How Daylight Saving Solved America’s Clock Craziness

The United States first observed Daylight Saving Time in 1918, as a measure to save energy during wartime. The federal government pulled back after the war, and DST became optional for the states. It went nationwide again during World War II, but afterward, DST became optional again, not only for states, but for each local government. Some places set their clocks forward in summer, others didn't, and to increase the confusion, places that observed DST could change their clocks whenever they pleased!   

In office buildings, it could be 4 p.m. on one floor and 5 p.m. on another — an important matter for several reasons, including who punched out first to get to happy hour. People would step off airplanes with no idea how to set their watches. Ponder this head-scratcher:

    “A short trip from Steubenville, Ohio, to Moundsville, West Virginia became a symbol of the deteriorating situation. A bus ride down this thirty-five-mile stretch of highway took less than an hour. But along that route, the local time changed seven times.”

When did the craziness end? Not until 1966! Read about the act that finally set US clocks on the same time at the Washington Post. And then go make sure you've set all your clocks back to standard time. -via Digg


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