APRIL 26, 1932

Full News Archive

• Headline: Tragic Auto Crash Claims Life in Jersey. Impact: This tragic event led to stricter traffic laws in New Jersey, which in turn inspired a series of cartoonish public service announcements featuring anthropomorphic cars that would later become a cultural phenomenon. Who knew a fender bender could lead to such adoration for talking vehicles?. Fact: In 1920, the average car speed was about 10 mph. So, no, you wouldn't be late for work unless you really tried..
• Headline: British Attache's Arrival in D.C.. Impact: The arrival of the British attaché in the U.S. sparked a diplomatic rivalry that led to the first-ever British-American bake-off, where scones faced off against brownies. The world is still reeling from the aftermath of that sugar-laden showdown.. Fact: The phrase 'keep calm and carry on' was actually a failed slogan for British diplomats trying to navigate awkward tea parties..
• Headline: Wickersham Commission’s Dry Proposals in 1932. Impact: This poll indicated a shift in public sentiment regarding Prohibition, which ultimately led to speakeasies being glorified in movies and a whole lot of jazz music. Thanks, Wickersham Aides, for making illegal nightlife fashionable!. Fact: Prohibition led to the invention of the cocktail, which might explain why your grandpa's old-fashioned tastes like regret and rebellion..
• Headline: MAJ. JOHN S. COHEN APPOINTED SENATOR; Atlanta Editor to Fill Harris's Place Until November, When Cov. Russell Will Seek Office. RECEIVES THE NEWS HERE ' A Compliment to the Press,' He Says Before Leaving for South to Get Credentials.. Impact: Maj. John S. Cohen's appointment as senator opened the floodgates for more editors to enter politics, resulting in a bizarre trend where newspaper columns became campaign platforms. Now we have influencers instead of leaders. Bravo!. Fact: Before becoming a senator, Cohen was an editor who probably spent more time correcting typos than making laws. Some things never change..
• Headline: CHICAGO EX-OFFICIALS TRIED IN WEIGHT FRAUD; Two Members of the Thompson Regime Are Taken to Court Ten Months After Their Indictment.. Impact: The weight fraud trial exposed deep-seated corruption in Chicago, setting a precedent that would inspire future scandals, including the infamous 'Hot Dog Weight Conspiracy' of the late 1950s. A heavy price to pay for a light lunch!. Fact: Chicago has a long history of shady dealings; just ask Al Capone, who was probably more honest than your average fast food joint..
• Headline: FLIERS ARE CLEARED IN MIAMI MYSTERY; Prosecutor Doubts Grand Jury Action Affecting Mrs. Keith-Miller and Capt. Lancaster. CLARKE INQUEST DELAYED Investigations Into Killing of Fiance of Australian Aviatrix Fail to Make Headway.. Impact: Clearing the fliers in Miami led to a resurgence in the popularity of aviation and questionable love stories, which would later inspire a series of cheesy romance novels, some of which remain on the best-seller list today. Thanks for the inspiration, Miami!. Fact: In the 1920s, flying was so new that many people thought pilots were just glorified bus drivers with better hats..
• Headline: RUNAWAY GIRL ARRESTED.; Left Swampscott, Mass., With Married Man and Father's $3,000.. Impact: The runaway girl incident inadvertently sparked a national conversation about parental control and teenage rebellion, leading to a slew of 'runaway' movies in the ‘80s, solidifying the stereotype of the rebellious teen for decades.. Fact: In the '20s, running away with a married man was considered scandalous; now it's just a Tuesday in a reality show..
• Headline: QUITS WORK FOR WET FIGHT; F.G. Clark, Crusaders Head, Gives Up Business Connections.. Impact: Clark's decision to quit his job to fight prohibition inspired a wave of activists to leave their mundane office jobs for the more exciting world of political protests, leading to the formation of countless social movements. Who knew rebellion could be so liberating?. Fact: Fighting for your rights is a lot more fun when you can do it without a 9-to-5 job weighing you down..
• Headline: CONNECTICUT'S AID HAILED BY SMITH; He Acknowledges Heartening News and Gets Prediction of 100% Support There. BAY STATE VOTES TODAY Ex-Governor Assured of Solid Delegation and Even Break in Pennsylvania.. Impact: Smith's gratitude for Connecticut's support led to a bizarre string of political endorsements based solely on the quality of state pie recipes. Yes, folks, democracy has a sweet tooth.. Fact: Politics and dessert have always gone hand in hand; just look at the 'Cakewalk' dance that was a big hit in the 19th century!.
• Headline: 1,600 Barbers Strike in Dispute Over Wages; Many Shops Now Paying Only Commissions. Impact: The barbers' strike over wages inspired a nationwide movement for fair pay, which ultimately led to a revolution in the beauty industry. Now, barbers are not just cutting hair; they're cutting through the patriarchy!. Fact: Strikes are often seen as a last resort, but honestly, have you ever tried to negotiate with a barber about the price of a haircut? Good luck with that!.