Who claimed to have purchased the Liberty Bell as an April Fools’ prank in 1996?
In 1996, the fast-food chain Taco Bell orchestrated an elaborate April Fools’ Day prank, claiming to have purchased the Liberty Bell. They announced this in full-page newspaper advertisements, stating they were renaming it the “Taco Liberty Bell” to help reduce the national debt. This audacious claim caused a significant stir, with many people initially believing the announcement and expressing concern over the fate of the historic symbol.
The prank generated widespread media attention and public reaction, with the National Park Service receiving numerous calls from worried citizens. The White House even participated in the jest, adding to the confusion. However, by midday, Taco Bell revealed the stunt as an April Fools’ Day hoax. Despite the initial uproar, the prank proved to be a highly successful marketing campaign, resulting in substantial free publicity and increased sales for Taco Bell.
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