Nixon bans cigarette ads despite lobbying from Joe Camel and Marlboro Man

My April Fool's Day "Global Economic Meltdown"

Twisted History: April 1, 2025

It’s April 1 so … 
This just in: Global Economic Meltdown

Broadcasting from the near future, Triple Action News anchorman Reid Page delivers some geopolitical wordplay about how income inequality will affect the global economy. 

On this day in 1970, President Nixon signed a measure banning cigarette advertising on radio and TV, despite intense lobbying pressure by Joe Camel and the Marlboro Man. (Videos: Granny and Jed Clampett for Winston, Doctors for Camels, and Ol’ Blue Eyes for Ol’ Black Lung - Chesterfield)

On this day in 1976, college dropouts Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak founded Apple Computer, Inc. along with their secret silent partner, Granny Smith. 

On this day in 1924, Adolf Hitler was convicted of treason and sentenced to prison for his role in the Beer Hall Putsch coup attempt. He called the charges against him a “witch hunt” and “fake news.” The trial boosted his support among the Nazis and paved his way to become dictator in 1934. Uh-oh.

On this day in 1789, Frederick Muhlenberg of Pennsylvania was elected the first Speaker of the brand-new House of Representatives, an important and esteemed position until 2023 when Republicans refashioned the role as Sucker of the House. 

Today's Birthdays:

Ali MacGraw, 86: actress, received a 1970 Oscar nomination for “Love Story,” shortly after filming the little-known Led Zeppelin rock-u-drama “Whole Lotta Love Story.”

Debbie Reynolds (1932-2016): Oscar-nominated actress, the 1952 environmental horror musical "Singin' in the Acid Rain."

William Manchester (1922-2004): author, famous for his epic biographies of such notable statesmen as Prime Minister Churchill, President Kennedy, General McArthur and Captain Kangaroo. (Video: Captain Kangaroo deals with anti-vaxxer Mr. Moose)