If Fads Lived Up To The Hype!!!

Ok, just for balance

2004- Godzilla Final Wars, the 50th anniversary film, makes it's hit debut, taking in over $500 million and receives rave reviews. The official director is listed as "Alan Smithee" though "some" believe it may have been...
 
Alright, here are some cars that were popular in the ATL. Get ready for the following bad cars:

* The 1974 Ford Mustang makes its hit debut in 1973...
* The 1975 Alfa Romeo Alfetta makes its hit debut, highlighting the Italian car industry, in 1974...
* The 1975 AMC Pacer makes its hit debut as an economy car with its hit debut in 1974....
* The 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Diesel makes its hit debut in 1978....
* The 1982 Cadillac Cimarron makes its hit debut in 1981...
* The 1982 Aston Martin Lagonda highlights high-tech advances, with its hit debut in 1981...
* The 1987 Yugo makes its hit debut, highlighting Eastern European cars as a major trade item in 1986...
* The 1996 Acura SLX, blending the mini-van and the SUV for families starting in 1995...
* The 2001 Pontiac Aztek makes its hit debut in 2000...
* The 2003 Saturn Ion makes its hit debut in 2002...
 
Here are some PODs to show that boycotts can have some weird effects:

* Grape boycott of the military regime Augusto Pinochet, causes the collapse of the Chilean government in 1974...
* New Zealand is barred from the Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, due to its performance in South Africa in 1976....
* Arab League nations launch a massive economic embargo against Israel, pressuring the government to discuss Palestinian statehood in 1977...
* Boycott of the S-Bahn trains leads directly to its shutdown, amidst great protest in West Berlin in 1980....
* Soviet Union and the People's Republic of China boycott the Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea in solidarity with North Korea in 1988...
* Government of Thailand collapses due to international boycotts over its policies on child prostution in 1995...
* Disney Corporation bans LGBT references from its films and products after presure from Southern Baptist Convention in 1997...
* Sudanese Civil War ends, Darfur gains independence, after Samira Ahmed leads a Lysistrata "sex boycott" in 2002...
* Patriotic Americans Boycotting Anti-American Hollywood (a.k.a. PABAAH) launches the "Fire Hollywood" campaign, boycotting films with perceived anti-American ideas or themes; Calls for U.S. military action in the Middle East are cancelled after Lysistrata "sex boycotts" in 2003...
* Calls for U.S. military action in the Middle East are cancelled after Lysistrata "sex boycotts" in 2005...
* Great American Boycott; Illegal immigrants paralyze the economy by launching a national work stoppage in 2006...
* Philadelphia Riots; Race riots erupt between the Asian-American and African-American communities in Philadelphia, PA in 2009....
 
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Hey we can have someone with Max Headroom how than new coke is popular here? maybe some like keep running and them figthing against the Vocaloids(another 'fad')
 
Hey we can have someone with Max Headroom how than new coke is popular here? maybe some like keep running and them figthing against the Vocaloids(another 'fad')

Here are the desired PODs:

* Max Headroom (played by actor Matt Frewer) becomes the official spokesperson for New Coke with a 5-year contract in 1987....

* Coca-Cola Corporation revives the Max Headroom television ad campaign with the rise of Vocaloids in 2004....
 
Here are some PODs to show that even Broadway has its failed fads:

* Frankenstein based on the Mary Shelley novel, makes its hit Broadway debut in 1981...
* Merrily We Roll Along by Stephen Sondheim, makes its hit Broadway debut in 1981...
* The Moose Murders by Eugene O'Neill makes its hit Broadway debut in 1983...
* Carrie: The Musical based on the novel by Stephen King, makes its hit Broadway debut in 1988...
* Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark written by Bono, makes its hit Broadway debut in 2010...
* High written by Matthew Lombardo, starring Kathleen Turner makes its hit Broadway debut in 2011....
 
Here are some PODs to show that some boycott/censorship fads would have altered music very quickly:

* Country singer Loretta Lynn's single "The Pill" is banned due to its references to birth control due to Christian conservatives in 1975...
* Singer Fela Kuti overthrows the military government in Lagos, Nigeria through non-violent protest songs in 1977...
* American singer Marianne Faithfull is placedd under arrest in Sydney, Australia due to the "graphic nature" of the lyrics of her songs in 1979....
* Australian singer Olivia Newton John's single "Physical" is banned in the U.S. due to pressure from Mormon groups; British officials arrest Heaven 17 for their single "Fascist Groove Thang" in 1981....
* British officials ban the single "Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood, sparking riots at many nightclubs in 1984....
* Tipper Gore, wife of Vice-President Al Gore, leads a national campaign calling for music censorship in 1985...
* British singer George Michael is placed under arrest for "indecency" and "inappropriate music" in 1987....
* American singer Neil Young is banned from performing in Europe by the European Economic Community in 1988....
* "F*** the Police" rap single by N.W.A. is banned after ressure from police groups nationwide; "Me So Horny" by 2 Live Crew is banned after pressure from women's rights groups; Heavy metal group Judas Priest is placed under arrest after hidden messages are found on its "Stained Class" single in 1990...
* Riots erupt in major cities throughout Egypt after local officials ban all forms of Western music, especially rock and roll, heavy metal and rap music in 1996...
* Singer Janet Jackson is placed under arrest in Singapore due to the "graphic nature" of her "Velvet Rope" album in 1997...
* Singer Gerri Halliwell of the Spice Girls is placed under arrest in Manila, Philippines for advocating for birth control in 1999...
* Police raid a concert of the Backstreet Boys in Austin, TX for "inappropriate music and dancing" in 2000...
* Singer Marilyn Manson and music group Dixie Chicks are placed under arrest after attacking music censorship laws in 2003...
 
Here are a few more music PODs:

* Sinead O'Connor is banned from performances throughout Europe, after tearing up a picture of the Pope on television in 1990...
* Illegal rap album "Bodycount" by Ice-T and Ice-Cube becomes a major underground bestseller in 1993....
* Sheryl Crow is banned from performance after the release of her single "Love Is A Good Thing", after complaints by gun rights advocates about its content on gun violence; Heavy metal group Cannibal Corpse is placed under arrest on obscenity charges in Berlin, Germany in 1996...
* Lip-synching and kareoke is banned by The Vietnamese government, sparking riots in major cities across the country in 2000...
 
Here are some PODs for some failed fads and over-hyped events:

* Progressive Conservative MP Flora I. MacDonald is elected Prime Minister of Canada amidst great controversy in 1976....
* Scientists with the Cryonics Society of California (CSC) announce the succesful cryogenic transport and revival of a patient in Chatsworth, California in 1979...
* Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley (D-CA) is elected governor of California, amidst anti-Anderson sentiment, becoming the state's first African-American governor in 1982....
* Major celebrations across the Western Hemisphere regarding the 500th anniversary of the landing of Christopher Colombus; Giant sundial is constructed in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic in honor of the landing in 1992...
* MP Neil Kinnock is elected British Prime Minister, leading the Labor Party into power in parliamentary elections in 1992....
 
Here are some random PODs to show how the Internet died before it fully blossomed:

* Comedian George Carlin is placed under arrest in Los Angeles, California after revealing "seven dirty words" which can't be said on television in 1973...
* American television shows are banned from Saudi Arabia, citing The Muppet Show and the character of Miss Piggy in 1979....
* Heavy metal musician Ozzy Osborne is arrested in New York City, New York after he is blamed for teen suicides in 1987...
* President Ross Perot signs the MPAA-backed Copyright Protection Act, banning the "copying of copyrighted materials for distribution" in 1995....
* President Ross Perot signs the Communications Decency Act, banning "electronic pornography" in Washington D.C. in 1996....
* Singer Cher is placed under arrest on obscenity charges in Los Angeles, California amidst great controversy in 2002...
* Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie are placed under arrest for obscenity charges in Los Angeles, California sparking national debate in 2003....
* Singers Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake are placed under arrest on obscenity charges after Timberlake exposes the breasts of Janet Jackson on national television in 2004...
* Radio personality Howard Stern is placed under arrest for obscenity charges in New York City, New York in 2006....
 
Here are some PODs for some failed fads and over-hyped events:

* Progressive Conservative MP Flora I. MacDonald is elected Prime Minister of Canada amidst great controversy in 1976....
* Scientists with the Cryonics Society of California (CSC) announce the succesful cryogenic transport and revival of a patient in Chatsworth, California in 1979...
* Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley (D-CA) is elected governor of California, amidst anti-Anderson sentiment, becoming the state's first African-American governor in 1982....
* Major celebrations across the Western Hemisphere regarding the 500th anniversary of the landing of Christopher Colombus; Giant sundial is constructed in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic in honor of the landing in 1992...
* MP Neil Kinnock is elected British Prime Minister, leading the Labor Party into power in parliamentary elections in 1992....


What about William Hague being elected in 1997, or Michael Portillo continuing his rise to prominence?
 
What about William Hague being elected in 1997, or Michael Portillo continuing his rise to prominence?

I can certainly dig it! Here are the PODs:

* MP William Hague is elected Prime Minister after he leads the Tory Party to electoral victory in parliamentary elections in 1995....
* MP Michael Portillo is elected Prime Minister after Prime Minister William Hague leaves office in 2001...

For some weirdness, check out:

* Saturday Night Live (NBC-TV) is cancelled due to protests by the American Family Association (AFA), amidst accusations of obscenity in 1989....
* NYPD Blue (ABC-TV) is cancelled due to protests by the American Family Association (AFA) amidst accusations of obscenity in 1994...
* Radio personality Howard Stern is elected governor of New York under a libertarian platform, amidst anti-Perot sentiment in 1994...
* Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) announce their surrender to government forcs after a nationwide "sex strike" against the leftist cocaine cartel is announced in Bogota, Colombia in 1997...
* Government of President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga collapses amidst a "sex strike" conducted throughout Kenya in 2009...
* Fighting is halted in Mindinao, Philippines between Muslim and government forces after local women launch a "sex strike" in 2011...
* Archie Comics files for bankruptcy amidst protests by the American Family Association (AFA) over charges of obscenity over its portrayal of same-sex marriage in 2012...
 
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Here some PODs based on failed sports comebacks:

* Heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali makes his comeback defeating Larry Holmes in the ring in 1978...
* Heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali defeats Trevor Berbick in the ring, defending his heavyweight title in 1979...
* Tennis player Martina Narvitilova makes her professional tennis comeback winning the Wimbleon Tournament in 1990...
* Tennis player Bjorn Borg stuns the professional tennis world with his return winning the Wimbledon Tournament in 1991...
* Comeback player Rugby player Jonah Lomu leads the All-Blacks, winning the Rugby World Cup in 2007...
* Professional bicyclist Lance Armstrong wins the Tour de France in Paris, sealing his comeback; Brett Favre leads the New York Jets to the Super Bowl in 2008...
 
Here are some PODs for fads and products that failed... I've thrown in some fast food items that will be very familiar:

* Jack in the Box introduces "Frings" (onion/potato fries) becoming popular snack items nationwide in 1979....
* Toy company Matel enters into the PC market with the creation of the "Aquarius" line for children; Burger King introduces the Pita Salad as a means to promote better health in 1983...
* Mississippi Aerial River Transport (MART) becomes a opular public transportation system for New Orleans residents in 1984...
* McDonald's introduces the McRib sandwhich amidst great fanfare and popularity in 1989...
* American professional football becomes popular across the glone with the creation of European teams including the London Monarchs, Barcelona Dragons, and the Frankfurt Galaxy in 1990...
* Burger King introduces the Veggie Burger, in an effort to promote healthier diets for consumers in 2002....
* Gods & Generals based on the novel by Jeffrey Shaara, starring Robert Duvall and Jeff Daniels makes its hit film debut in 2003...
 
Here are a few more PODs, including movie franchises that never got off the ground:

* Barb Wire starring Pamela Anderson, makes its hit debut, launching a film fanchise in 1996...
* Mystery Men starring Ben Stiller, Janeane Garofolo, and Greg Kinnear, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise in 1999...
* Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events starring Jim Carrey, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise in 2004...
* Eragon based on the novels by Christopher Paolini makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise in 2006...
* The Golden Compass based on the novels by Philip Pullman, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise in 2007...
* The Spirit starring Scarlett Johansen and Samuel L. Jackson, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise; The Spiderwick Chronicles basedon the children's novels, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise in 2008...
* Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time starring Jake Gyllenhaal, directed by Jery Bruckheimer, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise; Jonah Hex starring Josh Brolin and Megan Fox, makes its hit debut , launching a film franchise in 2010...
 
Not sure if these have been mentioned but here we go:

Rainbow parties, Hitler Diaries, Y2K, back-masking, Orson Welles' Batman, sewer gators, the Cardiff giant, crop circles, Anastasia surviving, Paul is dead, Thatcher-gate, Yellow cake forgery, Bush's national guard records, Christopher Walken/ Stephen Colbert for President....ah do any of these count?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_hoaxes
 
Not sure if these have been mentioned but here we go:

Rainbow parties, Hitler Diaries, Y2K, back-masking, Orson Welles' Batman, sewer gators, the Cardiff giant, crop circles, Anastasia surviving, Paul is dead, Thatcher-gate, Yellow cake forgery, Bush's national guard records, Christopher Walken/ Stephen Colbert for President....ah do any of these count?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_hoaxes

Thank you!!

We can't do the Paul is Dead, Cardiff Giant, Anastasia surviving ,et al. due to the fact that they are based on hoaxes that took place prior to 1973....

We already have PODs for Y2K,Stephen Colbert in 2008, and back-masking within the ATL.....

Well, lets see what I can put together from the following PODs:

* Sewer Gators; New York Public Works employees uncover a population of alligators living in the sewer systems of New York City, New York in 1975...
* British scientistsDoug Bower and Dave Chorley expose "crop circles" as proof of extraterrestrial life in London, England in 1978...
* Thatcher-gate; British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and U.S. President John Anderson are implicated in a lot to instigate a nuclear conflict in Europe in an effort to demonstrate American resolve against the Soviets in 1982....
* The private diaries of Adolph Hitler are uncovered in West Berlin, claiming that Rudolf Hess met with British fascists in an effort to overthrow Churchill and establish a peace agreement, creating tensions within NATO in 1983...
* Sewer Gators; New York population of alligators explodes as alligators are seen throughout Central Park in 2001....
* Iraqi government officials are exposed purchasing yellow cake uranium from the government of Niger, sparking tensions throughout the Middle East in 2002...
* "Rainbow Parties", orgies primarily identified by teenagers and large numbers of partners, becomes popular after media exposure by Oprah Winfrey, sparking concern with public health officials in 2003...
* Writer Mark Millar uncovers a script for The Batman written by Orson Welles in Hollywood, California in 2003...
* Republican presidential candidate governor George W. Bush is exposed for going AWOL from the National Guard in 1972 and 1973 by Colonel Jerry Killian, (ret.) U.S. Army in 2004....
* Actor Christopher Walken announces his exploratory committee for an independent bid for the presidency, during a speech in New York City, New York in 2006...
 
Here is a rough outline for the ATL:

1973: Kouhoutek comet dazzles audiences around the world. UFOs are condemned as "transports to hell" and extraterrestrials are seen as "hellspawn" by Christian conseratives. Great Britain anounces its refusal to join into the European Economic Community (EEC) despite heavy political pressure. The 1974 Ford Mustang makes its hit debut. Comedian George Carlin is placed under arrest in Los Angeles, California after revealing "seven dirty words" which can't be said on television.

1974: Benjamin Creme proclaims the arrival of the messiah "Maitreya" in London, England, sparking religious unrest. Grape boycott of the military regime Augusto Pinochet, causes the collapse of the Chilean government. The 1975 Alfa Romeo Alfetta makes its hit debut, highlighting the Italian car industry.The 1975 AMC Pacer makes its hit debut as an economy car with its hit debut.

1975: U.S. Metric-system conversion campaign launched in Washington D.C. Mood rings become popular. Share International, based in London, England, begins distributing the spiritual mesages of "Maitreya" worldwide. Famine and drought devastates India, sparking a massive international refugee crisis. Christian conservatives in the United States launch a campaign against the United States and "one-world government". Christian conservatives launch a campaign against television broadcasts starting. U.S. State Department warns of Communist-backed terrorism throughout Asia and Africa, targetting primarily Americans. Country singer Loretta Lynn's single "The Pill" is banned due to its references to birth control due to Christian conservatives. Sewer Gators; New York Public Works employees uncover a population of alligators living in the sewer systems of New York City, New York.

1976: Human Cloning is discovered, sparking massive flux in ethical debates worldwide. New Zealand is barred from the Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, due to its performance in South Africa. "Stretch Armstrong" dolls become popular with children. "Maharishi Effect" proven; Maharishi Mahesh Yogi proves scientifically that mass meditation/prayer can cause massive reductions in crime and violent behavior. Christian conservatives launch a campaign against astrology, demanding the removal of horoscope columns in newspapers. Progressive Conservative MP Flora I. MacDonald is elected Prime Minister of Canada amidst great controversy.

1976-1979: Swine Flu Pandemic grips United States, Russia, China. Cold War finally ends as USSR and PRC regimes implode.

1977: Citizen's Band (CB) radio becomes a popular trend. Marijuana is legalized within the United States. Arab League nations launch a massive economic embargo against Israel, pressuring the government to discuss Palestinian statehood. Singer Fela Kuti overthrows the military government in Lagos, Nigeria through non-violent protest songs.

1977-1978: Fire ant scares begin throughout the American Southwest

1978: ERA (Equal Rights Amendment) ratified. Killer bee scares begin throughout the American Southeast. Star Wars: Holiday Special (CBS-TV) makes its hit debut. Christian conservatives launch a campaign against Freemasons as a "threat to Christianity". Pope John Paul II calls for greater European political unity, sparking tensions in Central and Eastern Europe. Heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali makes his comeback defeating Larry Holmes in the ring. British scientists Doug Bower and Dave Chorley expose "crop circles" as proof of extraterrestrial life in London, England. The 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Diesel makes its hit debut.

1979: Susan B. Anthony dollar coins become the official currency (U.S.). Monty Python's The Life of Bryan is banned after massive protest by Christian fundamentalists nationwide. Scotland secedes from Great Britain sparking tensions throughout Western Europe and the NATO alliance. United States loses permanent control of the Panama Canal, amidst great political controversy. Shah of Iran orders the formation of a covert nuclear weapons program, raising tensions within the Middle East. American singer Marianne Faithfull is placedd under arrest in Sydney, Australia due to the "graphic nature" of the lyrics of her songs. Scientists with the Cryonics Society of California (CSC) announce the succesful cryogenic transport and revival of a patient in Chatsworth, California. Heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali defeats Trevor Berbick in the ring, defending his heavyweight title. American television shows are banned from Saudi Arabia, citing The Muppet Show and the character of Miss Piggy. Jack in the Box introduces "Frings" (onion/potato fries) becoming popular snack items nationwide.

1980: Betamax dominates the market. John Anderson elected President. Can't Stop the Music starring the Village People and Bruce Jenner, makes its hit film debut. Lyndon LaRouche (D-NY) wins the Democratic Party presidential nomination amidst great controversy. Boycott of the S-Bahn trains leads directly to its shutdown, amidst great protest in West Berlin. WHO/CDC officials report c. 150 million deaths annually due to mass starvation, drought and famine, the average lifespan falls to 42 years of age worldwide, according to the United Nations. "Tracksuits" (a.k.a. "Shell Suits") become popular worldwide, especially in Great Britain and the United States.

1981: Australian singer Olivia Newton John's single "Physical" is banned in the U.S. due to pressure from Mormon groups; British officials arrest Heaven 17 for their single "Fascist Groove Thang". La Toya Jackson makes her hit musical debut with her single "If You Feel The Funk". Frankenstein based on the Mary Shelley novel, makes its hit Broadway debut. Merrily We Roll Along by Stephen Sondheim, makes its hit Broadway debut. The 1982 Cadillac Cimarron makes its hit debut. The 1982 Aston Martin Lagonda highlights high-tech advances, with its hit debut.

1982: Inchon directed by Mitsuhara Ishi, starring Laurence Olivier as Douglas Macarthur. "Deely Bobbers" (a.k.a. Martian antennae) become popular. Christian fundamentalists led by Robert Byrd (D-WV) win passage of the School Prayer Amendment (U.S.), allowing school prayer in public schools. Earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis occur across the globe due to the alignment of planets, called "the Jupiter Effect". Argentinean forces defeat British naval forces for the Falkland Islands. Thatcher-gate; British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and U.S. President John Anderson are implicated in a lot to instigate a nuclear conflict in Europe in an effort to demonstrate American resolve against the Soviets. Labor MP Tony Benn is elected Prime Minister after a "no-confidence" vote of PM Margaret Thatcher. Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley (D-CA) is elected governor of California, amidst anti-Anderson sentiment, becoming the state's first African-American governor.

1983: Emergence of Satanic cults across America; Heavy metal music is reported to contain "subliminal messages" regarding suicide. Latin American pop music becomes a major world craze, starting with Menudo. Cabbage Patch Kids Snacktime Dolls become popular. E.T., the Extraterrestrial (Atari) video game makes its hit debut, becoming a major bestseller. New Age "Past-Life Regression" becomes popular, after being introduced by actress Shirley Maclaine. The private diaries of Adolph Hitler are uncovered in West Berlin, claiming that Rudolf Hess met with British fascists in an effort to overthrow Churchill and establish a peace agreement, creating tensions within NATO. Soviet military forces proclaim victory in Afghanistan. Doctor Detroit starring Dan Ackroyd and Howard Hesseman, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. The Moose Murders by Eugene O'Neill makes its hit Broadway debut. Toy company Matel enters into the PC market with the creation of the "Aquarius" line for children; Burger King introduces the Pita Salad as a means to promote better health.

1984: Mirage comics makes its hit debut. Gary Hart elected President. Senator and former astronaut John Glenn runs for the Democratic Party nomination. La Toya Jackson debuts her hit music single "Heart Don't Lie" amidst great competition. British officials ban the single "Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood, sparking riots at many nightclubs. Iranian government officials announce the development of a nuclear weapons technology in Tehran, sparking regional tensions. The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the Eighth Dimension starring Peter Weller and Jeff Goldblum, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. Mississippi Aerial River Transport (MART) becomes a popular public transportation system for New Orleans residents.

1985: New Coke makes its debut; old Coke formula re-christened "Classic Coke." Balanced Budget Amendment ratified to the U.S. Constitution. Air pollution has reduced the amount of sunlight reaching the surface of the planet by 50% according to health officials. Tipper Gore, wife of Vice-President Al Gore, leads a national campaign calling for music censorship. Soviet-backed military forces threaten to attack Israel, raising tensions throughout the Middle East.

1986: Movement for the "English-only" Amendment (U.S.) begins. Halley's Comet inspires "comet parties" across the globe. Americans connect in a human chain from New York City, New York to Los Angeles, California in "Hands Across America". The 1987 Yugo makes its hit debut, highlighting Eastern European cars as a major trade item.

1987: Amerika (ABC-TV) television mini-series about Soviet occupation of the United States actually becomes a major hit. British singer George Michael is placed under arrest for "indecency" and "inappropriate music". Heavy metal musician Ozzy Osborne is arrested in New York City, New York after he is blamed for teen suicides. Max Headroom (played by actor Matt Frewer) becomes the official spokesperson for New Coke with a 5-year contract. "Pogoball", along with the Segway (2001), one of the biggest divergences in transportation. Civl unrest and violence erupt in Egypt due to oil shortages. Former porn actress Anna Ilona Staller is elected Prime Minister of Italy amidst great controversy. Oceanographers uncover a growing "dead zone" caused by deadly algae blooms within the Gulf of Mexico.

1988: Gary Hart re-elected President. "One Australia" policy announced by PM John Howard, calling for a ban on Asian immigrants. Soviet Union and the People's Republic of China boycott the Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea in solidarity with North Korea. American singer Neil Young is banned from performing in Europe by the European Economic Community. RJR Reynolds introduces "Smokeless Cigarettes". The Last Temptation of Christ directed by Martin Scorsese is banned due to massive protests by Christian fundamentalists. Game show personality Vanna White makes her hit film debut with Goddess of Love, becoming a major celebrity. Carrie: The Musical based on the novel by Stephen King, makes its hit Broadway debut. "Harmonic Convergence" of planets is celebrated across the globe as the "mankind's shift from warlike to peaceful". Senator Dan Quayle (R-IN) wins the Republican Party nomination in an effort to appeal to youth.

1989: Killer Bee infestations become more pronounced; Power-Glove becomes top selling item. Shintaro Ishihara is elected Prime Minister citing an ultra-nationalist platform for Japan. Brian "The Boz" Bosworth leads the Seattle Seahawks to the Super Bowl, amidst controversy for "trash-talking" against the Denver Broncos. Saturday Night Live (NBC-TV) is cancelled due to protests by the American Family Association (AFA), amidst accusations of obscenity. McDonald's introduces the McRib sandwhich amidst great fanfare and popularity.

1990: "Cold Fusion" being confirmed by Pons/ Fleischmann in Salt Lake City, Utah. Vanilla Ice introduces rap music to the mainstream. Lambada Brazilian dance becomes popular worldwide. Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba wins the right of international intervention for Japanese military forces. Famine has spread to all of India, Pakistan, Middle East, and all of Africa, despite international humanitarian aid efforts. Dick Tracy starring Warren Beatty, makes its hit debut, launching rides at Disneyland parks and launching a film franchise. "F*** the Police" rap single by N.W.A. is banned after ressure from police groups nationwide; "Me So Horny" by 2 Live Crew is banned after pressure from women's rights groups; Heavy metal group Judas Priest is placed under arrest after hidden messages are found on its "Stained Class" single. Sinead O'Connor is banned from performances throughout Europe, after tearing up a picture of the Pope on television. Tennis player Martina Narvitilova makes her professional tennis comeback winning the Wimbleon Tournament. American professional football becomes popular across the glone with the creation of European teams including the London Monarchs, Barcelona Dragons, and the Frankfurt Galaxy. Author Mario Vargas Llosa is elected in presidential elections on a socialist platform, sparking tensions with the United States.

1991: "Flag-Burning" Amendment to the U.S. Constittution. U.S. POWs/MIAs are discovered in Vietnam and Laos. Indonesia suffers civil unrest and violence amidst reports of oil shortages in Indonesia, sparkng tensions throughout SE Asia. Tennis player Bjorn Borg stuns the professional tennis world with his return winning the Wimbledon Tournament. The Rocketeer starring Jennifer Connelly, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise.

1992: Crystal Pepsi makes its debut, soon devouring up more of the market share. Ross Perot elected President. Valiant and Image Comics make their hit debuts amidst a booming independent comics industry. Japanese-led Asian Pacific Economic Community (APEC) and German-led European Union (EU) launch an "economic cold war" against the United States. Canadian magician Doug Henning establishes "Maharishi Veda Land" amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Personal Digital Assistants (PDA) become a major bestseller and are seen as a major technological leap. Israeli officials led by Benjamin Netanyahu and Shimon Peres report that Iran has begun production of nuclear weapons during a press conference in Tel Aviv. Major celebrations across the Western Hemisphere regarding the 500th anniversary of the landing of Christopher Colombus; Giant sundial is constructed in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic in honor of the landing. MP Neil Kinnock is elected British Prime Minister, leading the Labor Party into power in parliamentary elections.

1993: The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield sparks a religious renaissance, as people begin to create a "more spiritual society". Illegal rap album "Bodycount" by Ice-T and Ice-Cube becomes a major underground bestseller. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi proves scientifically that mass meditation/prayer can effectively reduce violence in conflict regions.

1993-1994: Blind Melon makes their hit debut, signaling explosion of "grunge" genre. Internet dead as AOL network spreads.

1994: Vladimir Zhrinovsky, Russian ultra-nationalist comes to power in Moscow. Quebec independence. David Caruso becomes a movie star. The Shadow starring Alec Baldwin and Penelope Ann Miller, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. "English-only" Amendment is established (U.S.). Pro-football/baseball player Bo Jackson dazzles the sports world. Heavy metal music is reported to contain "subliminal messages" leading to a national ban. "Sky Dancers" (Galoob) dolls become popular. Patrick Ewing leads the New York Knicks to the NBA Championship. Second Korean War; Japan and North Korea clash after a naval incident in the Sea of Japan. Actor Rubén Blades is elected President of Panama. Russian-backed Bulgarian forces enter into Macedonia, escalating fighting within the Balkans region. Tensions mount nationwide as severe droughts and famine occur across Australia. NYPD Blue (ABC-TV) is cancelled due to protests by the American Family Association (AFA) amidst accusations of obscenity. Radio personality Howard Stern is elected governor of New York under a libertarian platform, amidst anti-Perot sentiment.

1995: Nintendo VirtuaBoy console makes its hit debut, part of a new wave of VR. Controversy over unauthorized pornographic content spreads - 2nd Sexual Revolution underway. Waterworld makes its hit debut. Actress Elizabeth Berkley, becomes a star after the film Showgirls launches her career. South Africa falls apart due to Afrikanner-led "war for homeland". Government of Thailand collapses due to international boycotts over its policies on child prostution. Michael Jordan leads the Baltimore Orioles to a World Series. Charles Barkley leads the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Championship. Food riots are reported nationwide due to drought in the Midwest; Last portions of rainforest destroyed in Madagascar. 1945 alternate-history novel by Newt Gingrich and William R. Fortschen, becomes a major bestseller. Rush Limbaugh is named Speaker of the House of Representatives in a highly partisan anti-Perot vote. Deepak Chopra establishes "Chopra Center for Well Being" across the globe, starting in Los Angeles, California as "spiritual alignment centers". Pakistan and Russia begin sending scientists to aid Iran's nuclear program, sparking international tensions. President Ross Perot signs the MPAA-backed Copyright Protection Act, banning the "copying of copyrighted materials for distribution". MP William Hague is elected British Prime Minister after he leads the Tory Party to electoral victory in parliamentary elections. The 1996 Acura SLX, blending the mini-van and the SUV for families.

1996: Ross Perot re-elected President. Comics crash averted. Heroes Reborn (1996/1997)- Todd McFarlane and Jim Lee restart the Marvel Universe. The Phantom starring Billy Zane makes its hit film debut, launching a film franchise. Barb Wire starring Pamela Anderson, makes its hit debut, launching a film fanchise. "Macarena" dance craze goes worldwide. Sheryl Crow is banned from performance after the release of her single "Love Is A Good Thing", after complaints by gun rights advocates about its content on gun violence; Heavy metal group Cannibal Corpse is placed under arrest on obscenity charges in Berlin, Germany. Riots erupt in major cities throughout Egypt after local officials ban all forms of Western music, especially rock and roll, heavy metal and rap music. Platte River in Nebraska dries up due to the greenhouse effect; Reports of "black blizzards" of prarie topsoil causing traffic jams, computer and power failures throughout the Midwest. NASCAR legend Richard Petty (R-NC) wins the gubernatorial election in North Carolina. NASA announces the completion of Space Station Freedom at Cape Canaveral, Florida as a major technological achievement. Doctor Who (FOX-TV) starring Eric Roberts as "the Master" makes its hit television debut. President Ross Perot signs the Communications Decency Act, banning "electronic pornography" in Washington D.C. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) wins the Democratic Party presidential nomination based on a populist platform.

1997: Microsoft Web-TV takes off, creating competition for the cable and satellite dish companies. Clonaid is established, providing commercial human clones for infertile and LGBT persons amidst great religious controversy. Major flooding begins to occur in Central Europe along the Elbe and Oder Rivers, sparking a refugee crisis. Action movie star Joseph Estrada is elected in presidential elections in the Philippines on a populist platform. Singer Janet Jackson is placed under arrest in Singapore due to the "graphic nature" of her "Velvet Rope" album. Disney Corporation bans LGBT references from its films and products after pressure from Southern Baptist Convention. Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) announce their surrender to government forcs after a nationwide "sex strike" against the leftist cocaine cartel is announced in Bogota, Colombia.

1998: Dean Devlin/ Roland Emmerich launch the Godzilla film franchise, sparking renewed interest in the genre, "Gojira purists" launch suicide bomb attacks against theaters showing the American version of Godzilla. The Avengers starring Uma Thurman and Ralph Fiennes, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. "WWJD" bracelets (e.g. "What Would Jesus Do") and "Promise Keepers" become popular. Economic collapse of the U.S. dollar against the Japanese yen occurs. Iran begins developing long-rang missiles for its nuclear weapons program against international pressure.

1999: The Phantom Menace makes its hit debut. Wild, Wild West starring Will Smith and Kevin Kline makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. The Mod Squad starring Claire Daines, Giovanni Ribisi and Omar Epps, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. Mystery Men starring Ben Stiller, Janeane Garofolo, and Greg Kinnear, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. Singer Gerri Halliwell of the Spice Girls is placed under arrest in Manila, Philippines for advocating for birth control. Sega Dreamcast solidifies Sega as video game industry leader. Australia becomes a republic after a national referendum. "Amero", North-American currency, is ratified by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, amidst great debate. Great Britain erupts in civil unrest and violence, amidst reports of oil shortages. Dogma directed by Kevin Smith is banned due to massive protests by Christian fundamentalists. Lee Carroll and Jan Tober begin proclaiming children born starting in 1999 as "Indigo Children" (spiritually-enlightened).

2000: Y2K virus signals economic crash. Ralph Nader elected. XFL makes its hit debut. "O-Town" forms signaling pop-punk revival (note: different band than OTL). Battlefield Earth starring John Travolta makes its hit film debut, amidst concern of Scientologists. Lip-synching and kareoke is banned by The Vietnamese government, sparking riots in major cities across the country. Oman reports oil shortages, sparking regional and economic tensions throughout the Middle East. Austerity measures are imposed in Great Britain and the United States in response to oil shortages, offset by cold-fusion technology. General Colin Powell (R-NY) is named the Republican Party presidential nominee. Police raid a concert of the Backstreet Boys in Austin, TX for "inappropriate music and dancing". Controversy erupts when British Prince William announces that he is engaged to American singer Brittney Spears. "Big Mouth Billy Bass", animatronic fish becomes a popular household item and toy. The 2001 Pontiac Aztek makes its hit debut.

2001: India and Pakistan border conflict over Kashmir goes nuclear. U.N. officials report the loss of the last portions of the rainforest worldwide. Segway PT vehicles become popular upon introduction, becoming major bestsellers. Planet of the Apes directed by Tim Burton, starring Mark Wahlberg, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. MP Michael Portillo is elected Prime Minister after Prime Minister William Hague leaves office. Sewer Gators; New York population of alligators explodes as alligators are seen throughout Central Park.

2002: Friendster and Zune make their hit debuts. Vanilla Coke makes its hit debut. "Freedom Fries" make their debut. Anna Kournikova dazzles the tennis world. The Adventures of Pluto Nash starring Eddie Murphy. Chris Webber leads the Sacramento Kings to the NBA Championship. Atkins Diet, consisting of low carbohydrate diets, becomes popular. Singer Cher is placed under arrest on obscenity charges in Los Angeles, California amidst great controversy. Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) becomes popular nationwide. Jean-Marie Le Pen elected President of France, sparking riots. Plug and Play Videogames grow in popularity. Pepsi Blue is released. Burger King introduces the Veggie Burger, in an effort to promote healthier diets for consumers. Iraqi government officials are exposed purchasing yellow cake uranium from the government of Niger, sparking tensions throughout the Middle East. Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein has sexual relations with former Italian Prime Minister Anna Ilona Staller in exchange for United Nations weapons inspectors to enter into the country for "weapons of mass destruction". Sudanese Civil War ends, Darfur gains independence, after Samira Ahmed leads a Lysistrata "sex boycott". Massive famine and drought are reported throughout China, sparking riots and civil unrest nationwide. The 2003 Saturn Ion makes its hit debut.

2003: SARS virus signals further trouble for global economy. Daredevil starring Ben Afleck, Michael Duncan Clark and Jennifer Garner makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. Actor Ben Affleck and Actress Jennifer Lopez are married in Beverly Hills, California, sparking international attention. Singer Marilyn Manson and music group Dixie Chicks are placed under arrest after attacking music censorship laws. Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie are placed under arrest for obscenity charges in Los Angeles, California sparking national debate. Iraq gains the nuclear bomb. Jerry Springer (D-OH) announces his U.S. Senate bid in Cincinnati, Ohio. Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal lead the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA Championship. Riots and civil unrest erupt as reports of oil shortages take place in Mexico. New Hampshire proclaims itself a Libertarian "free state" after a mass migration of Libertarian Party members. Michelle Wie sparks national interest in the LPGA and women's golf after winning the U.S. Women's Open. Patriotic Americans Boycotting Anti-American Hollywood (a.k.a. PABAAH) launches the "Fire Hollywood" campaign, boycotting films with perceived anti-American ideas or themes; Calls for U.S. military action in the Middle East are cancelled after Lysistrata "sex boycotts". "Rainbow Parties", orgies primarily identified by teenagers and large numbers of partners, becomes popular after media exposure by Oprah Winfrey, sparking concern with public health officials. Iranian military officials announce that they have nuclear ICBM capability, raising tensions between Iran and Israel. Gods & Generals based on the novel by Jeffrey Shaara, starring Robert Duvall and Jeff Daniels makes its hit film debut. Writer Mark Millar uncovers a script for The Batman written by Orson Welles in Hollywood, California.

2003-2007: "Flexisexuality" trend spreads as "3rd Sexual Revolution" occurs.

2004: War in the Balkans collapses in "Vietnam War fashion" for the United States and Russia; Howard Dean elected President amidst global political turmoil. Hugo-Chavez led ALBA challenges FTAA, effectively dividing all of Latin America into 2 political/military camps. With the loss of Quebec, Canadian Alliance led by MP Stephen Harper, leads a conservative government. Action movie star Fernando Poe Jr. is elected in presidential elections in the Philippines on a populist platform. Former NBA Player Charles Barkley wins the Alabama gubernatorial campaign in 2004, touted as the "new face of the GOP". Jerry Springer (D-OH) wins his bid for the U.S. Senate. Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka (R-IL) wins the U.S. Senate seat. OPEC reports "oil production plateau", sparking regional and economic tensions. Amidst great controversy, inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger, constitutional amendment allowing for citizens not born in the United States to become president is ratified. Singers Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake are placed under arrest on obscenity charges after Timberlake exposes the breasts of Janet Jackson on national television. Film What The #$%& Do We Know? directed by William Arntz, starring Marlee Matlin, popularizes the spiritual idea of "We create our own reality..." Godzilla Final Wars, the 50th anniversary film, makes it's hit debut, taking in over $500 million and receives rave reviews. The official director is listed as "Alan Smithee". Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events starring Jim Carrey, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. Actor Ben Affleck wins a seat in the House of Representatives representing Boston, Massachusetts. Coca-Cola Corporation revives the Max Headroom television ad campaign with the rise of Vocaloids. Republican presidential candidate governor George W. Bush is exposed for going AWOL from the National Guard in 1972 and 1973 by Colonel Jerry Killian, (ret.) U.S. Army.

2005: OPEC reports "peak oil" production, sparking an economic crisis. Danica Patrick wins the Indianapolis 500, becoming the first woman to win the race in the event's history. Tupperware parties are revived through viral marketing in the United States and Canada. Calls for U.S. military action in the Middle East are cancelled after Lysistrata "sex boycotts".

2006: Eragon based on the novels by Christopher Paolini makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. South Beach Diet, identifying "good fats" and "good carbs", becomes popular. "Unite the Right" movement occurs in Canada. Chinese government suffers civil unrest and ethnic violence as the goverment begins to collapse. The Secret by Rhonda Byrne popularizes the "law of attraction" as a spiritual belief. HD-DVDs become a major bestseller for personal film home entertainment. Radio personality Howard Stern is placed under arrest for obscenity charges in New York City, New York. Former Italian Prime Minister Anna Ilona Staller has sexual relations with Osama bin Laden in an effort to prevent war from spreading in the Middle East. Great American Boycott; Illegal immigrants paralyze the economy by launching a national work stoppage. Actor Christopher Walken announces his exploratory committee for an independent bid for the presidency, during a speech in New York City, New York.

2007: The Golden Compass based on the novels by Philip Pullman, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. David Horowitz warns of the dangers of "Islamofascism" in Washington D.C., sparking international tensions. Islamic fundamentalists launch terrorist attacks against the United States. Jamie Lynn Spears promotes virginity and chastity across the United States. David Beckham's arrival to the Los Angeles Galaxy, sparks "Soccermania" across the United States. Greenhouse temperatures rise as methane levels soar due to the rise in temperatures in Siberia. Tensions mount as Iran announces thar it has pointed its nuclear weapons at Israel, raising tensions throughout the region. Actor Mel Gibson announces his candidacy for the U.S. presidency, based on social conservative ideas, in Los Angeles, California. Comeback player Rugby player Jonah Lomu leads the All-Blacks, winning the Rugby World Cup. Soda-Stream, home carbonation units for soda, become popular as a means to create inexpensive soft drinks.

2008: presidential bid Sarah Palin is elected President of the United States. Dmitry Medvedev successfully heads up the Russian transition to pro-Western democracy. Chessmaster Garry Kasparov becomes the leader of the democratic underground in Moscow, sparking international attention. Construction begins on the NAFTA superhighway, across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Saffron Terror; Indian Hindutva ultra-nationalists overthrow the government. France reports massive oil shortages, sparking civil unrest and violence. Portions of New York City, New York experience flooding. Massive flooding causes 50% of London to be submerged underwater, despite massive tide barriers. Major flooding occurs along the major rivers of Germany, sparking civil unrest and violence. Iranian military forces launch attacks against Israel, amidst the threat of a nuclear war in the region. Russian military forces enter into the Middle East, Israel launches a pre-emptive strike into Iran, Syria launches attacks throughout the region, Russia threatens nuclear strikes against the United States. Iceland is upheld as a model of political and economic stability. Speed Racer directed by the Wachowski Brothers, starring Christina Ricci and John Goodman, makes its hit debut. Tamagotchi: The Movie makes its hit film debut, reviving interest in Tamagotchi artificial pets. The Spirit starring Scarlett Johansen and Samuel L. Jackson, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise; The Spiderwick Chronicles basedon the children's novels, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise. Professional bicyclist Lance Armstrong wins the Tour de France in Paris, sealing his comeback; Brett Favre leads the New York Jets to the Super Bowl.

2009: FAIR Tax amendment signed into law under President Palin, repealing the 16th amendment and replacing all federal taxes with a national sales tax of 23%. Collapse of U.S. auto industry. Philadelphia Riots; Race riots erupt between the Asian-American and African-American communities in Philadelphia, PA. "Restore Honor" rally of Glenn Beck is held in Washington D.C. British Nationl Party (BNP) comes to power amidst concerns over European Union. Russia and China suffer civil unrest and violence due to oil shortages. Himalayan Glacier disappears due to global warming. Gold reaches c. $1900/ounce and oil reaches $300/barrel, causing many to consider socialism as a viable political idea. Ireland (a.k.a. "the Celtic Tiger") is upheld as an emerging economic powerhouse. Tamagotchi: The Happiest Story in the Universe makes its hit film debuts for young people world. Government of President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga collapses amidst a "sex strike" conducted throughout Kenya.

2010: M. Night Shamlayan launches the blockbuster franchise The Last Airbender. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time starring Jake Gyllenhaal, directed by Jery Bruckheimer, makes its hit debut, launching a film franchise; Jonah Hex starring Josh Brolin and Megan Fox, makes its hit debut , launching a film franchise. Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark written by Bono, makes its hit Broadway debut. U.N. officials report c. 200 million refugees worldwide due to environmental damage worldwide; Panama Canal reports massive delays and shutdowns due to traffic. Actor Alec Baldwin (D-NY) is elected to the U.S. Senate amidst rumors of marrital discord and financial problems. Singer Wyclef Jean is elected president of Haiti. Tensions mount nationwide as Russian and Chinese leaders back secessionist movements within the United States. European debt crisis in Greece, Italy, Spain, and Portugal triggers a worldwide economic collapse.

2011: "Friday" by Rebecca Black makes its hit musical debut. The Playboy Club (NBC-TV) makes its hit television debut. High written by Matthew Lombardo, starring Kathleen Turner makes its hit Broadway debut. Lebron James and Dwayne Wade lead the Miami Heat to the NBA Championship. Massive flooding in Ocean City, Maryland blamed on the greenhouse effect; Tuvalu's 9 main islands are submerged due to flooding. Atlantic City, New Jersey suffers massive flooding; WHO/CDC officials report 2 million new cases of skin cancer per year worldwide. Fighting is halted in Mindinao, Philippines between Muslim and government forces after local women launch a "sex strike".

2012: Vice-President Herman Cain promises to shake up the economy with his "9-9-9" tax plan. Tim Teebow leads the Denver Broncos to the Super Bowl. Algeria reports oil shortages, serving to destabilize the North African region. Archie Comics files for bankruptcy amidst protests by the American Family Association (AFA) over charges of obscenity over its portrayal of same-sex marriage.
 
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