Yes, Barrie, the Ford and Firestone families were related in marriage, but back in history as you say. Both families were part of the wealthy, country club set in Detroit in the early part of the past century. I suspect that the remaining Firestones own nothing of the tire co as it was sold to Bridgestone some time ago.
And I agree that most of the problems were in the Southern US, and, in most cases, poor tire maintenance was involved. Run 'em 'til they go flat, I say.
A ton of bad press for both companies and the usual buck passing. Millions of dollars changes hands but no real benefit to anyone. Good point, Morty, some kind of public education on tire maintenance paid for by the two companies would have been a good "fine".
I remember being in Spokane, WA about the time in 2000 that the Firestone/Ford Explorer was hot in the press. I had Bridgestones on my 4Runner at the time and some goober in a motel parking lot was trying to tell me my tires were no good and I should get new ones right away. Not the same tire at all.