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 March 7, 1974
Full News Archive
- Headline: Cash Contributions and Political Trials. Impact: If only Harry L Sears had just kept his mouth shut, we might have avoided the whole Watergate scandal. But alas, that $200,000 in cash was the start of a slippery slope that led to a whole lot of resignations and a permanent distrust in government. Thanks, Harry!. Fact: Did you know that cash is still king, even in political scandals? Next time you're tempted to slip a bill to a candidate, remember this moment in history!.
- Headline: Danish Municipal Elections Shift Political Landscape. Impact: The Danish voters’ rejection of established parties over tax issues can be seen as the beginning of the end for the boring political landscape in Europe. Who knew that a few tax cuts could lead to the rise of quirky parties and endless debates about hot dog taxes?. Fact: Fun fact: In Denmark, they have a tax on sugar. So if you think the tax cuts helped, just wait until they try to cut back on the pastries!.
- Headline: Captivating Performance by Japan Trio. Impact: This performance by the Japan Trio likely inspired an international surge in sushi bars, karaoke nights, and a worldwide obsession with Hello Kitty. You can thank their musical genius for your next awkward karaoke outing!. Fact: Did you know that karaoke was invented in Japan? So, really, all roads lead back to this trio's performance. It's like a musical butterfly effect!.
- Headline: I.C.C. Tells Smokers to Sit In Back of Interstate Buses. Impact: This decision to banish smokers to the back of the bus could be seen as the first step toward a world where we all live in bubble-wrap. Thanks to this, we now have designated smoking areas everywhere, including at your local Starbucks!. Fact: Did you know that the term 'smoking area' was originally used to describe the back of the bus? And now look where we are: outside in the rain, huddled under an awning..
- Headline: Paris Rejects Criticism. Impact: Paris' sharp rebuttal to American criticism might be the reason French people are still rolling their eyes at Americans today. Every time someone orders a 'French fry,' remember that moment of defiance.. Fact: Did you know that the French take their fries very seriously? In fact, they prefer calling them 'pommes frites,' which sounds way fancier than just 'fries'..
- Headline: Professional Gamblers Copy Churches' ‘Las Vegas Nites’. Impact: This clever move by professional gamblers to mimic church fundraisers could have led to the blending of sacred and shady practices in America, paving the way for bingo nights at your local parish!. Fact: Did you know that Las Vegas Nites are still a thing? Because apparently, the holy grail of fundraising is now synonymous with the thrill of gambling!.
- Headline: U.S. AIDE IN INDIA CRITICIZED AGAIN. Impact: American Ambassador Daniel Patrick Moynihan's comments could have sparked a long-standing diplomatic feud, leading to a series of memes about American arrogance that still circulate today. Thanks, Moynihan!. Fact: Did you know that Diego Garcia is now a U.S. military base? So, if you’re ever up for a vacation, maybe steer clear of that island!.
- Headline: Bahamas to Try American. Impact: The trial of Michaia Shobek in the Bahamas might have led to an uptick in cautionary tales about vacationing in paradise. Now, tourists are more likely to double-check their travel insurance before hitting the beaches!. Fact: Did you know that the Bahamas has a crime rate that’s higher than you’d expect for a postcard-perfect vacation spot? Just goes to show, paradise isn't always what it seems!.
Wall Street Time Machine
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1974, it would be worth $222,233 today (222.2x return)
MO
Philip Morris
Philip Morris - If you invested $1,000 in 1974, it would be worth $2,553,677 today (2553.7x return)
BA
Boeing
Boeing - If you invested $1,000 in 1974, it would be worth $1,592,290 today (1592.3x return)