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 November 7, 1978
Full News Archive
- Headline: Moderate Earthquake Rocks Hokkaido. Impact: The earthquake in Hokkaido caused a butterfly effect that led to the creation of elaborate earthquake safety drills in schools worldwide. Because nothing says 'learning' like practicing how to dive under a desk while your teacher tries to maintain order amidst chaos.. Fact: Did you know that earthquakes can sometimes make people more flexible? Just look at how quickly officials adapt their disaster response plans—it's like watching a really intense game of Twister!.
- Headline: UN Arms Embargo Vote Failed for Arabs. Impact: This failed attempt at the UN was the spark that ignited countless late-night political debates in living rooms across the globe. Who knew that a bunch of diplomats arguing could lead to so many awkward family gatherings?. Fact: Did you know that the UN is like a giant group project where everyone pretends to work together but is actually just waiting for someone else to do the heavy lifting?.
- Headline: US-South Korea Strengthen Military Alliance. Impact: The arrival of Defense Sec Brown in Seoul was like the boring sequel to an action movie where everyone forgot to bring popcorn. This event subtly influenced Korea's military strategies, resulting in a decades-long dance of diplomacy and cautious glances.. Fact: Fun fact: the term 'Combined Forces Command' sounds way cooler than it actually is—it’s basically a fancy way of saying, 'We're trying to play nice, but we’re still ready to throw down if needed.'.
- Headline: CURRENCY. Impact: The dollar's strong performance became a trendsetter, inspiring other currencies to hit the gym and get fit. Little did they know, this obsession with strength would lead to bizarre conversations about currency crossfit.. Fact: Did you know that gold prices fluctuating can make investors feel like they’re on a rollercoaster? Strap in, because the ride is always thrilling (and terrifying)!.
- Headline: Chinese Seem To Ease Reins On Economy. Impact: China's economic easing was the first domino in a long line of global economic changes. You could say it was the 'Gateway Drug' to capitalism—who knew that a little market freedom could lead to a full-blown capitalist binge?. Fact: Did you know that Teng Hsiao-ping's name literally means 'to be victorious'? Talk about setting high expectations for economic reform!.
- Headline: Iran's Students and Merchants Form Unlikely Alliance Against Shah. Impact: The alliance between students and merchants against the Shah was like the ultimate buddy cop movie—unexpected partners teaming up against a common enemy. This would eventually lead to a revolution and a lot of confused history students.. Fact: Did you know that sometimes the most unlikely alliances can turn the tide of history? It’s like finding out your cat and dog are best friends; shocking, yet oddly heartwarming..
- Headline: Argentine Chief Shuffles Cabinet But Gives No Role to the Parties. Impact: The Argentine cabinet shuffle was the political equivalent of rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. Spoiler alert: it didn’t help the economy, but it kept the drama alive.. Fact: Did you know that cabinet shuffles are like political musical chairs? The music stops, and someone always ends up without a seat—usually the citizens!.
- Headline: ARAB LEAGUE BARS MEETINGS IN CAIRO. Impact: The Arab League's barring of meetings in Cairo was the political equivalent of a high school clique deciding not to hang out in the cafeteria. This decision had long-term effects on diplomatic relations, but hey, at least they stuck to their principles.. Fact: Did you know that political meetings sometimes feel like a group therapy session? Everyone’s talking, but nobody’s really listening—especially when it comes to peace talks..
- Headline: Civil Servants in Ghana Strike. Impact: The civil servants' strike in Ghana was a wake-up call that echoed through the economy, leading to a series of unfortunate events including inflated egos and deflated wallets. Who knew that protesting could spark such a dramatic economic rollercoaster?. Fact: Did you know that strikes are like the economy’s way of throwing a tantrum? ‘I don’t want to work until you fix things!’—sounds a lot like a toddler, doesn’t it?.
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)