1920s:In the prosperous postwar economy, people look for diversions to keep themselves entertained. The tremendous celebration after Lindbergh's arrival in Paris is considered another reason to have a party.

Today:For entertainment, broadcasters have found that people like "reality" shows with danger involved, such as Survivor and When Animals Attack.

1927:The first federal agency for regulating airplane transportation is just a year old.

Today:The air travel industry is crucial to the nation's economy, with many companies vulnerable to any disruption in business.

1927:The world is astounded that a person could be walking around in America one day and be in France thirty-three hours later.

Today:Airfreight companies routinely deliver letters between the two continents on a daily basis. The need for this has dropped since people are now sending information over the internet.

1930s:An enthusiastic amateur like Lindbergh could work with...