What Was Happening in 1900
The dawn of a new century brought optimism, imperial ambition, and the first stirrings of modern life.
Number 1 Songs in 1900 — UK and US Charts
"Soldiers of the Queen"
Various music hall performers
A patriotic music hall song by Leslie Stuart that became hugely popular during the Boer War. Formal record charts did not exist; popularity was measured by sheet music sales.
"A Bird in a Gilded Cage"
Harry Von Tilzer (composed), Steve Porter (recorded)
One of the biggest sheet music sellers of 1900, selling over 2 million copies. It told the sentimental story of a young woman married to a wealthy old man.
Biggest Films of 1900 — Box Office Hits
Cinderella (Cendrillon)
Box Office: N/A
Directed by Georges Méliès, this 6-minute film was one of the most ambitious of the era, using innovative trick photography and hand-coloured frames. Box office data was not tracked in early cinema.
Fashion and Style of 1900
Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era
Architecture and Buildings of 1900
Buildings completed and structures opened in 1900