time Machine
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1972, it would be worth $343,942 today (343.9x return)
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1972, it would be worth $269,286 today (269.3x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1972, it would be worth $292,010 today (292.0x return)