Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
The Sounds of
The biggest hits of the year — Top 10 Pop & Country chart toppers
HEADLINES ON December 11, 1996
Full News Archive
- Headline: Understanding Sports Transactions Dynamics. Impact: Little did they know, every sports transaction since has led to an exponential rise in fantasy leagues, resulting in millions of fans obsessing over players they can't even pronounce.. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more confusing than a sports transaction is trying to explain it to someone who doesn't care..
- Headline: Daring Family Shoplifting Scheme Exposed. Impact: This bizarre shoplifting saga opened the floodgates for reality TV producers, who now think that rich people stealing is a viable plotline—thanks, Minnesota!. Fact: Ironically, the only thing more expensive than the merchandise they stole was the therapy they likely needed afterward..
- Headline: G.O.P. Lawmaker Defeated in Texas Runoff. Impact: Stockman's defeat was the butterfly flapping its wings that eventually led to more Democrats in Texas; who knew a runoff could create such a storm of change?. Fact: Did you know that losing a Texas runoff is kind of like losing a game of rock-paper-scissors? Someone's always surprised!.
- Headline: Joseph Quinlan, 71, Is Dead; Sought Daughter's Right to Die. Impact: Joseph Quinlan's advocacy for the right to die sparked conversations that ripple through society, ultimately leading to a cultural shift in how we view end-of-life care. A game changer!. Fact: Fun fact: Joseph's fight helped pave the way for difficult conversations about autonomy—because nothing says 'I care' quite like a family debate over your life choices..
- Headline: Suzanne Railey, 85, Who Gave Black-Tie Parties for Christie's. Impact: Suzanne Railey's passing meant the world lost one less person to throw a lavish party, effectively raising the bar for future events—who needs a reason to celebrate now?. Fact: Did you know that if you throw a black-tie party and no one shows up, it turns out you just had a regular dinner?.
- Headline: Hang 10, Pay $475. Impact: This fine for surfing in hurricane waves instilled a healthy fear of nature's wrath among local thrill-seekers, putting a damper on their 'extreme' lifestyle choices.. Fact: Did you know that for $475, you could buy a whole new surfboard instead of experiencing the wrath of a municipal judge?.
- Headline: Drug May Avert Cerebral Palsy in Tiny Infants. Impact: This discovery was like a medical miracle that could alter the future of neonatal care, preventing generations of cerebral palsy—and potentially leading to a world with fewer awkward small talk moments.. Fact: Did you know that magnesium sulfate is not just a lifesaver for babies, but also a great conversation starter at boring dinner parties?.
Wall Street Time Machine
MSFT
Microsoft
Microsoft - If you invested $1,000 in 1996, it would be worth $141,245 today (141.2x return)
AAPL
Apple
Apple - If you invested $1,000 in 1996, it would be worth $1,130,051 today (1130.1x return)