1957

What Was Happening in 1957

Sputnik orbits overhead and a new European community is born down below.

Born in

Number 1 Songs in 1957 — UK and US Charts

UK #1

"Diana"

Paul Anka

The Canadian teenager's ode to an older woman was a worldwide smash and spent nine weeks at number one in the UK. Paul Anka was just 16 when he wrote and recorded it.

US #1

"All Shook Up"

Elvis Presley

Elvis dominated the charts again with this playful rocker, which spent eight weeks at number one. It was one of four Elvis singles to top the Billboard chart in 1957 alone.

Biggest Films of 1957 — Box Office Hits

The Bridge on the River Kwai

Box Office: $30 million (worldwide)

David Lean's war epic won seven Academy Awards including Best Picture. William Holden and Alec Guinness starred, with Guinness winning Best Actor. The film's whistled march became instantly iconic.

Fashion and Style of 1957

Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era

Architecture and Buildings of 1957

Buildings completed and structures opened in 1957

More About 1957

What Was Happening — A journey through the years