Step back in time: to 1959
Welcome back to 1959; we were reaching the end of one decade and beginning to look towards the future.
In 1959 modern life was already changing – a snapshot of politics at the time show just how traditional values were shifting and a consumer society was beginning to take shape.
For many, there was the belief that people in Britain “never had it so good”, but the gap between the rich and the poor was already widening, lighting the sparks for a decade where people were increasingly politically outspoken and striking out to live life on their own terms.
So grab a cuppa and step back in time with us to 1959…
Pop Culture
Popular Culture offers a glimpse into the lives of people and the big and little things that made up the everyday. Here’s a snapshot of life and pop culture in 1977.
Tyne Tees Television station goes on air for the first time
The first Mini goes on sale
Ben Hur wins the Academy Award for Best Picture
In the News
Here’s a look at some of the most significant events that made headlines in the UK and around the globe in 1959.
UK postcodes are introduced for the first time, initially as an experiment – the first post codes were used in the city of Norwich.
The first section of the M1 motorway is opened, connecting Watford and Rugby.
Sports
From big upsets to big wins, here are some of the most significant moments to take place in sport in 1959.
Nottingham Forest win the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium
Alex Olmedo wins the men’s singles at Wimbledon
Famous Births
Some big personalities came into the world in 1959. Here’s a few of the famous faces born this year.
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- Sarah, Duchess of York
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- Hugh Laurie
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- Simon Cowell
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- Lorraine Kelly
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- Morrisey
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- Emma Thompson
Music
Nothing takes us back like music; these were some of the best-selling artists and most popular songs on the radio in 1959.
Cliff Richard – Living Doll
Shirley Bassey – As I Love You
Elvis Presley – I Need Your Love Tonight
Emile Ford & The Checkmates – What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me For
Do you have any childhood memories from 1959? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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