69: Y2K; Or, Panic Like It’s 1999 (Classic)

Dec 12 2023 • 45 mins

Since 2023 is coming to a close in a few weeks, we're bringing back an episode all about the near-catastrophe (or was it?) of Y2K. And because we care about you, this episode can also be a helpful reminder: don't accidentally set up their digital infrastructure on a system that might cause the downfall of a country. Enjoy!

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In honor of the 2022 New Year, This Was A Thing is making some serious resolutions.

1. We're going to find even more ways to work Bea Arthur into future episodes.

2. Ray and Rob are going to start a new Patreon perk - "Fight Club with Fred Silverman."

3. We will not program any computers in any way that could even possibly cause an infrastructure catastrophe.

If that last resolution sounds oddly specific and familiar, then you’re probably remembering 1999 - when the entire country (and world) was asking itself: will we make it to Y2K?

Rob teaches Ray about how the world nearly experienced a computer crisis at the turn of the millennium; why two extra digits make a world of difference; how the Backstreet Boys prep for the digital apocalypse; and how the fear of a global shutdown 23 years ago compares to the recent real-world pandemic experience.

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