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 May 18, 1979
Full News Archive
- Headline: 3 Mile Island Inquiry Stalled by Dispute. Impact: The Senate's refusal to fund the Clinch River breeder reactor led to a decade-long energy crisis that resulted in the invention of the first solar-powered toaster. This toaster would later be responsible for the rise of eco-friendly kitchens and ultimately the downfall of several traditional appliance manufacturers.. Fact: The Senate has been blocking funding since before the invention of the light bulb. Talk about a long-standing tradition!.
- Headline: British Envoy Meets Rhodesian Leader. Impact: This meeting between Duff and Muzorewa inadvertently sparked a series of diplomatic discussions that would eventually lead to the invention of the 'awkward handshake' – a greeting that still leaves many confused today.. Fact: The term 'Rhodesian' has been used in more contexts than most people care to admit, ranging from political discussions to the name of a particularly stubborn breed of dog..
- Headline: Gas Shortage Affects LA Theater Industry. Impact: The gasoline shortage led to a sudden spike in popularity for drive-in theaters, which ironically became the last refuge for films that nobody wanted to see. This trend eventually led to the rise of 'So Bad It’s Good' movie nights.. Fact: The only thing worse than a gas shortage is a shortage of good movie options. Talk about a double whammy!.
- Headline: Title Insurance Challenges Old British Land System. Impact: The introduction of title insurance in Britain sent shockwaves through the legal community, leading to a historic rise in the number of lawyers switching careers to become baristas. Coffee became the new currency in legal circles.. Fact: In Britain, lawyers used to be the only ones allowed to transfer property, which is why most people still think all property transactions are done over a cup of tea..
- Headline: Vote‐Seekers Court Alienated Western Provinces. Impact: The alienation of the Western Provinces led to a series of bizarre political campaigns that included a candidate promising free maple syrup for all. This quirky promise ultimately won over voters more than any serious policy ever could.. Fact: Canadians are known for their politeness, but when it comes to politics, they can be wonderfully unpredictable. Just ask the syrup-loving candidate!.
- Headline: Hoover to Oppose Fuqua Control Bid. Impact: Hoover's resistance to Fuqua's control bid led to a corporate rivalry that resulted in the introduction of boardroom rap battles. These battles eventually changed corporate culture forever, replacing power suits with oversized hoodies.. Fact: The Hoover Company, famous for vacuums, ironically became a symbol of corporate resistance – they just couldn’t suck it up when it came to competition!.
- Headline: United Press International. Impact: Wyszynski's meeting with the Pope sparked a global movement for interfaith dialogue, which eventually led to the creation of a Netflix series featuring clergymen debating over coffee. Ratings skyrocketed, proving that everyone loves a good theological throwdown.. Fact: Popes and cardinals have been kissing hands for centuries, but it's not just a sign of respect; it’s also a great way to avoid awkward small talk!.
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1979, it would be worth $6,997,064 today (6997.1x return)
INTC
Intel
Intel - If you invested $1,000 in 1979, it would be worth $199,890 today (199.9x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1979, it would be worth $417,979 today (418.0x return)