CS
Your last “proof” proves nothing
“I challenge you to show proof of similar actions prior to 50 years ago”
There were just as many Goyisher symbols prior to 50 years ago. So obviously competing with them can’t be the reason (using your “logic”)/
Whatever explanation you have for why NOW they feel the need to compete can be used to explain why we have not seen The Chofetz Chayim et al doing it