Vintage Ads That You Won’t Believe Were Ever Printed

Published on October 13, 2021
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As time marches on, hopefully progress is made in all aspects of humanity. A great way to measure whether or not progress has been made is to compare things that were deemed everyday and normal decades ago to see if they hold up to today’s standards. By that account, a lot of vintage ads really don’t stand the test of time. Many of them project a lot of chauvinistic ideas that would certainly bring about controversy were they to be run today. Here are some cringe-worthy ads that are truly hard to believe are real. On the other hand, some of these are just an interesting look into the past that show just how much life has changed over the decades.

Alcoa Aluminum (1960)

Apparently all it takes is a dainty grasp in order to open up Alcoa Aluminum caps. That’s right! Even women can open up bottles of ketchup thanks to Alcoa.

Alcoa Aluminum

Alcoa Aluminum

McDonald’s (1965)

Here’s a 1965 ad for a McDonald’s “All American” three course meal that included a hamburger, fries, and a milkshake, all for 52 cents. You could add in a drink for between 10 to 15 cents. That’s right, a full meal with drink set you back less than one dollar. Even with inflation, that’s a heck of a deal.

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McDonald's (1965)

McDonald’s (1965)