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 16, 1975
Full News Archive
- Headline: Economic Leadership Proposal Initiative. Impact: This proposal, if taken seriously, could have led to a generation of economists who understood that money doesn’t just grow on trees, but rather on well-planned policies. Imagine a world where economists are actually liked at parties!. Fact: Prof. Leontief’s ideas might have been better received if only he had come with a catchy hashtag or a TikTok dance..
- Headline: Innovative Windmill Revolutionizes Home Energy. Impact: The introduction of the Zephyr Wind Dynamo could have set off a chain reaction of eco-friendly inventions, leading to a future where wind-powered everything is the norm—except maybe for your neighbor's wind chimes, which are just noise pollution.. Fact: If only this wind generator could also power your neighbor's incessant lawn mower, we’d be living in utopia..
- Headline: The Economic Surge of Iran in the 1970s. Impact: Iran's rapid growth could have changed the political landscape of the Middle East, potentially preventing some conflicts, or at least making them trendier with more Instagram influencers involved. #IranianGrowth.. Fact: At this rate, Iran could have been a rollercoaster theme park by now, complete with thrilling growth rate rides!.
- Headline: Pop Notes: Here Comes the King of Shock Rock. Impact: The price reductions by record companies could have led to a wave of underappreciated artists finally receiving recognition, resulting in a world where good music is valued over catchy TikTok soundbites. What a dream!. Fact: Columbia Records thought they could sell more albums by just lowering prices—spoiler alert: they were right!.
- Headline: ‘Old Ironsides’ Reopened. Impact: Reopening 'Old Ironsides' may have sparked a resurgence in naval pride, with citizens across the nation suddenly realizing that warships are not just for battles, but also for Instagram selfies.. Fact: Fun fact: Old Ironsides has survived more storms than most modern ships, and yet still can’t seem to survive a family outing without a few grumpy sailors..
- Headline: THE ECONOMIC SCENE. Impact: The debate over the oil depletion allowance could have led to a monumental shift in energy policy, possibly prompting a transition to renewable resources a few decades earlier. Or, you know, just more arguing.. Fact: This debate has lasted so long, it could probably host its own talk show, 'The Real Housewives of Oil Depletion Allowance.'.
- Headline: Spinola May Have Aided Left With Coup Attempt. Impact: Spinola’s coup attempt could have inadvertently made the Communist party more appealing, resulting in a very different Portugal and perhaps an alternative universe where they have the best pastry shops in the world.. Fact: In politics, even the worst plans can have unintended consequences, kind of like how pineapple on pizza still exists..
- Headline: An Old New England Tradition Solves the Sugar Problem. Impact: Substituting maple syrup for sugar could have led to a sweet revolution, changing the way we consume sugar and possibly creating a national shortage of pancakes. The horror!. Fact: Who knew that the solution to the sugar crisis was literally hanging from trees? Talk about a sticky situation!.
- Headline: Saigon Police Kill French Newsman. Impact: The tragic death of journalist Paul Leandri could have brought international attention to the dangers faced by reporters, leading to stricter protocols and perhaps a few less reckless police actions—if only people listened.. Fact: Leandri’s death underscores the perils of journalism during tumultuous times, a reality that continues to this day, proving that not all heroes wear capes—some carry cameras..
Wall Street Time Machine
MO
Philip Morris
Philip Morris - If you invested $1,000 in 1975, it would be worth $2,924,036 today (2924.0x return)
BA
Boeing
Boeing - If you invested $1,000 in 1975, it would be worth $1,159,830 today (1159.8x return)
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1975, it would be worth $32,670,879 today (32670.9x return)