30 years ago, one decision altered the course of our connected world

This was the world's first web page. Thirty years ago, the World Wide Web entered the public domain. (Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images)

Thirty years ago, listeners tuning into Morning Edition heard about a futuristic idea that could profoundly change their lives.

"Imagine being able to communicate at-will with 10 million people all over the world," NPR's Neal Conan said. "Imagine having direct access to catalogs of hundreds of libraries as well as the most up-to-date news, business and weather reports. Imagine being able to get medical advice or gardening advice immediately from any number of experts.