Everything 80s

The 1980s Cola Wars

Jan 22, 2025
Dive into the electrifying Cola Wars of the 1980s, where Coca-Cola and Pepsi battled for dominance. Discover the impact of iconic ads, the infamous Pepsi Challenge, and the meteoric rise of Diet Coke. Hear about the strategic marketing moves that involved celebrities like Michael Jackson. Explore the backlash against New Coke and how it reshaped brand loyalty. This riveting tale reveals how soft drinks became pivotal in shaping culture, identity, and consumer choices during a transformative decade.
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INSIGHT

Cola's Impact

  • Carbonated brown sugar water, sold by Coke and Pepsi, has significantly impacted society.
  • These brands have created memorable commercials, influencing culture and economics.
ANECDOTE

Coca-Cola's Origin

  • Coca-Cola's origin dates back to 1886, when John Pemberton created a coca-leaf-based tonic.
  • Initially containing trace amounts of cocaine, the drink evolved into a syrup mixed with carbonated water.
ANECDOTE

Pepsi's Beginnings

  • In 1893, Caleb Bradham experimented with flavors, creating "Brad's Drink."
  • Later renamed Pepsi-Cola, it was marketed as an aid in digestion.
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