DECEMBER 17, 1979

Full News Archive

• Headline: Rhodesia Ultimatum: British Strategic Miscalculation?. Impact: This diplomatic misstep led to a series of events that ultimately resulted in the rise of a rather infamous figure named Robert Mugabe. Who knew a misunderstanding over tea could lead to decades of political upheaval?. Fact: Did you know that the British misjudged just about everything in their colonial history? It’s basically their specialty!.
• Headline: East Europeans Rally for U.S. Against Iran. Impact: This moment of support would eventually lead to an overabundance of American fast food chains in Eastern Europe. Nothing says solidarity like a Big Mac!. Fact: Did you know that the East Europeans were just trying to get a taste of freedom? Turns out, they also got a taste for greasy burgers!.
• Headline: Opera: Galina Savova Sings Aïda. Impact: Savova’s American debut would inspire countless future sopranos to believe they could also make it big, leading to an explosion of talent and more questionable opera interpretations. Thanks, Galina!. Fact: Did you know that Aïda has been performed so many times that it’s practically the go-to opera for 'I have no idea what to watch' nights?.
• Headline: Play: ‘My Sister's Keeper’ Staged by Hudson Guild Battling Siblings. Impact: This production sparked a trend of sibling rivalry plays that would dominate theater for years, because nothing says family bonding like public drama.. Fact: Did you know that sibling rivalry is basically just the universe's way of preparing you for adult relationships? Thanks, theater!.
• Headline: Murder Trial of 9 in Radical Group Seen Heating Up Diatribes Delayed Hearings. Impact: The trial ignited a media frenzy that paved the way for sensationalist journalism, where every courtroom drama became a reality show. And we all know how that ended.. Fact: Did you know that courtroom dramas are basically the soap operas for adults? Grab the popcorn!.
• Headline: Cornelia Wallace Going Full Tilt In Palm Beach Hails ‘Family Treatment’. Impact: Cornelia's advocacy for ‘familization therapy’ eventually led to a surge in family therapy sessions, which is great unless you're the family member everyone avoids at Thanksgiving.. Fact: Did you know that ‘family treatment’ is just a fancy way of saying 'let's all sit in a room and pretend we like each other'?.
• Headline: GEORGE HALAS JR., 54, DIES IN CHICAGO President of Pro Football's Bears Was Son of Team's Founder. Impact: His passing marked a significant loss in the sports community, leading to a reevaluation of team legacies and the importance of leadership in sports. A somber reminder of how much a single person can impact a franchise.. Fact: Did you know that George Halas Jr. was part of a family legacy that shaped the NFL? It’s basically a real-life sports soap opera!.