Back in Time Today
The year 1959 was a time of transformation, cultural milestones, and historical moments that shaped the modern world. From political shifts and scientific breakthroughs to Hollywood glamour and everyday life, this year captured the essence of an era on the brink of change.
These 20 photographs transport us back to 1959, offering a glimpse into the lives, events, and innovations that defined the time. Whether it’s a boy and his dog watching television, the launch of the Barbie doll, or the Cuban Revolution, each image tells a unique story.
Step into the past and explore what the world looked like in 1959.
1. Boy and his dog Rocky watching TV
On a typical evening in 1959, a young boy finds comfort on his red sofa, his dog Rocky nestled by his side.
Rocky, a loyal companion, rests peacefully, sharing in the warmth of the moment.
It’s a snapshot of simpler times, where entertainment and companionship were found within the living room. The bond between boy and dog adds a touching element to this nostalgic image.
2. Alaska and Hawaii Join the Union
1959 marked the historic year when Alaska and Hawaii joined the United States as the 49th and 50th states, respectively. This expansion added not just land but also rich cultural diversity to the nation.
In Alaska, the majestic snowy landscapes contrasted with Hawaii’s tropical beaches, showcasing America’s varied geography. Citizens celebrated the new statehood with parades and festivities, embracing their identity as part of the union.
This significant event expanded the cultural and ecological tapestry of the United States, offering new opportunities and challenges as these distant lands integrated into the American identity.
3. “Some Like It Hot” Premiere in New York
The premiere of “Some Like It Hot” in New York was a dazzling affair, with Marilyn Monroe at the center of attention. Draped in a white sparkling evening dress, she captivated all with her charm and elegance.
The crowd, dressed predominantly in black, provided a striking contrast to Monroe’s radiant presence. This event encapsulated the glamour and excitement of Hollywood premieres in the late 1950s.
4. Beatniks in Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, known for its bohemian flair, was a hub for the beatnik culture in 1959. You could find young artists and poets, often sporting black turtlenecks and berets, passionately discussing art and literature.
These creative souls gathered in local cafés, their conversations punctuated by jazz music drifting through the air. The streets were lined with small art galleries showcasing abstract works, reflecting the avant-garde spirit of the time.
Many young people, inspired by writers like Jack Kerouac, sought authenticity in their lives, embracing unconventional lifestyles.
This subculture was a precursor to the larger counterculture movements that would dominate the following decade.
5. Photograph of the Russian Students before the Dyatlov Pass Incident
In February 1959, a group of ten Russian mountaineers posed for a photograph before embarking on their ill-fated journey in the Ural Mountains. Dressed in winter gear, they exude camaraderie and excitement.
This image is hauntingly serene, marking the last known moments before their mysterious disappearance. The snow-covered landscape serves as a backdrop to their adventurous spirits.
The Dyatlov Pass incident remains one of history’s unsolved mysteries, with the photograph offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of these young adventurers. It stands as a reminder of both the beauty and peril of exploration.
6. Barbie Doll Launch
The launch of the Barbie doll in 1959 was a groundbreaking moment in the world of toys and pop culture. With her glamorous style and limitless career options, Barbie quickly became a cultural icon.
The first Barbie, dressed in a striped swimsuit, captured the imagination of young girls across America. She offered a new world of possibilities, reflecting changing roles women could aspire to.
Despite criticisms over unrealistic beauty standards, Barbie remains a beloved figure, symbolizing both progress and controversy in the evolution of gender roles and consumer culture.
7. The Birth of Motown
1959 saw the birth of Motown Records, a defining chapter in music history. Founded by Berry Gordy in Detroit, Motown became synonymous with a new sound that blended pop and soul.
Gordy, a visionary entrepreneur, sought to bring African American music to the mainstream, nurturing talents like Smokey Robinson and The Supremes. This label not only transformed music but also played a crucial role in the civil rights movement, breaking racial barriers.
The infectious rhythms and heartfelt lyrics of Motown songs captivated audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
8. François Truffaut on the set of a 1959 French film
1959 was a pivotal year for cinema, particularly with the rise of the French New Wave. This movement broke traditional filmmaking conventions, bringing fresh perspectives to storytelling.
Iconic directors like François Truffaut emerged, creating films that resonated with youthful audiences. Moviegoers flocked to cinemas in Paris, eager to experience these innovative works that captured the complexities of post-war life.
The French New Wave not only influenced filmmakers worldwide but also redefined the art of cinema, encouraging a generation to explore new narrative possibilities and challenge existing norms.
9. A Fire in SLC
In 1959, Salt Lake City’s South 5th Street was a witness to both tranquility and drama. A vintage car, parked casually, stands against the backdrop of smoke billowing from a distant fire.
This juxtaposition captures the essence of urban life, where the mundane meets the unexpected. The mid-century architecture of Salt Lake City adds character to the scene, painting a picture of the era’s charm.
This photograph encapsulates the nuances of daily life in 1959, offering a window into the past where serenity and surprise coexisted on the bustling streets.
10. Police opening the hydrants in Chicago
In the heat of a Chicago summer, police officers perform a welcomed tradition by opening the fire hydrants. Children from the neighborhood flock to the scene, eager to escape the sweltering temperatures.
The urban backdrop, typical of 1959 Chicago, frames this heartwarming moment, capturing both the simplicity and the vitality of community life in the era.
11. The American National Exhibition in Moscow
The American National Exhibition in Moscow, held in 1959, was a significant cultural exchange during the Cold War. It showcased American lifestyle, technology, and culture to Soviet citizens, providing a rare glimpse into the Western world.
Visitors marveled at the array of modern appliances, cars, and consumer goods, sparking curiosity and sometimes envy. This event symbolized the ideological rivalry between the superpowers, highlighting contrasting ways of life.
The exhibition not only fostered dialogue but also underscored the complexities of the Cold War, as both nations sought to assert their ideological influence globally.
12. Disneyland Expansion
In 1959, Disneyland unveiled its first major expansion, introducing iconic attractions like the Matterhorn Bobsleds and the Submarine Voyage. This expansion reflected the burgeoning leisure culture of post-war America.
Families flocked to the theme park, eager to experience the magic and wonder it offered. Children and adults alike delighted in the imaginative rides, finding joy and escape in the fantasy world created by Walt Disney.
Disneyland’s growth underscored the era’s emphasis on entertainment and recreation, setting the standard for theme parks worldwide and leaving a lasting impact on global culture.
13. Soviet Premier Khrushchev Visits the USA
In a bid to ease Cold War tensions, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev visited the United States in 1959. This diplomatic tour marked the first Soviet leader to engage directly with Americans on their home soil.
Khrushchev’s itinerary included bustling cities like New York and more serene suburban areas, giving him a firsthand look at American life. His interactions with citizens and officials sought to bridge the ideological divide, albeit with limited success.
The visit highlighted the complexities of U.S.-Soviet relations, emphasizing the potential for dialogue amidst the tensions of the era.
14. The British Post-War Boom
1959 was a year marked by economic prosperity and cultural change in Britain, often referred to as the post-war boom. Streets buzzed with new cars and fashion trends, reflecting a society in transition.
People enjoyed increased disposable income, exploring new consumer goods and leisure activities. This era saw the rise of youth culture, as young Britons embraced music, fashion, and a spirit of rebellion.
The post-war boom laid the groundwork for the cultural revolutions of the 1960s, as Britain emerged from austerity to a period of opportunity and transformation.
15. The Birth of the Silicon Age
1959 marked the dawn of the Silicon Age with the invention of the integrated circuit at Bell Labs. This breakthrough laid the foundation for the modern computer revolution, transforming technology.
Scientists worked diligently in labs, surrounded by electronic components, to create a device that would revolutionize industries and daily life. The integrated circuit enabled the miniaturization of electronics, making devices faster and more efficient.
This innovation sparked a technological boom, paving the way for personal computers and the digital age, changing how we live, work, and connect with the world.
16. GM design boss Harley Earl with 3 very futuristic concept cars
Harley Earl, a visionary in the automotive world, stands beside his masterpieces – the Firebird I of 1952, Firebird II of 1956, and Firebird III of 1958. These concept cars, with their sleek lines and advanced designs, represent the future as imagined in 1959.
Earl’s influence on car design is monumental, and these models showcase his innovative spirit. Each car, with its unique curves and futuristic elements, tells a story of ambition and creativity.
The Firebirds stand as a testament to the era’s bold vision for transportation, pushing the boundaries of engineering and style.
17. Seminarians playing football in Madrid
Captured in 1959, a spirited group of seminarians engage in an impromptu football match in Madrid. Clad in their traditional robes, they bring a sense of joy and camaraderie to the dusty field.
The backdrop of a vibrant Madrid cityscape adds depth to the scene, illustrating the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Photographer Ramón Masats skillfully captured this moment, highlighting the playful side of these young men.
It’s an image that speaks to the universal love of sport, transcending cultural and occupational boundaries, and celebrating youthful exuberance.
18. Los Angeles Dodgers and White Sox World Series Game
The excitement in Los Angeles was palpable as the Dodgers faced the White Sox during the 1959 World Series. Don Drysdale and Larry Sherry, with their remarkable pitching, led the Dodgers to a thrilling 3-1 victory.
The game’s turning point came with Carl Furillo’s pinch-hit two-run single in the seventh inning. A record-setting attendance of 92,394 fans filled the stadium, marking a historic moment in baseball.
The energy and passion of the crowd reflected the growing popularity of America’s pastime. This game was a highlight of 1959, celebrated by sports enthusiasts nationwide.
19. The Thelonious Monk Orchestra at Town Hall
In the iconic setting of Town Hall, Thelonious Monk orchestrated a memorable performance in 1959. Surrounded by talented musicians, Monk played with his signature intensity and brilliance.
Hall Overton, the arranger and Monk’s close collaborator, observed from the sidelines, ensuring the show’s success. The audience was captivated by the innovative sound, blending jazz with orchestral elements.
This concert was a defining moment for Monk and his orchestra, solidifying their influence on the jazz scene. The energy of the performance and the engagement of the audience created a night that would be remembered in music history.
20. The Cuban Revolution
In 1959, the world watched as the Cuban Revolution unfolded, leading to profound changes in the Caribbean island. Fidel Castro, then a charismatic 33-year-old leader, became the face of this transformative movement.
Crowds thronged the streets of Havana, waving Cuban flags and cheering for change. The revolution promised land reforms and education for all, captivating the imaginations of many.
However, this shift also marked the onset of tensions with the United States, setting the stage for decades of geopolitical friction.
The Cuban Revolution remains a pivotal chapter in the history of Latin America, symbolizing the complexities of power and resistance.