1947

What Was Happening in 1947

Indian independence, the Marshall Plan, and a royal wedding lift spirits in an age of austerity.

Born in

Number 1 Songs in 1947 — UK and US Charts

UK #1

"Now Is the Hour"

Gracie Fields

A tender farewell song that became one of the most popular records in post-war Britain, resonating with families still separated by the aftermath of war.

US #1

"Near You"

Francis Craig and His Orchestra

This Nashville-produced hit topped the Billboard charts for 17 consecutive weeks, making it the longest-running number one of the year.

Biggest Films of 1947 — Box Office Hits

The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer

Box Office: $5.5 million

Cary Grant starred in this screwball comedy alongside Myrna Loy and a young Shirley Temple, becoming one of the top-grossing films of the year.

Fashion and Style of 1947

Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era

Architecture and Buildings of 1947

Buildings completed and structures opened in 1947

More About 1947

What Was Happening — A journey through the years