If you grew up in the 1980s, you probably remember those enormous television sets that seemed to take up half the living room. Encased in heavy wooden cabinets, these televisions were a familiar sight in homes around the world. Today, a funny nostalgic meme suggests that televisions were rarely stolen back then simply because they were too big and heavy to carry away!
Although televisions were certainly stolen in the 1980s, there is some truth behind the joke. Older television sets were much bulkier than the sleek, lightweight screens we use today.
1. They Were Incredibly Heavy
Televisions in the 1980s commonly used cathode-ray tube (CRT) technology. These sets contained large glass picture tubes and heavy internal components, making them considerably heavier than modern flat-screen TVs.
Some models were built into large wooden console cabinets, adding even more weight. Moving one could require two people, especially when navigating stairs or narrow doorways.
For anyone looking for a quick getaway, carrying one of these televisions would have been a serious challenge!
2. Their Size Made Them Difficult to Transport
Unlike today’s slim televisions, older console models were wide, deep, and awkwardly shaped. Their bulky cabinets made them difficult to grip and maneuver.
Even getting one through a doorway could be challenging. Without help or a suitable vehicle, moving such a large television was far from convenient.
This is why the meme feels so relatable: stealing one of these giant machines would hardly have been a simple task.
