Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON January 16, 1977
Full News Archive
- Headline: Congress Expenses Surge Dramatically. Impact: As Congress expenses rose, so too did the average American's cynicism about government spending—ultimately leading to the rise of memes mocking Congress as the world's most expensive reality show.. Fact: Did you know that Congress could hold a contest for 'Most Expensive Coffee Break' and still have money left over for a second round?.
- Headline: Parcel Service Gets Rate Rise. Impact: The rate increase for parcel services sparked a nationwide debate on shipping costs, leading to the creation of the 'Shipping Cost Olympics,' where everyone competes to find the cheapest way to send a birthday gift.. Fact: Did you know that for every 2.9% rate increase, there’s a 10% chance your package will arrive slightly late and with a free side of frustration?.
- Headline: One Divorce—Two Houses. Impact: The rise of young singles setting up households meant that IKEA became the unofficial sponsor of divorce parties, where flat-pack furniture was celebrated as the ultimate symbol of independence.. Fact: Did you know that half of all divorces end with at least one person leaving with a poorly assembled bookshelf? It’s not just the relationship that falls apart!.
- Headline: Religion's Difficult Subject. Impact: The discussion around clerical homosexuality and celibacy might have inadvertently paved the way for the eventual acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in various religious communities, leading to a lot more rainbow banners in pews.. Fact: Did you know that the church’s view on homosexuality could fill a library? Too bad they keep trying to use that space for hymnals instead!.
- Headline: A Journey For Hussein. Impact: Hussein’s journey to collect weapons may have inadvertently inspired future peacekeeping missions to focus less on weapons and more on, say, collecting artisanal cheeses—a pivot that could have changed the face of diplomacy.. Fact: Did you know that peacekeeping forces have a knack for picking up heavy things? But really, they should start a side gig in yoga—flexibility is key!.
- Headline: The Host Who Gets No Pie. Impact: The Republican squabble in Nassau may have foreshadowed a future where political drama rivals reality TV—leading to the creation of 'Real Politicians of Long Island' to document the chaos.. Fact: Did you know that political infighting has been known to increase popcorn sales by at least 20%? Apparently, drama pairs well with snacks!.
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1977, it would be worth $10,678,835 today (10678.8x return)
INTC
Intel
Intel - If you invested $1,000 in 1977, it would be worth $199,890 today (199.9x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1977, it would be worth $414,492 today (414.5x return)