1955

What Was Happening in 1955

Rock around the clock — the teenage revolution explodes as consumer culture hits top gear.

Born in

Number 1 Songs in 1955 — UK and US Charts

UK #1

"Rose Marie"

Slim Whitman

The American country singer's operatic yodelling style made 'Rose Marie' a surprise smash in Britain, where it spent 11 consecutive weeks at number one — a record that stood for over 36 years.

US #1

"Rock Around the Clock"

Bill Haley & His Comets

Originally released in 1954, it became a phenomenon after featuring in the film Blackboard Jungle and topped the Billboard chart for eight weeks. It is widely regarded as the song that launched the rock and roll era.

Biggest Films of 1955 — Box Office Hits

Lady and the Tramp

Box Office: $93 million (worldwide)

Disney's romantic animated classic was the highest-grossing film of 1955 and the first animated feature filmed in CinemaScope widescreen. The spaghetti-sharing scene became one of cinema's most iconic moments.

Fashion and Style of 1955

Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era

Architecture and Buildings of 1955

Buildings completed and structures opened in 1955

More About 1955

What Was Happening — A journey through the years