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 17, 1974
Full News Archive
- Headline: Examining Sexism in Classic Theater. Impact: The revival of 'A Streetcar Named Desire' sparked a cultural reckoning, leading to a dramatic increase in the number of theater critics who could no longer ignore the glaring issues of sexism in the arts. In a shocking twist, many of these critics later turned into TikTok influencers.. Fact: Did you know that the character Blanche DuBois was originally intended to be a stand-up comedian? The play could have been a real laugh riot!.
- Headline: Muzak, at 40, Develops Plan to Play a New Tune. Impact: Muzak's decision to innovate led to the rise of elevator music as a legitimate genre, ultimately inspiring an underground movement where hipsters would pay top dollar to hear 'new' elevator tracks in trendy cafes.. Fact: Did you know that Muzak's original purpose was to calm down angry shoppers? Imagine a world where 'Don't Stop Believin'' was piped into grocery stores instead!.
- Headline: RULES ON VITAMINS PUT OFF 6 MONTHS. Impact: This delay in vitamin regulations inadvertently led to the rise of 'superfood' marketing, where kale was suddenly considered a miracle cure and everyone's grandmother became a nutritionist overnight.. Fact: Did you know that if you consume too many vitamins, you can actually turn into a walking pharmacy? Just don't forget to refill the prescription!.
- Headline: Books of The Times. Impact: The review of 'Prophets with Honor' sparked a literary renaissance where authors began to write books that were actually interesting, paving the way for the modern 'binge-read' phenomenon. Thanks, Alan Barth!. Fact: Did you know that reading is the only activity where you can have a thrilling adventure without leaving your couch? Talk about a win-win!.
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)