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, 1974
Full News Archive
- Headline: US Halts Arms Sales to Egypt Decision. Impact: The U.S. deciding to hold off on arms sales created a ripple effect that led to Egypt's strategic pivot towards other arms suppliers. This eventually resulted in a game of international arms tag that no one wanted to play, and some say it indirectly led to a global shortage of 'good decisions'.. Fact: Did you know that foreign arms deals are often less about military strategy and more about who can throw the best cocktail party?.
- Headline: Skepticism Grows Over Saigon's Alarm Signals. Impact: Saigon's alarmist tactics began a legacy of governments crying wolf, leading to a world where headlines are often met with eye rolls and a collective 'Yeah, right'. This ultimately paved the way for social media memes about fake news.. Fact: In the world of crises, it turns out that 'crying wolf' is a great way to lose credibility—who knew?.
- Headline: Brandt Arrives in Algeria. To Talk With Boumediene. Impact: Chancellor Brandt's friendly chat with Boumediene set off a chain reaction that led to countless diplomatic meetings where coffee was served, and no one could agree on anything. It's said that the coffee was the real winner here.. Fact: You know diplomacy is serious business when the leaders involved decide to meet over coffee instead of sending each other passive-aggressive emails..
- Headline: INDIAN AT U.N. SEES FOOD GAIN IN PERIL. Impact: Swaran Singh's warnings about food production led to a heightened global awareness of food security, which ironically resulted in more people taking selfies with their food than ever before. Thanks, Swaran!. Fact: Fun fact: Food insecurity is a serious issue, but it doesn't stop people from posting pictures of their avocado toast..
- Headline: SPASSKY AND KARPOV DRAW FOURTH GAME. Impact: The draw between Spassky and Karpov became a pivotal moment in chess history that encouraged countless future players to realize that sometimes, a stalemate is the best they can hope for in life—much like in their romantic relationships.. Fact: Did you know that chess draws are just as thrilling as watching paint dry? Both require patience and a strong will to endure..
- Headline: Buffalo Philharmonic Is Different. Impact: The Buffalo Philharmonic's unique concert sparked a movement where orchestras began to incorporate modern elements into classical music, paving the way for the bizarre phenomenon of 'classical crossover' that still confuses purists today.. Fact: If you think classical music is only for the elite, just remember: even Beethoven had to start somewhere, probably in a basement jamming with friends..
- Headline: Mideast Policy And Oil. Impact: The discussion about Middle Eastern oil and its political implications sparked a frenzy of geopolitical maneuvering that still influences global politics today. It's like a game of chess, except the stakes are higher and the pieces are made of oil rigs.. Fact: Oil is often referred to as 'black gold', but in reality, it’s more like a really awkward family reunion where everyone is vying for attention and no one wants to share..
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)