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 July 11, 1983
Full News Archive
- Headline: 200th Anniversary of Society of Cincinnati. Impact: The Connecticut Society of the Cincinnati celebrated its bicentennial, which inadvertently inspired a new trend in historical reenactments, leading to a wildly popular reality show where descendants of Revolutionary War officers compete in various 18th-century challenges. Spoiler alert: George Washington’s wooden teeth were a popular prop.. Fact: The Cincinnati Society was founded in 1783, and despite its name, it has nothing to do with Cincinnati, Ohio. They still haven’t figured out how to rebrand..
- Headline: State Gun Swap Raises Controversy. Impact: This controversial agreement sparked a nationwide debate on the ethics of advertising firearms, leading to a bizarre future where ad agencies were required to feature cuddly animals in all gun commercials. The slogan? 'Guns: They’re as cute as a teddy bear!'. Fact: Beretta is known for its firearms, but it's also a name in fashion. Who knew that your next gun could come with a designer label?.
- Headline: RENT-CONTROL FOES STILL AT LOGGERHEADS. Impact: The ongoing battle over rent control led to a bizarre future where landlords were required to wear clown shoes to symbolize the ridiculousness of their demands. This led to a surge in circus-themed apartment complexes. Rent is still high, but at least you get a balloon animal.. Fact: The most famous rent-control battle took place in New York City, where landlords once tried to charge rent in gold doubloons—because, you know, inflation..
- Headline: NOISE RULE CALLED THREAT TO AUTO RACING. Impact: The noise ordinance led to a new era of silent racing, where cars were powered by solar energy and drivers communicated via interpretive dance. Surprisingly, this was a hit at the Olympics!. Fact: Auto racing is one of the loudest sports in the world. So, if you thought silence was golden, you might want to rethink your choice of motorsport..
- Headline: LYME DISEASE CAUSING CONCERN IN PARTS OF COUNTRY. Impact: The growing concern over Lyme disease led to the creation of a superhero named 'Captain Tick,' who fought against disease-carrying bugs and promoted the use of bug spray. His catchphrase? 'Keep the bugs away, and save the day!'. Fact: Lyme disease is named after Lyme, Connecticut, where it was first identified. Who knew that a small town could have such a big impact on the health of many?.
- Headline: HOMESEXUALS OFFER HELP IN AIDS STUDY. Impact: This collaboration in AIDS research fostered a sense of community and activism that ultimately led to the establishment of Pride parades worldwide, transforming cities into vibrant celebrations of love and acceptance.. Fact: The early response to AIDS was marked by stigma, but the bravery of those who stepped forward for research was the spark that ignited a global movement for LGBTQ+ rights..
- Headline: THREE SISTERS TALK WITH HORSES. Impact: The Clayton sisters’ unique connection with horses inspired a wave of equine therapy programs, leading to a future where therapy animals are now a requirement for every office job. Your boss might just be a golden retriever!. Fact: Horses are known for their ability to sense human emotions, which is probably why they never hang out with people who don’t like carrots..
- Headline: A GROWING STORM OVER INTEREST RATES. Impact: Volcker's testimony on interest rates set off a chain reaction that eventually led to people hoarding cash in their mattresses, resulting in a new trend in home décor featuring plush pillow safes. Who knew inflation could inspire interior design?. Fact: Interest rates are like the weather—everyone talks about them, but no one really knows how they work. You might as well consult a fortune teller!.
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1983, it would be worth $784,047 today (784.0x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1983, it would be worth $188,194 today (188.2x return)