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 7, 1977
Full News Archive
- Headline: Khaalis's Son‐in‐Law's Legal Troubles. Impact: If Abdul Ariz had stayed in jail, future generations would have been deprived of countless conspiracy theories about his influence on the underworld. Instead, his release led to an entire genre of crime novels inspired by his life—who knew the prison system could be so creatively liberating?. Fact: Did you know that bail bondsmen are often portrayed as the charming rogues of crime dramas? Maybe they should start offering loyalty cards for frequent offenders!.
- Headline: U.S. Halts Plutonium Fuel Development. Impact: This decision not to pursue plutonium as reactor fuel set off a chain reaction—pun intended—that resulted in the rise of alternative energy sources. Who knew that a single bureaucratic decision could spark the solar revolution? It’s like the butterfly effect, but with solar panels instead of flapping wings.. Fact: Fun fact: Plutonium is a key ingredient in nuclear weapons. So, you know, let’s just say it’s good that the U.S. decided to take a breather on that front!.
- Headline: Political Unrest in the Canary Islands. Impact: The Guanchos may be extinct, but their cultural legacy sparked a series of movements across the Canary Islands. This unrest ultimately led to a vibrant revival of local traditions that culminated in the world’s most confusing tourist brochures. Thanks, ancient Stone Age people!. Fact: Despite being extinct, the Guanchos have become a symbol of identity for the Canaries—proving that sometimes, being dead is the best way to stay relevant..
- Headline: Books: Song Pair. Impact: Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s works have inspired countless aspiring singers, leading to karaoke nights that might make even Schubert cringe. Imagine a world where 'The Trout Quintet' is belted out by tone-deaf enthusiasts at every bar—thanks, literature!. Fact: Did you know that singing in the shower is scientifically proven to improve mood? Too bad nobody ever told the neighbors about your rendition of 'Ave Maria'!.
- Headline: Senate Panel Offers Budget Containing $63.2 Billion Deficit. Impact: This budget proposal set the stage for a never-ending cycle of budget deficits that would eventually lead to an arts and crafts project where Congress learns to balance a checkbook. Spoiler alert: they still haven’t mastered it!. Fact: Did you know that if you stacked $63.2 billion in $1 bills, it would reach space? Just kidding, but it might get you a nice seat in the Senate gallery for the next budget debate!.
- Headline: St. Joe Minerals Unit Plans Coal for Utilities. Impact: This coal contract helped ensure that the coal industry remained a staple in energy production, leading to a world where clean energy became the underdog. Everyone loves an underdog story, especially if it’s powered by fossil fuels!. Fact: Did you know that coal is often called 'black gold'? Because who doesn’t want their energy source to sound like a bad 90s rap album?.
- Headline: Books of The Times. Impact: The reviews in 'Books of The Times' encouraged a whole generation of readers to pick up books, ensuring that the literary debate never dies—even if the print industry does. Who knew a simple book review could be the spark for the next great novel?. Fact: Did you know that a single good book can change your life? Just ask anyone who accidentally read 'War and Peace' while trying to find a quick read!.
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)