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 June 5, 1978
Full News Archive
- Headline: Bob Barker's Fun and Games Show Tour. Impact: The success of The Bob Barker Fun and Games Show inspired a generation of TV personalities to believe they could just show up and entertain America with questionable games. This eventually led to a world where reality TV stars are considered 'influencers.' Thanks, Bob!. Fact: Did you know that Bob Barker was once a game show host who didn't actually need to give away any prizes? He just had to convince people that they wanted them!.
- Headline: New Nominee Advocates for Black Representation. Impact: This nomination led to a series of political maneuvers that would eventually result in a game of 'who can shout the loudest' in Congress, ultimately leading to the invention of the modern filibuster. Who knew shouting could be so influential?. Fact: Did you know that using influence in politics is basically the same as playing Monopoly? Except in this version, the streets are paved with good intentions and broken promises..
- Headline: Gasoline Retailers Seek Aid. Impact: As gasoline retailers sought aid, they inadvertently kicked off a trend where consumers would start hoarding gas, leading to shortages and panic buying. It was a slippery slope that ended with people using their cars as makeshift bunkers.. Fact: Did you know that gas prices have always been a great conversation starter? Just ask anyone who has ever stood in line at the pump—it's like a therapy session with a fuel nozzle..
- Headline: Many Tacks Shut Out of Brazil's Racial ‘Paradise’. Impact: The exclusion of blacks from Brazil's social fabric created a ripple effect that led to global scrutiny and criticism, ultimately resulting in social movements that questioned who gets to participate in 'paradise.' Spoiler alert: it wasn't everyone.. Fact: Did you know that Brazil is home to the largest black population outside of Africa? Apparently, just existing in paradise doesn’t mean you get a ticket to the party..
- Headline: Sold‐Out Hall Greets Melanie. Impact: Melanie's concert at Carnegie Hall marked a turning point where artists realized that performing in prestigious venues could lead to an inflated sense of self-worth. This paved the way for the 'diva' culture we see today. Thanks, Melanie!. Fact: Did you know that Carnegie Hall has hosted more artists than your average social media influencer? And they didn't even need to pay for followers..
- Headline: Televised Trials Opposed. Impact: The opposition to televised trials sparked a debate about transparency in the justice system, ultimately leading to the invention of true crime podcasts. Because who doesn't want to binge-watch crime while pretending to care about justice?. Fact: Did you know that opposing televised trials is basically like saying you don't want people to enjoy their popcorn while learning about the legal system? Priorities, people!.
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1978, it would be worth $7,945,492 today (7945.5x return)
INTC
Intel
Intel - If you invested $1,000 in 1978, it would be worth $199,890 today (199.9x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1978, it would be worth $423,037 today (423.0x return)