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 24, 1984
Full News Archive
- Headline: Seagram's Entry into Premium Scotch Market. Impact: The launch of Royal Paisley sparked an underground movement among scotch enthusiasts who now consider it their duty to find the most obscure brands, leading to a secret society devoted to tasting scotch from the most remote distilleries. Meanwhile, Seagram's stock plummets as they realize hipsters prefer 'unmarketed' over 'Royal'.. Fact: Did you know that scotch enthusiasts will pay an arm and a leg for a bottle that's been aged longer than their last relationship? Talk about liquid heartbreak!.
- Headline: Debt Crisis in Developing Nations. Impact: The financial struggles of debtor countries led to a global 'Debt Olympics' where nations compete for the highest interest rates. Surprisingly, the gold medal goes to the country that can delay payment the longest, which is essentially the Olympic spirit in a nutshell.. Fact: Fun fact: If you ever feel like you're drowning in debt, just remember that countries do it too, but with more zeros and less sympathy..
- Headline: Unlocking the History of Privacy Locks. Impact: The introduction of privacy locks heralded the rise of 'Do Not Disturb' signs everywhere. This eventually evolved into an international culture of personal boundaries where even introverts needed a lock on their emotional availability.. Fact: Did you know that the first privacy lock was invented because someone didn’t want to share their bathroom? The ultimate act of self-preservation!.
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1984, it would be worth $490,961 today (491.0x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1984, it would be worth $222,603 today (222.6x return)
MCD
McDonald's
McDonald's - If you invested $1,000 in 1984, it would be worth $271,190 today (271.2x return)