Major Events of 1983: Reagan, Space Shuttles, and Cabbage Patch Dolls
Exploring the nostalgia of 1983, Gray Hair Dave discusses major events, cultural shifts, and rising prices over time. Reflecting on the impact of inflation post-COVID, he humorously laments the cost of groceries and everyday items. Join Gray Hair Dave for a trip down memory lane and a chuckle at the realities of modern expenses.
[00:03:01] Mario Brothers video game release.
[00:07:13] Women in space exploration.
[00:10:16] Spreading positivity and kindness.
In 1983, several significant events left a mark on history. One notable event was the introduction of the first mobile phone by Motorola, marking a pivotal moment in communication technology and paving the way for the mobile revolution in the coming decades.
Another noteworthy event in 1983 was the release of the iconic video game, Mario Brothers, as a Nintendo arcade game in Japan. This game became a cultural phenomenon, captivating gamers worldwide and solidifying its place in gaming history.
Additionally, the Brinks Mat warehouse robbery at Heathrow Airport in 1983 was a daring heist that captured public attention. The theft of three tons of gold bars valued at $37.5 million made it one of the most significant heists of its time.
These events from 1983 showcase a diverse range of developments and incidents that shaped the cultural landscape of the time, highlighting advancements in technology, entertainment, and criminal activities.
In 1983, the cost of goods and services was significantly lower compared to today's prices. For instance, a gallon of gas cost only 96 cents, a stark contrast to current prices. The average cost of a brand new house in 1983 was around $82,000, a fraction of today's real estate market prices, reflecting inflation and economic changes over the years.
Other examples from 1983 include a Volkswagen Rabbit priced at $6,994 and a Dodge Ram 50 available for $5,600, showing the affordability of items back then. Even everyday items like 2% milk at $1.35 a gallon and Kraft Singles at $1.49 for 12 slices demonstrate the disparity in costs between 1983 and today.
The average monthly rent in 1983 was approximately $335, making homeownership more accessible compared to today's real estate market. These examples underscore the significant difference in the cost of goods and services between 1983 and today, reflecting economic changes and inflation over the decades.
Reflecting on his personal life in 1983, Gray Hair Dave reminisces about his marriage to his first wife and the blessings he experienced during that time. Despite working at the paper mill on a swing shift, Dave expresses gratitude for the married life he had, acknowledging the blessings and good days shared with his wives. His reflections convey a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the positive aspects of his relationships during that period.
00:01:58 - "You can't go to the grocery store and not spend 50 bucks on three or four things."
00:06:38 - "the rumble that you felt in your body was enormous, enormous."
00:07:36-00:07:47 - "I wouldn't be surprised if we already haven't had a gay person or a lesbian person as a astronaut. And I wouldn't be a bit surprised to see a transgender"
