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 August 30, 1984
Full News Archive
- Headline: Saudi Involvement in Bird Smuggling Revealed. Impact: This smuggling incident sparked a 50-year underground movement where smugglers later attempted to train birds of prey to deliver messages across international borders. Ironically, they ended up creating the world's first feathered postal service, which was promptly shut down due to avian union strikes.. Fact: Did you know that the term 'diplomatic privilege' was originally meant for human diplomats? Clearly, someone forgot to read the fine print..
- Headline: Essential Reads for Antiques Enthusiasts. Impact: The publication of these books led to an unexpected boom in the antique restoration market. By 2023, entire neighborhoods had transformed into antique buff communes where people argued passionately about the merits of 18th-century French furniture while sipping overpriced lattes.. Fact: Did you know that repairing antiques is just like dating? You spend a lot of time trying to fix something that’s fundamentally broken and hope it doesn’t fall apart in your hands..
- Headline: Innovative Cleaning Tools Debut. Impact: The introduction of these cleaning appliances triggered a global obsession with cleanliness that eventually led to a society where people were penalized for having a speck of dust. 'Dust-Free Zones' became mandatory, resulting in a massive black market for dust bunnies.. Fact: Did you know that 'quick cleanups' was once just a euphemism for shoving everything under the couch? Now it’s an Olympic sport..
- Headline: HERS. Impact: This innocent radio purchase led to a decade-long battle in the town over the best barn entertainment. Eventually, it culminated in the 'Barn Beat Battle,' where farmers showcased their chickens' dancing skills to the latest tunes, revolutionizing rural nightlife.. Fact: Did you know that chickens are known for their unparalleled taste in music? They prefer classical, but only if it's played on a radio that’s not easily knockoverable..
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)