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 August 25, 1973
Full News Archive
- Headline: Talking Picture Triumphs in Spinaway Stakes. Impact: The victory of Talking Picture at the Spinaway Stakes not only elevated horse racing's profile but also set off a chain reaction leading to a future where horse names became increasingly ridiculous. Imagine a world where a horse named 'Bacon Cheeseburger' wins the Belmont Stakes!. Fact: Did you know that if horses could talk, they’d probably complain about their names just like we do about our Wi-Fi connection? 'Why must I be called Sir Gallops-a-Lot?'.
- Headline: Athens' Strategic Political Maneuvers. Impact: Athens' bold political moves created a ripple effect that eventually led to a time when political appointments were determined by social media popularity rather than qualifications. Thanks, Papadopoulos!. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'it's not what you know, but who you know' was first coined in Athens? They just didn’t have a hashtag for it back then..
- Headline: Witness Threatened by Murder Suspect. Impact: Robert Mora's release and subsequent actions sparked a debate on bail reform, leading to a future where discussions about justice are peppered with the phrase 'But did you see what happened to that guy?'. Fact: Fun fact: The phrase 'out on bail' originally meant 'out on bail, but probably shouldn't be.'.
- Headline: American Golfers Get Edge Over British. Impact: The U.S. golfers defeating British counterparts in the Walker Cup was the catalyst for America's golf obsession, eventually leading to the creation of reality shows where golfers try to survive on a deserted island. Who knew golf could lead to such survival skills?. Fact: Did you know that golf was originally a way to distract the British from their tea addiction? Now, we just distract ourselves with overpriced equipment!.
- Headline: That Happy Hustler Brines His Talkathon to Town. Impact: Bobby Riggs' attention-seeking tennis match against Billie Jean King marked the beginning of athletes realizing that controversy sells tickets, leading to increasingly bizarre matches, like chess boxing. Who knew tennis could lead to the apocalypse?. Fact: Did you know that Riggs once considered challenging a racquetball champion just to get a second match? Spoiler: He lost interest when he found out racquetball courts were indoors..
- Headline: G.O.P. and Dole Out of Suit. Impact: The GOP's legal troubles and the subsequent suit set a precedent for future political scandals, ultimately leading to a world where politicians routinely need lawyers on speed dial. I mean, who doesn't love a good courtroom drama?. Fact: Did you know that the term 'lawyer up' originated from politicians realizing they might need a backup plan once they enter office?.
- Headline: U.S. Exports Set Record, Yielding a Trade Surplus. Impact: The record U.S. exports not only boosted the economy but also inspired future generations to think that larger numbers equate to greater happiness. Thanks to this, the current obsession with likes and followers was born!. Fact: Did you know that farmers were once more excited about crop yields than social media influencers? Now, influencers are just farmers for the digital age..
- Headline: B'nai B'rith Chief Finds Elderly Are Hurt by U.S. Housing Policy. Impact: D.M. Blumberg's critique of housing policy sparked a movement toward affordable housing that fluctuated through decades, leading to a future where 'tiny homes' became a trendy solution and a million DIY YouTube channels launched.. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'affordable housing' used to mean 'a place with four walls and a roof'? Now it includes artisanal woodwork and reclaimed materials..
- Headline: WINE TALK. Impact: The Bordeaux wine scandal led to a global obsession with wine authenticity, creating a future where wine labels are scrutinized more than politicians' resumes. Cheers to that!. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more inflated than wine prices is the ego of the sommelier who just can't let you enjoy a simple glass without a lecture?.
- Headline: COTTON FUTURES SET RECORD PRICE. Impact: The spike in cotton prices set the stage for future fashion trends where people would pay exorbitant amounts for 'vintage' cotton clothing, which really just means 'I bought this at a thrift store.'. Fact: Did you know that in the 1800s, people used to fight over cotton? Now, we fight over who's wearing the most 'distressed' jeans..
Wall Street Time Machine
PG
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble - If you invested $1,000 in 1973, it would be worth $185,625 today (185.6x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1973, it would be worth $200,926 today (200.9x return)
MO
Philip Morris
Philip Morris - If you invested $1,000 in 1973, it would be worth $2,433,689 today (2433.7x return)