Christmas, 1982

  Also in 1982...

The facsimile (fax) machine becomes a popular business tool.

MTV (Music Television) debuts on cable with music videos 24/7.
National daily newspaper USA Today begins publication.
Cheers and Family Ties premiere on TV; Rubik's Cubes are everywhere.
A new, mysterious disease appears that doctors initially call "acquired severe immunodeficiency disease" (ASID).
E.T.: the Extraterrestrial, Diner and Fast Times at Ridgemont High introduce the next generation of Hollywood stars.
A new laser-read digital music medium called the compact disc is introduced.
Chariots of Fire wins the Oscar® for Best Picture; its electronic soundtrack by Greek keyboardist Vangelis takes Best Original Score honors.
Darrell Waltrip wins the Winston Cup Championship.