Quirky Reforms in America(a)

Lack of Public Acceptance

Good intentions don’t always succeed. Here are 10 examples.

10. "Freedom Fries" (2003)

Renaming French fries in the Capitol cafeteria to protest France’s lack of support for the Iraq War was both earnest and short-lived.

9. The War on the Tie (1970s)

Some workplaces tried to ban neckties as outdated symbols of hierarchy, but the rebellion never really gained traction.

8. Hippie Communes (1960s-70s)

The dream of self-sufficient, utopian communities often dissolved into chaos, squabbles, and the allure of modern conveniences.

7. Anti-Flirting Laws (1900s)

Cities like New York implemented bans on public flirting, complete with fines and arrests, but love found a way to override these laws.

6. Segway Cities (2001)

Once touted as the future of urban transportation, Segways were too bulky, awkward, and expensive for widespread adoption.

5. The Ford Pinto’s “Runabout” Rebranding (1970s)

Ford tried marketing the Pinto as a sporty, budget-friendly car, but exploding fuel tanks overshadowed the good intentions.

4. The “Free Love” Movement (1960s-70s)

A cultural shift aimed at liberating relationships from traditional constraints, but most Americans found it a bit too unconventional for daily life.

3. Daylight Saving Time Year-Round (1974-1975)

Tried during the energy crisis, but dark winter mornings and grumpy kids at bus stops led to its quick repeal.

2. Metrication Efforts (1975)

The push to convert the U.S. to the metric system confused Americans and fizzled out, leaving us stuck with inches, pounds, and gallons.

and 1. Prohibition (1920-1933)

The nationwide ban on alcohol, intended to curb crime and social ills, led instead to speakeasies, bootlegging, and a boom in organized crime.

See Lisa’s success story about gaining public acceptance.

Here’s to mature-adult living!

Jim Hasse, ABC, GCDF retired, author of “52 Shades of Graying”
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