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 December 30, 1999
Full News Archive
- Headline: Indian Airlines Jet Hijacking Update. Impact: The hijacking incident led to heightened security protocols worldwide, which eventually resulted in the development of those delightful full-body scanners we all love at airports. So, thanks to these hijackers, we can now be patted down by strangers while traveling.. Fact: Did you know that as a result of this event, the world's fear of flying increased so much that people started driving more? Because nothing says 'safety' like risking your life on a highway..
- Headline: Giuliani's Chancellor Search Strategy Revealed. Impact: Giuliani's balancing act on this education issue led to a generation of students who learned more about political maneuvering than actual subjects. Little did they know, their future would be spent debating if pineapple belongs on pizza.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing harder than balancing a budget is balancing a politician's ego? Spoiler alert: both usually end up falling over..
- Headline: Putting a Room of One's Own in Orbit. Impact: The creation of private crew quarters in orbit not only paved the way for astronauts to enjoy a bit of privacy but also inspired an entire industry of luxury space hotels for future billionaires. Who knew space could also be a good place for overpriced champagne?. Fact: Did you know that NASA's architects were probably just trying to make sure astronauts didn't have to share a bathroom in zero gravity? Talk about a cosmic disaster!.
- Headline: THE MARKETS: Market Place; Competitors Don't Seem to Hurt Schwab. Impact: Schwab's rise amidst competition signaled the dawn of the online trading revolution. This event was a butterfly flapping its wings that eventually led to day traders thinking they could outsmart the stock market while still managing to lose their shirts.. Fact: Did you know that this competition made Schwab so successful that they could afford to fund a reality show called 'Survivor: Stock Market Edition'? Spoiler: no one survives..
Wall Street Time Machine
AAPL
Apple
Apple - If you invested $1,000 in 1999, it would be worth $880,068 today (880.1x return)