I have always had extremely good luck when traveling. Aside from the odd canceled flight, I have never been stranded in an airport overnight, but I know plenty of people who have.

However...
...When a cancellation or substantial delay occurs, it's good to know a few tricks. Julie Johnsson of the Chicago Tribune brings an aged and little known rule to light:

Travelers whose flights were delayed, or who simply were running late, would sidle up to ticket counters and whisper, "Rule 240 me." And the airline workers usually would oblige, putting them on the next flight to their destination, even if it was on a rival carrier.

Rule 240 basically says that if an airline cannot carry out the services agreed upon when The Traveler bought the ticket, they are obligated to find the next most convenient route for the passenger. It was popular in the past but is unknown today, for the most part.

These days, most people in the travel industry are unaware of Rule 240. It wouldn't be a bad idea to read the fine print of the ticketing agreement or at least visit the airline's website to be aware of your rights as a passenger.

And, what about not screaming at the ticket agent? Yep, they'd probably be more willing to help you find another flight if they didn't want to kill you.