1. Who was the President of the United States in 1949?
2. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1949?
3. To the nearest quarter, what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1949?
4. Who was the author of 1984, which came out in 1949?
5. In 1949, a mysterious person began an annual tradition of leaving three roses in a distinctive arrangement and a bottle of cognac at what famous writer’s grave?
6. What was the highest-grossing film of 1949
7. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1949?
8. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1949?
9. White Christmas by Bing Crosby was the first Christmas song to reach the number one position on the Billboard Music Charts. What was the second one?
10. How many people lived in the United States in 1949?
11. The Warner Brothers cartoon Fast and Furry-ous introduced what two iconic characters?
12. What was the Coyote’s full name?
13. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1949?
14. In 1949, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
15. Making his TV debut on LA’s KTTV, he was called “The World’s Most Famous Clown.”… who was he?
16. This automobile, introduced by Oldsmobile in 1949, has been called the ‘first muscle car.’ Name that car.
17. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1949?
18. This baseball star’s $90,000 contract made him seem like the highest-paid star of the 1949 season. Name that Yankee.
19. A few weeks later, another baseball star received an even higher contract for the season, almost $100,000. Name that Boston Baseball Hitter.
20. This 1949 film, based on a 2 volume novel, starred June Allyson, Margaret O’Brien, Elizabeth Taylor, Janet Leigh, and Peter Lawford.
21. Starring Laurence Olivier, this film won four Academy Awards in 1949, including Best Picture. It was the first non-Hollywood production to win the award. Name that film.
22. Founded in 1949, the North Atlantic Alliance is better known by what name?
23. Who was named the Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award winner for the National League?
24. First presented in 1949, what was the Volkswagen Type 2 vehicle?
25. Who won the 1949 World Series?
26. On February 7, 1949, This Arthur Miller tragedy opened at the Morosco Theatre in New York City and ran for 742 performances.
27. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1949: Elton John, Billy Joel, Hank Williams Jr, or Lionel Richie?
28. English Astronomer Fred Hoyle did not agree with a particular theory of how the universe began, but he gave it the nickname we use today. Name that theory.
29. The first television western aired on NBC in the United States. Name that cowboy.
30. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1949?
31. On May 9, 1949, Rainier III became Prince of Monaco. A few years later, he married a Hollywood star. Name his wife.
32. The first telethon took place in April 1949, raising over $1,000,000 from the Damon Runyan Memorial Fund. over 16 hours. Name the TV star who hosted the event.
33. Airing from June 1949 to April 1955, this was the first American live-action Science Fiction television show.
34. Opened in Rochester, New York, what is the George Eastman Museum dedicated to?
35. Who were the 1949 NFL Champions?
36. This Major League Baseball player reached base safely for the 84th consecutive game, a record. Name that player.
37. This musical comedy was the last film starring the Marx Brothers. What was the name of the movie
38. The title of this 1949 Abbot and Costello film mentions the other co-star by name. What is the film’s title?
39. This 1949 film, directed by Raoul Walsh and starring James Cagney, is considered by many to be the best gangster movie of all time. Name that film.
40. How much did an average Volkswagen Beetle cost in 1949?
41. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1949?
42. This reality/documentary show started as a newspaper comic strip feature in 1918, originally called Champs and Chumps. It has been revived several times. Name that show!
43. This American soldier, actor, and songwriter was one of World War II’s most decorated combat soldiers. His book is titled To Hell and Back. Name this American hero.
44. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1949?
45. It only lasted a month on NBC, but TC historians call this program “the first daytime soap opera.” Can you name that program?
46. Staring as a 1929 radio dramedy, this came back as a television show on CBS and was one of the very first sitcoms. Name that show.
47. RCA Victor introduced a 7-inch product that changed music for the next 70 years. What was it?
48. Before 1949, Jordan had a different name. What was the old name of the country?
49. The biggest hit from this 1949 musical is “Some Enchanted Evening”. What is the name of the musical?
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. Who were the composers of South Pacific?
2. Who was the American Vice-President in 1949?
3. What did the fictional Book, Film, and Television Cowboy Hopalong Cassidy like to drink?
4. Who were the 1949 NBA Champions?
5. On March 21, 1949, WTVJ signed on the air as the first television station in what state?
6. The unfortunate death of 3-year-old Kathy Fiscus was one of the first ongoing pop culture stories. What happened to her?
7. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1949?
8. America’s National Security Agency (NSA) was founded in 1952, but the agency it replaced was formed in 1949. Name the prior agency.
9. What two leagues merged in 1949 to form the National Basketball Association (NBA)?
10. Who was the Pope in 1949?
The Answers:
49 Trivia Answers for 1949 History
1. Who was the President of the United States in 1949? Harry S. Truman (April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1953)
2. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1949? Riders In The Sky (A Cowboy Legend) by Vaughn Monroe
3. To the nearest quarter, what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1949? 50 cents
4. Who was the author of 1984, which came out in 1949? George Orwell
5. In 1949, a mysterious person began an annual tradition of leaving three roses in a distinctive arrangement and a bottle of cognac at what famous writer’s grave? Edgar Allen Poe (January 19, 1809 – October 7, 1849)
6. What was the highest-grossing film of 1949? Samson and Delilah
7. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1949? 14 cents
8. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1949? 84 cents
9. White Christmas by Bing Crosby was the first Christmas song to reach the number one position on the Billboard Music Charts. What was the second one? All I Want For Christmas (Is My Two Front Teeth) by Spike Jones
10. How many people lived in the United States in 1949? The population was an estimated 149,188,130 people.
11. The Warner Brothers cartoon Fast and Furry-ous introduced what two iconic characters? The Road Runner and the Coyote
12. What was the Coyote’s full name? Wile E. Coyote
13. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1949? In 1949, The Toronto Maple Leafs won over the Detroit Red Wings (4 games to 0)
14. In 1949, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 65.2 years, Women – 70.7 years.
15. Making his TV debut on LA’s KTTV, he was called “The World’s Most Famous Clown.”… who was he? Bozo The Clown
16. This automobile, introduced by Oldsmobile in 1949, has been called the ‘first muscle car.’ Name that car. Oldsmobile 88 (Rocket 88)
17. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1949? The Egyptian by Mika Waltari
18. This baseball star’s $90,000 contract made him seem like the highest-paid star of the 1949 season. Name that Yankee. Joe DiMaggio
19. A few weeks later, another baseball star received an even higher contract for the season, almost $100,000. Name that Boston Baseball Hitter. Ted Williams
20. This 1949 film, based on a 2 volume novel, starred June Allyson, Margaret O’Brien, Elizabeth Taylor, Janet Leigh, and Peter Lawford. Little Women
21. Starring Laurence Olivier, this film won four Academy Awards in 1949, including Best Picture. It was the first non-Hollywood production to win the award. Name that film. Hamlet
22. Founded in 1949, the North Atlantic Alliance is better known by what name? NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
23. Who was named the Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award winner for the National League? Jackie Robison (Ted Williams won for the American League)
24. First presented in 1949, what was the Volkswagen Type 2 vehicle? Microbus (small bus)
25. Who won the 1949 World Series? In 1949, The New York Yankees won, beating the Brooklyn Dodgers (4 games to 1)
26. On February 7, 1949, This Arthur Miller tragedy opened at the Morosco Theatre in New York City and ran for 742 performances. Death of a Salesman
27. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1949: Elton John, Billy Joel, Hank Williams Jr, or Lionel Richie? Elton John (born March 25, 1947)
28. English Astronomer Fred Hoyle did not agree with a particular theory of how the universe began, but he gave it the nickname we use today. Name that theory. The Big Bang
29. The first television western aired on NBC in the United States. Name that cowboy. Hopalong Cassidy
30. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1949? Winston Churchill
31. On May 9, 1949, Rainier III became Prince of Monaco. A few years later, he married a Hollywood star. Name his wife. Grace Kelly (November 12, 1929 – September 14, 1982)
32. The first telethon took place in April 1949, raising over $1,000,000 from the Damon Runyan Memorial Fund. over 16 hours. Name the TV star who hosted the event. Milton Berle
33. Airing from June 1949 to April 1955, this was the first American live-action Science Fiction television show. Captain Video and His Video Rangers
34. Opened in Rochester, New York, what is the George Eastman Museum dedicated to? Photography
35. Who were the 1949 NFL Champions? Philadelphia Eagles
36. This Major League Baseball player reached base safely for the 84th consecutive game, a record. Name that player. Ted Williams
37. This musical comedy was the last film starring the Marx Brothers. What was the name of the movie? Love Happy
38. The title of this 1949 Abbot and Costello film mentions the other co-star by name. What is the film’s title? Abbott and Costello Meet the Killer, Boris Karloff
39. This 1949 film, directed by Raoul Walsh and starring James Cagney, is considered by many to be the best gangster movie of all time. Name that film. White Heat
40. How much did an average Volkswagen Beetle cost in 1949? $1280
41. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1949? $0.27 per gallon
42. This reality/documentary show started as a newspaper comic strip feature in 1918, originally called Champs and Chumps. It has been revived several times. Name that show! Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
43. This American soldier, actor, and songwriter was one of World War II’s most decorated combat soldiers. His book is titled To Hell and Back. Name this American hero. Audie Murphy
44. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1949? 70 cents
45. It only lasted a month on NBC, but TC historians call this program “the first daytime soap opera”. can you name that program? These Are My Children
46. Staring as a 1929 radio dramedy, this came back as a television show on CBS and was one of the very first sitcoms. Name that show. The Goldbergs
47. RCA Victor introduced a 7-inch product that changed music for the next 70 years. What was it? The 45 RPM Record.
48. The country of Jordan had a different name before 1949. What was the old name of the country? Transjordan
49. The biggest hit from this 1949 musical is “Some Enchanted Evening”. What is the name of the musical? South Pacific
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. Who were the composers of South Pacific? Richard Rodgers (music), Oscar Hammerstein II (lyrics)
2. Who was the American Vice-President in 1949? Alben W. Barkley (January 20, 1949 – January 20, 1953) The office of vice president was vacant from April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1949
3. What did the fictional Book, Film, and Television Cowboy Hopalong Cassidy like to drink? Sarsaparilla.
4. Who were the 1949 NBA Champions? For the 1948-49 Season, Champion Minneapolis Lakers won 4 games to 2 over the Washington Capitals
5. On March 21, 1949, WTVJ signed on the air as the first television station in what state? Florida
6. The unfortunate death of 3-year-old Kathy Fiscus was one of the first ongoing pop culture stories. What happened to her? She fell down a well. (in San Marino, California.)
7. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1949? Ponder
8. America’s National Security Agency (NSA) was founded in 1952, but the agency it replaced was formed in 1949. Name the prior agency. Armed Forces Security Agency (AFSA)
9. What two leagues merged in 1949 to form the National Basketball Association (NBA)? Basketball Association of America and the National Basketball League
10. Who was the Pope in 1949? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
(answers) 1. Who was the President of the United States in 1948?
2. What was the name of the American initiative passed in 1948 for foreign aid to Western Europe?
3. What was the highest-grossing film of 1948?
4. What was the highest-grossing musical film of 1948?
5. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1948?
6. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1948?
7. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1948?
8. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1948?
9. What is the civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force called?
10. This song, about an unusual plant, was written in 1927 but became a Number One Hit for Art Mooney in 1948. Name that song
11. The Soviet Union controlled Eastern Berlin, Germany, and interfered with travel between both parts of the city. What was this restriction called?
12. What was the response from the United States and the Allies to the Berlin Blockade?
13. This television variety was best known as The Ed Sullivan Show, but it had another title for the first seven years. Name that old TV show.
14. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1948?
15. In 1948, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
16. By the end of the 1948 Major League Baseball season, only one stadium did not have lights installed for night games, although they did get them 40 years later. Name that baseball stadium.
17. How many people lived in the United States in 1948?
18. This stadium was renamed Mile High Stadium in 1968, but what was it called when it was built in 1948?
19. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1948 to the nearest dime?
20. This show moved from radio to television in 1958, and gave Milton Berle the nickname of “Mister Television”
21. Who was the Republican nominee for President in 1948?
22. After the 1948 election, what newspaper erroneously declared “Dewey Defeats Truman”?
23. On November 14, 1948, Buckingham Palace released a statement: “Her Royal Highness the Princess Elizabeth Duchess of Edinburgh was safely delivered of a Prince at 9:14 o’clock this evening. Her Royal Highness and the infant Prince are both well.” Who was the prince they were talking about?
24. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1948: Dan Aykroyd, Samuel L. Jackson, Ozzy Osbourne, Jackson Browne, or Christa McAuliffe?
25. What company used the slogan: “A Diamond is Forever”?
26. This household product, invented by Ed Lowe, for indoor pets, is a $2 Billion a year industry.
27. First produced in 1948, now they are the longest-running pickup brand in the world. What are “they”?
28. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1948?
29. This show has been on and off the air since 1948, capturing ordinary people being confronted with unusual situations. HINT: Smile!
30. This Oscar-winning film had the same title as a Top Ten song by Bertie Higgins in 1981…
31. This musical, written by Bella and Samuel Spewack with music and lyrics by Cole Porter, is based on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Name that Broadway show.
32. Who won the 1948 World Series?
33. What American city banned pinball machines and other “gaming devices” until 1976?
34. This Chicago television station, a superstation on cable decades late, first went on the air on April 5, 1948.
35. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1948?
36. What restaurant had the first drive-thru window?
37. To look sleeker and futuristic, Cadillac added what to its 1948 cars?
38. This company originally produced utilitarian four-wheel drive, off-road vehicles but now focuses on luxury SUVs. Name this English company.
39. What two newspapers merged to form the Chicago Sun-Times?
40. The 1948 Summer Olympics were held in London, United Kingdom. How many medals did the US win?
41. The 1948 Winter Olympics were held in St. Moritz, Switzerland. How many medals did the US win?
42. This Western film gave us the line – “Badges? We ain’t got no badges! We don’t need no badges! I don’t have to show you any stinking badges!”
43. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1948?
44. Rudolf and Adolf Dassler both opened shoe companies in Bavaria, Germany. What are the names of the two companies the brothers founded?
45. What is the common name for the (new in 1948) microgroove product?
46. Founded in 1948, this United Nations organization is responsible for international public health. Name that organization.
47. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1948?
48. This racing company began in 1948 and is headquartered in Daytona, Florida. Name that company.
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What do the letters in NASCAR mean?
2. What did the United Kingdom name its new comprehensive health care system in 1948?
3. The first Tony Award for Best Play was presented. Name the winning play.
4. Who was the Pope in 1948?
5. Air National Guard pilot Thomas F. Mantell died in the crash of his F-51 Mustang fighter plane while doing what?
6. Who were the 1948 NFL Champions?
7. Margaret Chase Smith was elected as a United States Senator, representing Maine. She holds a first-time distinction for serving in Congress; what is that honor?
8. Who were the 1948 NBA Champions?
9. In 1948, the Soviet Union began to jam what radio broadcasts?
10. Who was the American Vice-President in 1948?
The Answers:
48 Trivia Answers for 1948 History
1. Who was the President of the United States in 1948? Harry S. Truman (April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1953)
2. What was the name of the American initiative passed in 1948 for foreign aid to Western Europe? The Marshall Plan
3. What was the highest-grossing film of 1948? Red River (The Paleface was a very close #2)
4. What was the highest-grossing musical film of 1948? Easter Parade
5. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1948? 14 cents
6. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1948? 87 cents
7. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1948? The Big Fisherman by Lloyd C. Douglas
8. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1948? Buttons and Bows by Dinah Shore
9. What is the civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force called? Civil Air Patrol
10. This song, about an unusual plant, was written in 1927 but became a Number One Hit for Art Mooney in 1948. Name that song. I’m Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover
11. The Soviet Union controlled Eastern Berlin, Germany, and interfered with travel between both parts of the city. What was this restriction called? The Berlin Blockade
12. What was the response from the United States and the Allies to the Berlin Blockade? The Berlin Airlift
13. This television variety was best known as The Ed Sullivan Show, but it had another title for the first seven years. Name that old TV show. Toast of the Town
14. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1948? In 1948, The Toronto Maple Leafs won over the Detroit Red Wings (4 games to 0)
15. In 1948, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 64.6 years, Women – 69.9 years.
16. By the end of the 1948 Major League Baseball season, only one stadium did not have lights installed for night games, although they did get them 40 years later. Name that baseball stadium. Wrigley Field.
17. How many people lived in the United States in 1948? The population was an estimated 146,631,302 people.
18. This stadium was renamed Mile High Stadium in 1968, but what was it called when it was built in 1948? Bears Stadium (For the Denver Bears minor league baseball team)
19. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1948 to the nearest dime? 40 cents
20. This show moved from radio to television in 1958, and gave Milton Berle the nickname of “Mister Television” Texaco Star Theater
21. Who was the Republican nominee for President in 1948? Thomas E. Dewey
22. After the 1948 election, what newspaper erroneously declared “Dewey Defeats Truman”? The Chicago Tribune
23. On November 14, 1948, Buckingham Palace released a statement: “Her Royal Highness the Princess Elizabeth Duchess of Edinburgh was safely delivered of a Prince at 9:14 o’clock this evening. Her Royal Highness and the infant Prince are both well.” Who was the prince they were talking about? Prince Charles
24. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1948: Dan Aykroyd, Samuel L. Jackson, Ozzy Osbourne, Jackson Browne, or Christa McAuliffe? Dan Aykroyd (born July 1, 1952)
25. What company used the slogan: “A Diamond is Forever”? DeBeers
26. This household product, invented by Ed Lowe, for indoor pets, is a $2 Billion a year industry. The Litter Box
27. First produced in 1948, now they are the longest-running pickup brand in the world. What are “they”? Ford F-Series Pickup Trucks
28. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1948? 72 cents
29. This show has been on and off the air since 1948, capturing ordinary people being confronted with unusual situations. HINT: Smile! Candid Camera
30. This Oscar-winning film had the same title as a Top Ten song by Bertie Higgins in 1981… Key Largo
31. This musical, written by Bella and Samuel Spewack with music and lyrics by Cole Porter, is based on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Name that Broadway show. Kiss Me, Kate
32. Who won the 1948 World Series? In 1948, The Cleveland Indians won, beating the Boston Braves (4 games to 2)
33. What American city banned pinball machines and other “gaming devices” until 1976? New York City
34. This Chicago television station, a superstation on cable decades late, first went on the air on April 5, 1948. WGN (tagline “Chicago’s very own”)
35. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1948? Harry S. Truman
36. What restaurant had the first drive-thru window? In-n-Out Burger in Baldwin Park, California.
37. To look sleeker and futuristic, Cadillac added what to its 1948 cars? Tailfins
38. This company originally produced utilitarian four-wheel drive, off-road vehicles but now focuses on luxury SUVs. Name this English company. Land Rover
39. What two newspapers merged to form the Chicago Sun-Times? The Chicago Sun and Chicago Daily Times
40. Held in London, United Kingdom, how many medals did the US win in the 1948 Summer Olympics? 84. 38 Gold, 27 Silver, 19 Bronze.
41. Held in St. Moritz, Switzerland, how many medals did the US win in the 1948 Winter Olympics? 9. 3 Gold, 4 Silver, 2 Bronze.
42. This Western film gave us the line – “Badges? We ain’t got no badges! We don’t need no badges! I don’t have to show you any stinking badges!” The Treasure of the Sierra Madre
43. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1948? $0.26 per gallon
44. Rudolf and Adolf Dassler both opened shoe companies in Bavaria, Germany. What are the names of the two companies the brothers founded? Puma and Adidas (They divided the company they had started in 1924)
45. What is the common name for the (new in 1948) microgroove product? Long Playing Record album
46. Founded in 1948, this United Nations organization is responsible for international public health. Name that organization. World Health Organization (WHO)
47. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1948? Citation
48. This racing company began in 1948 and is headquartered in Daytona, Florida. Name that company. NASCAR
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What do the letters in NASCAR mean? National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing
2. What did the United Kingdom name its new comprehensive health care system in 1948? The National Health Service
3. The first Tony Award for Best Play was presented. Name the winning play. Mister Roberts
4. Who was the Pope in 1948? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
5. Air National Guard pilot Thomas F. Mantell died in the crash of his F-51 Mustang fighter plane while doing what? He was sent by Godman Army Airfield at Fort Knox, Kentucky, to pursue an unidentified flying object (UFO).
6. Who were the 1948 NFL Champions? Philadelphia Eagles
7. Margaret Chase Smith was elected as a United States Senator, representing Maine. She holds a first-time distinction for serving in Congress; what is that honor? She was the first woman to serve in the US House Of Representatives and the United States Senate.
8. Who were the 1948 NBA Champions? For the 1947-48 Season, Champion Baltimore Bullets (1st) won 4 games to 2 over the Philadelphia Warriors
9. In 1948, the Soviet Union began to jam what radio broadcasts? Voice of America broadcasts
10. Who was the American Vice-President in 1948? The office of vice president was vacant from April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1949
1946 Trivia: Dive Into the Post-War Era of Innovation and Culture!
1946 was a transformative year as the world began rebuilding after the Second World War. This year marked the start of a cultural, technological, and economic boom that would define the post-war era. From groundbreaking inventions to timeless classics in entertainment, 1946 was a year full of significant milestones. Test your knowledge with trivia about the year that helped shape the modern world!
Do you know 1946? Answer questions like Which classic Christmas film debuted that year but only became a hit decades later? What beloved toy brand began its journey? Who was the U.S. President during this pivotal year? Which iconic fashion item became a staple for generations to come?
Here’s some bonus trivia to get you started:
It’s a Wonderful Life, now one of the most iconic holiday films ever was released, but it initially underperformed at the box office.
The first Cannes Film Festival was held in France, celebrating international cinema.
The Bikini swimsuit debuted in Paris, sparking controversy and a fashion revolution.
Tupperware was introduced to the market, changing the way people stored food.
The NBA (National Basketball Association) was officially founded in sports, redefining professional basketball.
1946 also marked significant advancements in technology and geopolitics: The United Nations held its first session, aiming to foster peace and cooperation worldwide. In the tech world, ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer), the world’s first general-purpose computer, was completed, signaling the dawn of the computer age.
Whether you’re brushing up on trivia for a challenge or revisiting the rich history of the 1940s, this page is packed with fascinating moments highlighting why 1946 was a cornerstone year for the modern era.
Are you ready to explore the milestones, inventions, and entertainment that made 1946 unforgettable? Test your knowledge now and relive a year that bridged the past and the future!
2. At Club 500 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, this comedy duo performed their first show as a comedy team. Name them.
3. This woman was the first American saint to be canonized. Name that American Saint.
4. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1946?
5. In 1946, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
6. What was the highest-grossing film of 1946?
7. This club, exclusive to very smart people, opened on October 1, 1946. Name that club.
8. Starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour, with Alaska as the destination, name the Fourth “Road To…” film.
9. Who was the President of the United States in 1946?
10. Who was the American Vice-President in 1946?
11. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1946?
12. The “2-way wrist radio” was introduced in what popular comic strip?
13. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1946?
14. How many people lived in the United States in 1946?
15. This television network rivaled NBC and CBS when it started broadcasting, but they ended up operating in 1956. Name that almost-forgotten TV network.
16. Now called ‘Holiday World’ in a town called Santa Clause in Indiana, this was America’s First Theme Park. (Not just amusement park). What was it called when it opened in 1946?
17. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1946: Diane Keaton, Naomi Judd, Joy Behar, Dolly Parton, or Susan Lucci?
18. In September 1946, this film festival debuted in France.
19. This NHL player started his career in 1946 and played into 1980, with 1,767 games. Name that National Hockey League legend.
20. In 1946, who first mentioned the “Iron Curtain” at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri?
21. This 1946 Disney film, a mix of live-action and animation, won an Academy Award for Best Song. Name that film.
22. The name of this vehicle means ‘wasp’ in Italian. What is the vehicle?
23. UNICEF was founded in 1946. What is the full name of the organization?
24. This secret US Government program brought more than 1,600 German scientists, engineers, and technicians from Germany to the United States. Name that secret program.
25. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1946?
26. This future rock star was born as Farrokh Bulsara in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Name that rock star.
27. A young actress decided to use a stage name, Marilyn Monroe, instead of her given name. What was this actress’s real name?
28. In this area, the United Kingdom granted what we now call Jordan its independence. What was it called then?
29. Who won the 1946 World Series?
30. Eventually selling over 50 million copies, what was the name of the book about raising small children by pediatrician Benjamin Spock?
31. The Nat King Cole Trio recorded a song about a road for the first time, making that road one of the most famous in America. Name that road.
32. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1946?
33. This South Pacific area, part of the Marshall Islands, became a testing area for American atomic bombs…
34. Marguerite Perey discovered Actinium K, also known as ‘francium’; what is francium’s Atomic Number?
35. This flight demonstration team was formed by the US Navy in 1946. Name that squadron.
36. This very large professional wrestler was born on May 19, 1946, in Grenoble, France.
37. This musical, starring Ethel Merman, premiered on Broadway at the Imperial Theatr
38. Originally founded to help support people affected by World War II, this organization still offers aid packages to those in need. Name that organization.
39. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1946?
40. This American fast food company started as ‘Dwarf Grill’ in 1946, changed its name to ‘Dwarf House’, and changed its name again in 1967. What is that company?
41. Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering was founded in 1942 with about 20 employees. What is the name of that company today?
42. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1946 to the nearest dime?
43. The Roosevelt dime was released in 1946. What was the dime used from 1916 through 1945?
44. Although seldom seen today, this product was first produced in 1946 and was a major part of the plot in the 1983 film Trading Places.
45. Directed by Howard Hughes, this film made Jane Russell a Hollywood sex symbol.
46. This film, starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore, opened in December 1946
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. Who directed It’s a Wonderful Life?
2. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1946?
3. This early film noir based on the 1934 novel of the same name by James M. Cain features Lana Turner and John Garfield. Name
4. Although the United Nations eventually settled in New York City, what was their American first choice town?
5. What was the name of American foreign policy’s primary purpose to contain Soviet geopolitical expansion during the Cold War?
6. What was the first official Formula One Race?
7. Weighing 60,0000 pounds, what was the computer’s name unveiled at the University of Pennsylvania in February 1946?
8. Who were the 1946 NFL Champions?
9. This space project bounced radar waves off the Moon, proving that communication between Earth and outer space is possible. Name that US government project.
10. Who was the Pope in 1946?
The Answers:
46 Trivia Answers for 1946 History
1. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1946? The Gypsy by The Ink Spots
2. At Club 500 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, this comedy duo performed their first show as a comedy team. Name them. Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis
3. This woman was the first American saint to be canonized. Name that American Saint. Mother Cabrini (Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini)
4. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1946? The King’s General by Daphne du Maurier
5. In 1946, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 64.4 years, Women – 69.4 years.
6. What was the highest-grossing film of 1946? The Best Years of Our Lives
7. This club, exclusive to very smart people, opened on October 1, 1946. Name that club. Mensa
8. Starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Dorothy Lamour, with Alaska as the destination, name the Fourth “Road To…” film. Road to Utopia
9. Who was the President of the United States in 1946? Harry S. Truman (April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1953)
10. Who was the American Vice-President in 1946? The office of vice president was vacant from April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1949
11. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1946? In 1946, The Montreal Canadiens won over the Boston Bruins (4 games to 1)
12. The “2-way wrist radio” was introduced in what popular comic strip? Dick Tracy
13. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1946? 10 cents
14. How many people lived in the United States in 1946? The population was an estimated 141,388,566 people.
15. This television network rivaled NBC and CBS when it started broadcasting, but they ended up operating in 1956. Name that almost-forgotten TV network. The DuMont Television Network
16. Now called ‘Holiday World’ in a town called Santa Clause in Indiana, this was America’s First Theme Park. (Not just amusement park). What was it called when it opened in 1946? Santa Claus Land
17. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1946: Diane Keaton, Naomi Judd, Joy Behar, Dolly Parton, or Susan Lucci? Joy Behar (born October 7, 1942)
18. In September 1946, this film festival debuted in France. The Cannes Film Festival
19. This NHL player started his career in 1946 and played into 1980, with 1,767 games. Name that National Hockey League legend. Gordie Howe
20. In 1946, who first mentioned the “Iron Curtain” at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri? Winston Churchill
21. This 1946 Disney film, a mix of live-action and animation, won an Academy Award for Best Song. Name that film. Song of the South (Song: Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah)
22. The name of this vehicle means ‘wasp’ in Italian. What is the vehicle? Vespa (scooter).
23. UNICEF was founded in 1946. What is the full name of the organization? United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund
24. This secret US Government program brought more than 1,600 German scientists, engineers, and technicians from Germany to the United States. Name that secret program. Project Paperclip
25. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1946? Assault
26. This future rock star was born as Farrokh Bulsara in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Name that rock star. Freddie Mercury (September 5, 1946 – November 24, 1991)
27. A young actress decided to use a stage name, Marilyn Monroe, instead of her given name. What was this actress’s real name? Norma Jean Baker
28. In this area, the United Kingdom granted what we now call Jordan its independence. What was it called then? Transjordan
29. Who won the 1946 World Series? In 1946, The St. Louis Cardinals won, beating the Boston Red Sox (4 games to 3)
30. Eventually selling over 50 million copies, what was the name of the book about raising small children by pediatrician Benjamin Spock? The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care
31. The Nat King Cole Trio recorded a song about a road for the first time, making that road one of the most famous in America. Name that road. (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66
32. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1946? James F. Byrnes
33. This South Pacific area, part of the Marshall Islands, became a testing area for American atomic bombs… Bikini Atoll
34. Marguerite Perey discovered Actinium K, also known as ‘francium’; what is francium’s Atomic Number? 87
35. This flight demonstration team was formed by the US Navy in 1946. Name that squadron. The Blue Angels
36. This very large professional wrestler was born on May 19, 1946, in Grenoble, France. Andre the Giant (died on January 27, 1993))
37. This musical, starring Ethel Merman, premiered on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre Annie Get Your Gun
38. Originally founded to help support people affected by World War II, this organization still offers aid packages to those in need. Name that organization. CARE (Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere, originally the Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe)
39. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1946? $0.21 per gallon
40. This American fast food company started as ‘Dwarf Grill’ in 1946, changed its name to ‘Dwarf House’, and changed its name again in 1967. What is that company? Chick-fil-A
41. Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering was founded in 1942 with about 20 employees. What is the name of that company today? SONY
42. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1946 to the nearest dime? 40 cents
43. The Roosevelt dime was released in 1946. What was the dime used from 1916 through 1945? The Mercury Dime
44. Although seldom seen today, this product was first produced in 1946 and was a major part of the plot in the 1983 film Trading Places. Frozen concentrated orange juice
45. Directed by Howard Hughes, this film made Jane Russell a Hollywood sex symbol. The Outlaw
46. This film, starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore, opened in December 1946. It’s a Wonderful Life
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. Who directed It’s a Wonderful Life? Frank Capra
2. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1946? Assault
3. This early film noir based on the 1934 novel of the same name by James M. Cain features Lana Turner and John Garfield. Name The Postman Always Rings Twice
4. Although the United Nations eventually settled in New York City, what was their American first choice town? Greenwich, Connecticut
5. What was the name of American foreign policy’s primary purpose to contain Soviet geopolitical expansion during the Cold War? The Truman Doctrine
6. What was the first official Formula One Race? 1946 Turin Grand Prix
7. Weighing 60,0000 pounds, what was the computer’s name unveiled at the University of Pennsylvania in February 1946? ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer)
8. Who were the 1946 NFL Champions? Chicago Bears
9. This space project bounced radar waves off the Moon, proving that communication between Earth and outer space is possible. Name that US government project. Project Diana. Some say that it started The Space Age.
10. Who was the Pope in 1946? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
1. Who was the first African-American to win an Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress)
2. This man hosted the 1940 Oscars and went on to host it 19 times. Who was he?
3. What is the name of the 1940 American comedy-western film featuring Mae West and W.C. Fields
4. What was the highest-grossing film of 1940
5. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1940?
6. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1940?
7. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1940
8. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1940?
9. Who was the Republican Presidential Nominee in 1940?
10. This masked hero sidekick debuted in April 1940…
11. This comic book villain debuted in the fourth issue of this Superhero comic book, and he has the same initials as her girlfriend. Name that villain.
12. She made her American film debut in Down Argentine Way and was known for wearing hats made of fruit. Who was she?
13. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1940: Julian Bond, Jack Nicklaus, Richard Pryor, Danny Trejo, or Al Pacino?
14. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1940?
15. Name the best-selling female fiction author of all time.
16. Released in late 1939, what was Agatha Christie’s best-selling book
17. How many people lived in the United States in 1940?
18. How many people lived in the World in 1940?
19. On May 10, 1940, Winston Churchill became the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister. Who held the position before Mr. Churchill?
20. Who was the President of the United States in 1940?
21. What comedy group filmed the first Hollywood parody of Adolf Hitler and the Nazis? The Three Stooges (in You Nazty Spy!)
22. Nine months later, Charlie Chaplin also wrote, directed, and starred in his parody of Nazi Germany. Name that film
23. This comic book character was seen punching Adolph Hitler in the face on the cover of his first issue before the United States entered World War 2
24. Two brothers, Richard and Maurice, opened this fast food in San Bernadino, California, in 1940…
25. What World War II event occurred between 26 May and 4 June 1940?
26. What annual South Dakota Rally began in 1940?
27. Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour starred in 7 “Road To…” films. Name the first one
28. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1940?
29. In 1940, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
30. What is the United States’ first long-distance controlled-access highway?
31. What cartoon duo made their debut in Puss Gets the Boot?
32. The spring of 1940 introduced American women to this type of hosiery…
33. This 1940 gameshow debuted on NBC radio but was periodically shown on television from 1950 through 1988..
34. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1940?
35. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1940?
36. Who won the 1940 World Series?
37. Now considered a classic, this Disney Film took a decade to become profitable.
38. This 1940 Disney film won the Academy Awards for Best Original Song and Best Original Score…
39. Who made Pinocchio a ‘real boy’?
40. Before Bugs Bunny was officially named, this hat-wearing cohort was named first. Name that toon.
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What was Elmer Fudd’s prior nickname for several cartoons from 1937 through 1940?
2. Who was the Pope in 1940?
3. This cartoon bird debuted in 1940’s Knock Knock, but wasn’t named until 1941. Who is he?
4. Who were the 1940 NFL Champions?
5. In Lascaux, France, some 17,000-year-old evidence of human handiwork was found. What were they?
6. Who was the American Vice-President in 1940?
7. A time capsule at Oglethorpe University, Georgia, was sealed shut and projected to open in 8113 CE. What was it named?
8. Who said, “I have nothing to offer you but blood, toil, tears, and sweat.”?
9. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1940?
10. The cartoon duo Tom and Jerry debuted with other names; what were their original names?
The Answers:
40 Trivia Answers for 1940 History
1. Who was the first African-American to win an Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress) Hattie McDaniel, for Gone With The Wind.
2. This man hosted the 1940 Oscars and went on to host it 19 times. Who was he? Bob Hope
3. What is the name of the 1940 American comedy-western film featuring Mae West and W.C. Fields? My Little Chickadee
4. What was the highest-grossing film of 1940? Boom Town
5. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1940? 8 cents
6. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1940? 51 cents
7. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1940? How Green Was My Valley by Richard Llewellyn
8. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1940? (tie) Frenesi by Artie Shaw, OR In The Mood by Glenn Miller, OR I’ll Never Smile Again by Tommy Dorsey
9. Who was the Republican Presidential Nominee in 1940? Wendell Willkie
10. This masked hero sidekick debuted in April 1940… Robin the Boy Wonder, in Detective Comics #38.
11. This comic book villain debuted in the fourth issue of this Superhero comic book, and he has the same initials as her girlfriend. Name that villain. Lex Luthor (1st appearance in Superman #4)
12. She made her American film debut in Down Argentine Way and was known for wearing hats made of fruit. Who was she? Carmen Miranda (February 9, 1909 – August 5, 1955)
13. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1940: Julian Bond, Jack Nicklaus, Richard Pryor, Danny Trejo, or Al Pacino? Danny Trejo (born May 16, 1944)
14. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1940? In 1940, The New York Rangers won over the Toronto Maple Leafs (4 games to 2)
15. Name the best-selling female fiction author of all time. Agatha Christie
16. Released in late 1939, what was Agatha Christie’s best-selling book? And Then There Were None
17. How many people lived in the United States in 1940? The population was an estimated 131,669,275 people.
18. How many people lived in the World in 1940? The estimated world population in 1940 was 2,300,000,000 people.
19. On May 10, 1940, Winston Churchill became the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister. Who held the position before Mr. Churchill? Neville Chamberlain
20. Who was the President of the United States in 1940? Franklin D. Roosevelt (March 4, 1933 – April 12, 1945)
21. What comedy group filmed the first Hollywood parody of Adolf Hitler and the Nazis? The Three Stooges (in You Nazty Spy!)
22. Nine months later, Charlie Chaplin also wrote, directed and starred in his parody of Nazi Germany. Name that film. The Great Dictator
23. This comic book character was seen punching Adolph Hitler in the face on the cover of his first issue before the United States entered World War 2. Captain America
24. Two brothers, Richard and Maurice, opened this fast food in San Bernadino, California in 1940… McDonald’s. Ray Kroc bought it from them in 1955.
25. What World War II event occurred between 26 May and 4 June 1940? The Dunkirk Evacuation (code-named Operation Dynamo, aka the Miracle of Dunkirk)
26. What annual South Dakota Rally began in 1940? Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
27. Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour starred in 7 “Road To…” films. Name the first one. Road to Singapore
28. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1940? 33 cents
29. In 1940, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 60.8 years, Women – 65.2 years.
30. What is the United States’ first long-distance controlled-access highway? The Pennsylvania Turnpike
31. What cartoon duo made their debut in Puss Gets the Boot? Tom & Jerry (although not officially named until 1941).
32. The spring of 1940 introduced American women to this type of hosiery… Nylon stockings
33. This 1940 gameshow debuted on NBC radio but was periodically shown on television from 1950 through 1988… Truth or Consequences
34. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1940? $0.18 per gallon
35. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1940? Winston Churchill
36. Who won the 1940 World Series? In 1940, The Cincinnati Reds won, beating the Detroit Tigers (4 games to 3)
37. Now considered a classic, this Disney Film took a decade to become profitable. Fantasia
38. This 1940 Disney film won the Academy Awards for Best Original Song and Best Original Score… Pinocchio
39. Who made Pinocchio a ‘real boy’? The Blue Fairy (aka Fairy with Turquoise Hair)
40. Before Bugs Bunny was officially named, this hat-wearing cohort was named first. Name that toon. Elmer Fudd
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What was Elmer Fudd’s prior nickname for several cartoons from 1937 through 1940? Egghead
2. Who was the Pope in 1940? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
3. This cartoon bird debuted in 1940’s Knock Knock, but wasn’t named until 1941. Who is he? Woody Woodpecker
4. Who were the 1940 NFL Champions? Chicago Bears
5. In Lascaux, France, some 17,000-year-old evidence of human handiwork was found. What were they? The Lascaux cave paintings
6. Who was the American Vice-President in 1940? John Garner (March 4, 1933 – January 20, 1941)
7. A time capsule at Oglethorpe University, Georgia, was sealed shut and projected to open in 8113 CE. What was it named? The Crypt of Civilization
8. Who said, “I have nothing to offer you but blood, toil, tears, and sweat.”? Winston Churchill
9. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1940? Gallahadion
10. The cartoon duo Tom and Jerry debuted with other names; what were their original names? Jasper and Jinx
1. What was Muhammed Ali’s name when he was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 17, 1942?
2. How many people lived in the United States in 1942?
3. This 1942 film was based on an unproduced stage play, Everybody Comes to Rick’s. Name that film
4. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1942?
5. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1942?
6. What was the Biggest Song of 1942 that was NOT White Christmas?
7. Over 1,400 AA shells are fired at an unidentified object, or objects, in the skies over Los Angeles overnight on February 25, 1942. It may have been nothing at all. What was this event (or non-event) called?
8. Who was the President of the United States in 1942?
9. What was the average movie theater ticket price in 1942 to the nearest dime?
10. 1942 Catchphrase: Who said, “Here’s looking at you, kid”?
11. What was the highest-grossing film of 1942
12. The sports-drama film The Pride of the Yankees, starring Gary Cooper, was about what baseball legend?
13. Born in 1942, this singer/songwriter co-wrote hits like Touch of Grey, Alabama Getaway, and Uncle John’s Band. Name that rock star.
14. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1942?
15. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1942?
16. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1942?
17. The comic character Archie Andrews first appeared in Pep Comics, and he had a very old car (a jalopy). What type of car did Archie drive in 1942?
18. This “Road to…” movie, starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour, involved going into the African continent. What is the name of this 1942 film?
19. This hydroelectric power dam began operating in Washington state in 1942…
20. In 1942, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
21. This 1942 film introduced the classic song White Christmas.
22. Based on a 1923 book by Austrian author and hunter Felix Salten, the adaptation was a big hit for Disney Studios. Name that film.
23. After an Allied victory, who said, “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.”?
24. The Little Golden Books book series includes the best-selling hardcover book for children of all time, with over 15 million copies sold. Name that children’s book.
25. Launched in Philadelphia, this was the only US battleship that provided gunfire support during the Vietnam War.
26. Founded in 1942, what was the women’s branch of the United States Navy Reserve better known as? It is an acronym.
27. How old was movie star Clark Gable, who entered an Army recruiting station in Los Angeles and enlisted as a private?
28. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1942?
29. This comic book villain was once an upstanding District Attorney, Harvey Dent. He became an enemy of Batman in Detective Comics number 66. Who is this coin-flipping bad guy?
30. Although later a long-running comic strip by Walt Kelly, this character debuted in Animal Comics issue #1
31. Who won the 1942 World Series?
32. Yankee Doodle Dandy is an American biographical musical film about who? He is known as “The Man Who Owned Broadway”
33. Born in 1942, this Rolling Stone member was also a member of the ’27 Club’ – who was he?
34. We knew him as Mighty Mouse when he was there to save the day in 1944. But what was his name when he first appeared in 1942’s Mouse of Tomorrow?
35. On her 13th birthday, June 12, 1942. This young woman began writing in her diary. Who was she?
36. The German A-4 rocket was better known as what?
37. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1942?
38. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1942: Peter Tork, Aretha Franklin, Roger Daltrey, Leon Russel, or Stephen Hawking?
39. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1942?
40. What was the name of the research and development undertaken during World War II that produced the first nuclear weapons for the United States?
41. This Hollywood star was granted a US patent (#2,292,387) for a frequency-hopping system for radio-controlled torpedoes. It’s also the basis for Wi-Fi. Name that actress.
42. This American broadcast has been going on since 1942. Some people consider it American propaganda. What is it?
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. In what language was the first Voice of America broadcast?
2. What was the magazine’s name produced exclusively for members serving in the US military through World War II?
3. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1942?
4. This author wrote a book released in 1942 about a series of letters to a nephew named Wormwood. Name the author and book.
5. In Boston, Massachusettes, this was the deadliest nightclub fire in history, claiming a total of 492 lives. What was the name of that fire?
6. Who was the Pope in 1942?
7. The United States Coast Guard Women’s Reserve is known as the SPARS. S.P.A.R.S. What does that acronym stand for?
8. This Hollywood star died in a plane crash while returning from a war bond tour. She was Clark Gable’s wife. Who was she?
9. Who was the American Vice-President in 1942?
10. Who were the 1942 NFL Champions?
The Answers:
42 Trivia Answers for 1942 History
1. What was Muhammed Ali’s name when he was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 17, 1942? Cassius Clay (Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., died June 3, 2016)
2. How many people lived in the United States in 1942? The population was an estimated 134,859,553 people.
3. This 1942 film was based on an unproduced stage play, Everybody Comes to Rick’s. Name that film. Casablanca
4. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1942? In 1942, The Toronto Maple Leafs won over the Detroit Red Wings (4 games to 3)
5. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1942? White Christmas by Bing Crosby
6. What was the Biggest Song of 1942 that was NOT White Christmas? Moonlight Cocktail by Glenn Miller
7. Over 1,400 AA shells are fired at an unidentified object, or objects, in the skies over Los Angeles overnight on February 25, 1942. It may have been nothing at all. What was this event (or non-event) called? The Battle of Los Angeles.
8. Who was the President of the United States in 1942? Franklin D. Roosevelt (March 4, 1933 – April 12, 1945)
9. What was the average movie theater ticket price in 1942 to the nearest dime? 30 cents
10. 1942 Catchphrase: Who said, “Here’s looking at you, kid”? Rick Blaine on Casablanca
11. What was the highest-grossing film of 1942? Mrs. Miniver
12. The sports-drama film The Pride of the Yankees, starring Gary Cooper, was about what baseball legend? Lou Gehrig
13. Born in 1942, this singer/songwriter co-wrote hits like Touch of Grey, Alabama Getaway, and Uncle John’s Band. Name that rock star. Jerry Garcia (August 1, 1942 – August 9, 1995)
14. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1942? The Song of Bernadette by Franz Werfel
15. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1942? 8 cents
16. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1942? 60 cents
17. The comic character Archie Andrews first appeared in Pep Comics, and he had a very old car (a jalopy). What type of car did Archie drive in 1942? He owned a 1916 Ford Model T jalopy called “Betsy.” Some later comics said it was a Ford Model A.
18. This “Road to…” movie, starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour, involved going into the African continent. What is the name of this 1942 film? Road to Morocco
19. This hydroelectric power dam began operating in Washington state in 1942… The Grand Coulee Dam
20. In 1942, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 64.7 years, Women – 67.9 years.
21. This 1942 film introduced the classic song White Christmas. Holiday Inn, starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire.
22. Based on a 1923 book by Austrian author and hunter Felix Salten, the adaptation was a big hit for Disney Studios. Name that film. Bambi
23. After an Allied victory, who said, “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.”? Winston Churchill
24. The Little Golden Books book series includes the best-selling hardcover book for children of all time, with over 15 million copies sold. Name that children’s book. The Poky Little Puppy, written by Janette Sebring Lowrey and illustrated by Gustaf Tenggren.
25. Launched in Philadelphia, this was the only US battleship that provided gunfire support during the Vietnam War. The USS New Jersey (BB-62)
26. Founded in 1942, what was the women’s branch of the United States Navy Reserve better known as? It is an acronym. WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service)
27. How old was movie star Clark Gable, who entered an Army recruiting station in Los Angeles and enlisted as a private? 41 years old. During World War II, he spent two years as an aerial cameraman and bomber gunner in Europe.
28. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1942? $0.20 per gallon
29. This comic book villain was once an upstanding District Attorney, Harvey Dent. He became an enemy of Batman in Detective Comics number 66. Who is this coin-flipping bad guy? Two-Face
30. Although later a long-running comic strip by Walt Kelly, this character debuted in Animal Comics issue #1 Pogo the Possum
31. Who won the 1942 World Series? In 1942, The St. Louis Cardinals won, beating the New York Yankees (4 games to 1)
32. Yankee Doodle Dandy is an American biographical musical film about who? He is known as “The Man Who Owned Broadway” George M. Cohen
33. Born in 1942, this Rolling Stone member was also a member of the ’27 Club’ – who was he? Brian Jones ( February 28, 1942 – July 3, 1969). The 27 Club is any celebrity who died at the age of 27.
34. We knew him as Mighty Mouse when he was there to save the day in 1944. But what was his name when he first appeared in 1942’s Mouse of Tomorrow? Super Mouse
35. On her 13th birthday, June 12, 1942. This young woman began writing in her diary. Who was she? Anne Frank
36. The German A-4 rocket was better known as what? The V-2
37. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1942? Joseph Stalin
38. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1942: Peter Tork, Aretha Franklin, Roger Daltrey, Leon Russel, or Stephen Hawking? Roger Daltrey (born March 1, 1944)
39. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1942? 48 cents
40. What was the name of the research and development undertaken during World War II that produced the first nuclear weapons for the United States? The Manhattan Project
41. This Hollywood star was granted a US patent (#2,292,387) for a frequency-hopping system for radio-controlled torpedoes. It’s also the basis for Wi-Fi. Name that actress. Hedy Lamarr
42. This American broadcast has been going on since 1942. Some people consider it American propaganda. What is it? Voice of America (VOA)
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. In what language was the first Voice of America broadcast? German
2. What was the magazine’s name produced exclusively for members serving in the US military through World War II? Yank, the Army Weekly
3. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1942? Shut Out
4. This author wrote a book released in 1942 about a series of letters to a nephew named Wormwood. Name the author and book. The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
5. In Boston, Massachusettes, this was the deadliest nightclub fire in history, claiming a total of 492 lives. What was the name of that fire? The Cocoanut Grove Fire
6. Who was the Pope in 1942? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
7. The United States Coast Guard Women’s Reserve is known as the SPARS. S.P.A.R.S. What does that acronym stand for? “Semper Paratus, Always Ready!”
8. This Hollywood star died in a plane crash while returning from a war bond tour. She was Clark Gable’s wife. Who was she? Carol Lombard (October 6, 1908 – January 16, 1942)
9. Who was the American Vice-President in 1942? Henry A. Wallace (January 20, 1941 – January 20, 1945)
10. Who were the 1942 NFL Champions? Washington Redskins
1. Who was the President of the United States in 1941?
2. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1941?
3. To the nearest dime, what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1941?
4. On July 1, 1941, what two television networks began broadcasting in New York City?
5. What was the date that US President Franklin Roosevelt said, “which will live in infamy the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.”
6. What did Germany and Italy do on December 11, 1941?
7. Was this quasi-biographical film based on real-life newspapermen William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer? Name this film.
8. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1941?
9. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1941?
10. How many people lived in the United States in 1941?
11. What was the highest-grossing film of 1941?
12. What practice did the 13th Academy Awards start after a fiasco the prior year with the Los Angeles Times newspaper?
13. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1941?
14. In 1941, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
15. Who was the subject of a popular World War 2 pinup featuring the actress wearing a nightgown?
16. True or False? Joseph Stalin decreed that every Soviet soldier should receive 100 grams (about 3.5 ounces) of vodka daily.
17. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1941
18. What was the title of the second “Road To…” film, starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour?
19. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is also referred to as an MLB legend’s disease. Name that New York Yankee.
20. Who won the 1941 World Series?
21. Red Sox MLB player Ted Williams set an all-time baseball batting record on the last day of the 1941 season. What record did he set?
22. What were the four freedoms mentioned in Franklin Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms speech?
23. The first American television station outside New York aired in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Name that station.
24. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1941?
25. Throughout 1941 and 1945, the United States built over 2,700 of this class of cargo ship. Name that class of ships.
26. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1941?
27. What was the name of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht from 1936 until he died in 1945?
28. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1941: Judy Blume, Joan Baez, David Ruffin, or Neil Diamond?
29. This baseball player is the all-time MLB player with the most hits, games played, and at-bats. Born in 1941, who is he?
30. What was Pete Rose’s nickname?
31. A New York Yankee, Joe DiMaggio, began a record-breaking streak on May 15, 1941, that continued until July 16th. What record does he hold for that period?
32. This group began entertaining the United States Armed Services on February 4, 1941. What is its name?
33. This superhero, first appearing in Police Comics #1, was among the first to be a wise-cracking super-crimefighter.
34. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1941?
35. This radio program started in Helena, Arkansas, and is the longest-running daily American radio broadcast in history. What is it?
36. What Marx Brothers film featured Grouch Marx as Wolf J. Flywheel?
37. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1941?
38. Plutonium was chemically identified in 1941. What is plutonium’s Atomic Number?
39. What Andrews Sisters hit was revived by Bette Midler in 1973?
40. Based on Dashiell Hammett’s 1930 book, this 1941 film noir starred Humphrey Bogart and Mary Aster.
41. What 1941 film was remade as Heaven Can Wait in 1978, starring Warren Beatty, Buck Henry, and Julie Christie?
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What was Virginia Woolf’s final novel, published shortly after her death?
2. This comic book publisher’s first issue was an adaptation of The Three Musketeers, and they published more stories through 1969. Name that long-running comic book company.
3. Who was the American Vice-President in 1941?
4. Who were the 1941 NFL Champions?
5. Six-year-old Elaine Esposito began a world medical record on August 6, 1941. What record did she hold?
6. What is the National Hockey League record for shots on goal in a single game?
7. Cheerios was released by General Mills by another name in 1941. What were they called?
8. What was the name of the Cartoon where Bugs Bunny was first named?
9. Who was the Pope in 1941?
10. On January 13, 1941, All persons born in what nearby American territory were declared U.S. citizens by birth, through U.S. federal law?
The Answers:
41 Trivia Answers for 1941 History
1. Who was the President of the United States in 1941? Franklin D. Roosevelt (March 4, 1933 – April 12, 1945)
2. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1941? Amapola (Pretty Little Poppy) by Jimmy Dorsey
3. To the nearest dime, what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1941? 30 cents
4. On July 1, 1941, what two television networks began broadcasting in New York City? CBS and NBC.
5. What was the date that US President Franklin Roosevelt said, “which will live in infamy the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.” December 7, 1941
6. What did Germany and Italy do on December 11, 1941? They both declared war on The United States.
7. Was this quasi-biographical film based on real-life newspapermen William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer? Name this film. Citizen Kane
8. How much did a Gallon of Milk cost in 1941? 54 cents
9. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1941? 8 cents
10. How many people lived in the United States in 1941? The population was an estimated 133,402,471 people.
11. What was the highest-grossing film of 1941? Sergeant York
12. What practice did the 13th Academy Awards start after a fiasco the prior year with the Los Angeles Times newspaper? They placed the winners’ names in envelopes. In 1940, the L.A. Times published a list of winners before they were announced.
13. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1941? In 1941, The Boston Bruins won over the Detroit Red Wings (4 games to 0)
14. In 1941, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 63.1 years, Women – 66.8 years.
15. Who was the subject of a popular World War 2 pinup featuring the actress wearing a nightgown? Rita Hayworth
16. True or False? Joseph Stalin decreed that every Soviet soldier should receive 100 grams (about 3.5 ounces) of vodka per day. True
17. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1941? The Keys of the Kingdom by A.J. Cronin
18. What was the title of the second “Road To…” film, starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour? Road to Zanzibar
19. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is also referred to as an MLB legend’s disease. Name that New York Yankee. Lou Gehrig’s disease (June 19, 1903 – June 2, 1941)
20. Who won the 1941 World Series? In 1941, The New York Yankees won, beating the Brooklyn Dodgers (4 games to 1)
21. Red Sox MLB player Ted Williams set an all-time baseball batting record o the last day of the 1941 season. What record did he set? He the season with a batting average of .4057 (rounded up to 406)
22. What were the four freedoms mentioned in Franklin Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms speech? Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want and freedom from fear.
23. The first American television station outside New York aired in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Name that station. KYW-TV (WPTZ at the time, an NBC affiliate)
24. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1941? Whirlaway
25. Throughout 1941 and 1945, the United States built over 2,700 of this class of cargo ship. Name that class of ships. Liberty Ships
26. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1941? Franklin D. Roosevelt
27. What was the name of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht from 1936 until he died in 1945? USS Potomac (AG-25)
28. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1941: Judy Blume, Joan Baez, David Ruffin, or Neil Diamond? Judy Blume (born February 12, 1938)
29. This baseball player is the all-time MLB player with the most hits, games played, and at-bats. Born in 1941, who is he? Pete Rose (born April 14, 1941)
30. What was Pete Rose’s nickname? Charlie Hustle
31. A New York Yankee, Joe DiMaggio, began a record-breaking streak on May 15, 1941, that continued until July 16th. What record does he hold for that period? A 56-game hitting streak. (the record still stands)
32. This group began entertaining the United States Armed Services on February 4, 1941. What is its name? USO (United Service Organizations)
33. This superhero, first appearing in Police Comics #1, was among the first to be a wise-cracking super-crimefighter. Plastic Man
34. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1941? $0.19 per gallon
35. This radio program started in Helena, Arkansas, and is the longest-running daily American radio broadcast in history. What is it? King Biscuit Time, a blues radio show
36. What Marx Brothers film featured Grouch Marx as Wolf J. Flywheel? The Big Store
37. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1941? 40 cents
38. Plutonium was chemically identified in 1941. What is plutonium’s Atomic Number? Plutonium’s atomic number is 94.
39. What Andrews Sisters hit was revived by Bette Midler in 1973? Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy
40. Based on Dashiell Hammett’s 1930 book, this 1941 film noir starred Humphrey Bogart and Mary Aster. The Maltese Falcon
41. What 1941 film was remade as Heaven Can Wait in 1978, starring Warren Beatty, Buck Henry, and Julie Christie? Her Comes Mr. Jordan
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What was Virginia Woolf’s final novel, published shortly after her death? Between the Acts
2. This comic book publisher’s first issue was an adaptation of The Three Musketeers, and they published more stories through 1969. Name that long-running comic book company. Classic Comics
3. Who was the American Vice-President in 1941? John Garner (March 4, 1933 – January 20, 1941) and Henry A. Wallace (January 20, 1941 – January 20, 1945)
4. Who were the 1941 NFL Champions? Chicago Bears
5. Six-year-old Elaine Esposito began a world medical record on August 6, 1941. What record did she hold? The longest person in a coma – 37 years. She was anesthetized for an appendectomy and never woke up; she died in 1978.
6. What is the National Hockey League record for shots on goal in a single game? The Boston Bruins took 83 shots on goal during a 3-2 win over the Chicago Black Hawks on March 4, 1941. This led to another NHL record in that game – Black Hawk goaltender Sam LoPresti had 80 saves.
7. Cheerios was released by General Mills by another name in 1941. What were they called? CheeriOats. They were renamed Cheerios in 1945.
8. What was the name of the Cartoon where Bugs Bunny was first named? Elmer’s Pet Rabbit
9. Who was the Pope in 1941? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
10. On January 13, 1941, All persons born in what nearby American territory were declared U.S. citizens by birth, through U.S. federal law? Puerto Rico
1. This was the first major crossover release starring two monster characters from established films. Name the characters or film. Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman
2. During World War II, the National Football League merged the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers into a single franchise. What was the name of that football team? The Steagles (also Phil-Pitt)
3. This Broadway show opened on March 31, 1943, and ran through 1948—it became the longest-running musical play at that time. Name that show. Oklahoma!
4. In 1943, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 62.4 years, Women – 64.4 years.
5. Who was the President of the United States in 1943? Franklin D. Roosevelt (March 4, 1933 – April 12, 1945)
6. This company was founded in 1943 by a 17-year-old Swedish carpenter named Ingvar Kamprad. Name his company. IKEA
7. She was a song in 1942 and became a poster in 1943. Who was she? Rosie the Riveter.
8. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1943 to the nearest dime? 30 cents
9. NBC had two radio networks: the Blue Network and the Red Network. The Red Network was sold and became what radio, and later television, network? ABC (American Broadcasting Company)
10. Born in 1943, this author wrote the second-best-selling book series, After Harry Potter. Name the author and his book series. Goosebumps by R.L. Stine
11. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1943? The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas
12. Lassie’s first movie was released in October of 1943. What was it called? Lassie Come Home
13. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1943? I’ve Heard That Song Before by Harry James
14. What was the highest-grossing film of 1943? This is the Army
15. How many people lived in the United States in 1943? The population was an estimated 136,739,353 people.
17. The third Dracula film was released through Universal Pictures and starred Lon Chaney Jr as Count Alucard. Name that horror sequel Son of Dracula
18. Mexican-American youths and some members of the American military have a bit of a tussle in early June in East Los Angeles. What was that fight called? The Zoot Suit Riots
19. Introduced in 1943, Kryptonite can injure Superman. Was it first introduced in his comic books, cartoons, or radio show? The Adventures of Superman radio show. It gave a reason for him not to appear while his actor took a vacation.
20. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1943? In 1943, The Detroit Red Wings won over the Boston Bruins (4 games to 0)
21. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1943? Count Fleet
22. Ignacio Anaya created this snack in Mexico, near the Texas border. Nachos
23. This metal toy was introduced at a Gimbels department store and inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame in 2000. Later, it had its own commercial jingle. The Slinky
24. This US Navy mystery involved the USS Eldridge, the Philadelphia Navy Shipyard, invisibility, and teleportation. Although probably a hoax, what is the name of the incident? The Philadelphia Experiment
25. What is the all-time best-selling book originally written in French? The Little Prince (by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)
26. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1943? $0.21 per gallon
27. This caped comic book hero appeared in both newspaper comic strips and a 15-part movie serial in 1943. Name that crimefighter. Batman (and Robin)
28. It’s one of America’s most collectible coins and less than a few dozen were produced in 1943. Name that coin. 1943 Copper Penny (Most were made of steel)
29. Featuring Howard Roark, his 1943 novel by Ayn Rand was her first bestseller. The Fountainhead
30. This building was built in Washington, DC, between 1939 and 1943 in honor of an American president. Name that building. Jefferson Memorial
31. Along with Emile Gagnan, who invented the Aqua-lung? Jacques Cousteau
32. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1943? 57 cents
33. Named after a trombone-like instrument, this was designed as an anti-tank weapon. Name that weapon. Bazooka
34. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1943: John Denver, Keith Richards, Jim Morrison, Marvin Gaye Toni Basil? Marvin Gaye (April 2, 1939 – April 1, 1984)
35. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1943? George Marshall
36. In the Warner Brothers cartoon Falling Hare, it didn’t happen very often, but who gets the best of Bugs Bunny? A Gremlin.
37. Who was NOT at the WWII: Casablanca Conference: Winston Churchill, Joseph Stalin, Charles de Gaulle, or Franklin D. Roosevelt? Joseph Stalin (he was focused on the Battle of Stalingrad)
38. What is the world’s largest office building? The Pentagon (completed in 1943)
39. After this scientist died on January 7, 1943, the Federal Bureau of Investigation took all of his notes. Name that scientist. Nikola Tesla (July 10, 1856 – January 7, 1943)
40. The city of Spearfish had a temperature fluctuation one morning of 49 degrees, from minus 4 to 45 degrees on January 22, 1943, within 2 minutes! In what state is Spearfish located? Hint: Rapid City had a similar rise that same day. South Dakota
41. Who won the 1943 World Series? In 1943, The New York Yankees won, beating the St. Louis Cardinals (4 games to 1)
42. What was the boat’s name under the command of future President John F. Kennedy’s boat? PT-109
43. Born in 1943, this man co-founded Atari and Chuck-E-Cheese. Name him. Nolan Bushnell
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. Minister George Fox and Clark Poling, Roman Catholic priest John Washington, and Rabbi Alexander Goode all gave up their life jackets for servicemen and died at sea. What is the nickname for these men? The Four Chaplains
2. What was the codename for World War II’s Battle of Normandy? Operation Overlord.
3. Who were the 1943 NFL Champions? Chicago Bears
4. In 1943, Mexican farmer Dionisio Pulido noticed a bump in his yard, which grew to 400 feet tall within a week. What was that bump in his yard? A Volcano.
5. Who was the American Vice-President in 1943? Henry A. Wallace (January 20, 1941 – January 20, 1945)
6. What government agency worked with Hollywood in censoring and propaganda during World War II? (United States) Office of War Information
7. Name the star, an actor and singer, whose 20-room Hollywood mansion was destroyed by a fire while his family was taking down the Christmas tree.Bing Crosby
8. Who was the Pope in 1943? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
9. Born this year, this actress was killed by the “Manson family” in 1969. Name that actress. Sharon Tate
10. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1943? Count Fleet
The Answers:
43 Trivia Answers for 1943 History
1. This was the first major crossover release starring two monster characters from established films. Name the characters or film. Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman
2. During World War II, the National Football League merged the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers into a single franchise. What was the name of that football team? The Steagles (also Phil-Pitt)
3. This Broadway show opened on March 31, 1943, and ran through 1948—it became the longest-running musical play at that time. Name that show. Oklahoma!
4. In 1943, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 62.4 years, Women – 64.4 years.
5. Who was the President of the United States in 1943? Franklin D. Roosevelt (March 4, 1933 – April 12, 1945)
6. This company was founded in 1943 by a 17-year-old Swedish carpenter named Ingvar Kamprad. Name his company. IKEA
7. She was a song in 1942 and became a poster in 1943. Who was she? Rosie the Riveter.
8. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1943 to the nearest dime? 30 cents
9. NBC had two radio networks: the Blue Network and the Red Network. The Red Network was sold and became what radio, and later television, network? ABC (American Broadcasting Company)
10. Born in 1943, this author wrote the second-best-selling book series, After Harry Potter. Name the author and his book series. Goosebumps by R.L. Stine
11. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1943? The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas
12. Lassie’s first movie was released in October of 1943. What was it called? Lassie Come Home
13. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1943? I’ve Heard That Song Before by Harry James
14. What was the highest-grossing film of 1943? This is the Army
15. How many people lived in the United States in 1943? The population was an estimated 136,739,353 people.
16. Name the Italian leader arrested on July 25, 1943… Benito Mussolini
17. The third Dracula film was released through Universal Pictures and starred Lon Chaney Jr as Count Alucard. Name that horror sequel Son of Dracula
18. Mexican-American youths and some members of the American military have a bit of a tussle in early June in East Los Angeles. What was that fight called? The Zoot Suit Riots
19. Introduced in 1943, Kryptonite can injure Superman. Was it first introduced in his comic books, cartoons, or radio show? The Adventures of Superman radio show. It gave a reason for him not to appear while his actor took a vacation.
20. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1943? In 1943, The Detroit Red Wings won over the Boston Bruins (4 games to 0)
21. Who won the US Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1943? Count Fleet
22. Ignacio Anaya created this snack in Mexico, near the Texas border. Nachos
23. This metal toy was introduced at a Gimbels department store and inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame in 2000. Later, it had its own commercial jingle. The Slinky
24. This US Navy mystery involved the USS Eldridge, the Philadelphia Navy Shipyard, invisibility, and teleportation. Although probably a hoax, what is the name of the incident? The Philadelphia Experiment
25. What is the all-time best-selling book originally written in French? The Little Prince (by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)
26. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1943? $0.21 per gallon
27. This caped comic book hero appeared in both newspaper comic strips and a 15-part movie serial in 1943. Name that crimefighter. Batman (and Robin)
28. It’s one of America’s most collectible coins and less than a few dozen were produced in 1943. Name that coin. 1943 Copper Penny (Most were made of steel)
29. Featuring Howard Roark, his 1943 novel by Ayn Rand was her first bestseller. The Fountainhead
30. This building was built in Washington, DC, between 1939 and 1943 in honor of an American president. Name that building. Jefferson Memorial
31. Along with Emile Gagnan, who invented the Aqua-lung? Jacques Cousteau
32. How much did a dozen eggs cost in 1943? 57 cents
33. Named after a trombone-like instrument, this was designed as an anti-tank weapon. Name that weapon. Bazooka
34. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1943: John Denver, Keith Richards, Jim Morrison, Marvin Gaye Toni Basil? Marvin Gaye (April 2, 1939 – April 1, 1984)
35. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1943? George Marshall
36. In the Warner Brothers cartoon Falling Hare, it didn’t happen very often, but who gets the best of Bugs Bunny? A Gremlin.
37. Who was NOT at the WWII: Casablanca Conference: Winston Churchill, Joseph Stalin, Charles de Gaulle, or Franklin D. Roosevelt? Joseph Stalin (he was focused on the Battle of Stalingrad)
38. What is the world’s largest office building? The Pentagon (completed in 1943)
39. After this scientist died on January 7, 1943, the Federal Bureau of Investigation took all of his notes. Name that scientist. Nikola Tesla (July 10, 1856 – January 7, 1943)
40. The city of Spearfish had a temperature fluctuation one morning of 49 degrees, from minus 4 to 45 degrees on January 22, 1943, within 2 minutes! In what state is Spearfish located? Hint: Rapid City had a similar rise that same day. South Dakota
41. Who won the 1943 World Series? In 1943, The New York Yankees won, beating the St. Louis Cardinals (4 games to 1)
42. What was the boat’s name under the command of future President John F. Kennedy’s boat? PT-109
43. Born in 1943, this man co-founded Atari and Chuck-E-Cheese. Name him. Nolan Bushnell
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. Minister George Fox and Clark Poling, Roman Catholic priest John Washington, and Rabbi Alexander Goode all gave up their life jackets for servicemen and died at sea. What is the nickname for these men? The Four Chaplains
2. What was the codename for World War II’s Battle of Normandy? Operation Overlord.
3. Who were the 1943 NFL Champions? Chicago Bears
4. In 1943, Mexican farmer Dionisio Pulido noticed a bump in his yard, which grew to 400 feet tall within a week. What was that bump in his yard? A Volcano.
5. Who was the American Vice-President in 1943? Henry A. Wallace (January 20, 1941 – January 20, 1945)
6. What government agency worked with Hollywood in censoring and propaganda during World War II? (United States) Office of War Information
7. Name the star, an actor and singer, whose 20-room Hollywood mansion was destroyed by a fire while his family was taking down the Christmas tree.Bing Crosby
8. Who was the Pope in 1943? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
9. Born this year, this actress was killed by the “Manson family” in 1969. Name that actress. Sharon Tate
10. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1943? Count Fleet
Novelty songs are different from most popular songs in that they usually have an invisible expiration date like 1999 or Pac-Man Fever with the exception of Christmas Songs and to a lesser extent, Halloween Songs. Pac-Man Fever really mattered in the early 1980s, but it has long since lost its purpose. Sometimes you can’t tell the difference between a novelty song and an odd pop song written on purpose. Songs like 1999 by Prince, Angie Baby by Helen Reddy, 1985 by Bowling For Soup and Who Let The Dogs Out by the Baha Men come to mind.
Songs like Lindbergh (The Eagle of the U.S.A.) and Lucky Lindy (both 1927) celebrated Charles Lindbergh’s historic non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Even Lorne Green (TV’s Bonanza’s Ben Cartwright) tried to financially horn in on the Beatles’ coming, with his tribute to Ringo, in 1964. Of course, not all novelty tunes were about the world around them. Some were very experimental. Richard “Dickie” Goodman took short riffs (now called ‘samples’) from then-current pop songs to answer by his intrepid, fast-talking reporter/announcer. His Mr. Jaws was a hit in 1975 and The Flying Saucer soared in 1956. Some novelty tunes are new interpretations of the classics, like Richard Cheese’s Baby Got Back, and Jessica’s Simpson’s remake of These Boots Are Made For Walking.
Youtube videos changed the game, and the most successful are targeted towards a younger audience.
Top Novelty Songs Given To Us By Youtube
1. Baby Shark – Pinkfong
2. Crazy Frog – Axel F
3. Gummy Bear
4. Gangnam Style – Psy
5. The Duck Song – Song by Bryant Oden and video by Forrest Whaley
6. It’s Raining Tacos – Parry Gripp
7. Hamster Dance – Hampton the Hamster
8. The Fox (What Does The Fox Say?) – Ylvis
9. Everything is Awesome – Tegan and Sara
10. Chocolate Rain
2000s Comedy & Novelty Songs
1. White and Nerdy – Weird Al Yankovic
2. She-Bang – William Hung
3. The Hardest Part of Breaking Up (Is Getting Back Your Stuff) – 2ge+her
4. Aaron’s Party – Aaron Carter
5. Because I Got High – Afroman
6. Tribute – Tenacious D
7. My Humps – Black-Eyed Peas
8. Chicken Noodle Soup – Young B and Webstar
9. Baby Got Back – Richard Cheese
10. Osama – Yo’ Mama – Ray Stevens
90s Comedy/ Novelty Songs
1. Amish Paradise – Weird Al Yankovic
2. The Humpty Dance – Digital Underground
3. The Thanksgiving Song – Adam Sandler
4. Smells Like Nirvana – Weird Al Yankovic
5. This Is Ponderous – 2nu
6. Deep, Deep Trouble – The Simpsons
7. Meet The Flintstones – The B.C. 52’s
8. Three Little Pigs – Green Jelly
9. Redneck Games – Jeff Foxworthy & Alan Jackson
10. Turtle Power – Partners In Kryme
80s Comedy/ Novelty Songs
Noone in the world of novelty has had the enormous success of Weird Al Yankovic. He has mocked many of the stars of the 1980s through today, including Michael Jackson, Nirvana, Eminem, Limp Biskit, Chamillionaire and others. His first breakout near-hit was Another One Rides the Bus, recorded in a bathroom for “just the right echo effect”.
1. Fat – Weird Al Yankovic
2. Curly Shuffle – The Jump In The Saddle Band
3. Shaddap You Face – Joe Dolce
4. Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life – Monty Python (Eric Idol)* * From 1979’s Life of Brian
5. Because I’m a Blonde – Julie Brown
6. Take Off – Bob & Doug McKenzie with Eddie Lee
7. Eat It – Weird Al Yankovic
8. You Look Marvelous – Billy Crystal
9.Meet The Flintstones – Bruce Springstone
10. Make My Day – T.G. Sheppard with Clint Eastwood
70s Comedy/ Novelty Songs
The Streak had its day in 1974, but by April of that year, the shortcomings of this fad, running naked through public events, were evident, as noted by film star David Niven. Practically everybody bought a C.B. radio when they heard Convoy in 1976. Of course, some Novelty tunes are timeless like Junk Food Junkie by Larry Groce and Take This Job and Shove It by Johnny Paycheck.
1. Disco Duck – Rick Dees
2. King Tut – Steve Martin
3. My Balogna – Weird Al Yankovic
4. Mr. Jaws – Dickie Goodman
5. Earache My Eye – Cheech and Chong
6. Shaving Cream – Benny Bell
7. The Topical Song – The Barron Knights
8. Junk Food Junkie – Larry Groce
9. Do You Think I’m Disco – Steve Dahl
10. Dead Skink – Loudon Wainwright III
60s Weirdest/ un-P.C. Songs
1. Maxwell’s Silver Hammer – The Beatles
2. In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida – Iron Butterfly
3. A Boy Named Sue – Johnny Cash
4. Star-Spangled Banner – Jimi Hendrix
5. If You Wanna Be Happy – Jimmy Soul
6. Surfin’ Bird – The Trashmen
7. Fire – The Crazy World of Arthur Brown
8. Tip-Toe Through the Tulips With Me – Tiny Tim
9. I Want My Baby Back – Jimmy Cross
10. My Pal Foot Foot – The Shaggs
60s Comedy/ Novelty Songs
1. They’re Coming To Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa! – Napoleon XIV
7. Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavor – Lonnie Donegan
8. Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah – Allen Sherman
9. Leader Of The Laundromat – the Detergents
10. Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport – Rolf Harris
50s Comedy/ Novelty Songs
Ross Bagdasarian, better known as David Seville, used the process of speeding up his voice to create the Halloween hit, Witch Doctor. He further refined the technique to create Alvin, Simon and Theodore, the Chipmunks. With them, he created another holiday classic The Chipmonk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late). Mad with power, he built this one-trick novelty bit into a mini-empire with a prime-time animated TV show.
1. Purple People Eater – Sheb Wolley
2. Banana Boat (Day-O) – Stan Freberg
3. Alvin’s Harmonica – The Chipmunks
4. Stranded In The Jungle – The Cadets (or The Jayhawks)
5. The Naughty Lady Of Shady Lane – The Ames Brothers
6. The Flying Saucer – Buchanan & Goodman
7. The Thing – Phil Harris
8. What It Was, Was Football – Andy Griffith
9. Uh! Oh! – The Nutty Squirrels
10. Nuttin For Christmas – cracked the top 40 in 1955 by Art Mooney & Barry Gordon, Joe Ward, Ricky Zahnd, The Fontane Sisters and Stan Freberg in 1955.
Pre-50s Comedy/ Novelty Songs
The earliest novelty song we could find was recorded in the days before CD, Cassette Tapes, even vinyl records. The Laughing Song followed up with The Whistling Coon ware recorded by ex-slave George Washington Johnson in 1891 on a cylinder. His Laughing Song was probably the highest-selling recording of the 19th century. The first-ever actually-recorded song that we have proof of was Thomas Edison singing Mary Had A Little Lamb.
In Der Fuehrer’s Face and (There’ll Be A) Hot Time in the Town of Berlin (When the Yanks Go Marching In) meant a lot to freedom-loving American people in the 1940s.
A Chicken Ain’t Nothin But a Bird – Cab Calloway
Animal Crackers In My Soup – Shirley Temple
Bake Dat Chicken Pie – Arthur Collins and Byron Harlan
Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy – Andrews Sisters
Brother, Can You Spare A Dime? – Bing Crosby
Casey At The Bat – DeWolf Hopper
Cigarettes, Whiskey and Wild Women – Red Engle
Come Take a Trip On My Air-ship – Billy Murray
Daddy Won’t Buy Me A Bow-wow – Dan Quinn
Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two) – various
Dem Golden Slippers – Silas Leachman
Der Fuehrer’s Face – Spike Jones
Girlfriend of the Whirling Dervish – Johnny Payne
Grandfather’s Clock – Burl Ives
I Scream You Scream We All Scream For Ice Cream – Fred Waring’s Pennsylvanians
I’ll Lend You Everything I Got, Except My Wife – Bert Williams
I’m Against It – Groucho Marx
I’m Popeye, The Sailor Man – Billy Costello
Indian Love Call – Slim Whitman
Inka Dinka Doo – Jimmy Durante
Courtroom Catastrophe – Amos and Andy
Istanbul (Not Constantinople) – The Four Lads
K-K-K-Katy (The Stammering Song) – Billy Murray
Last Shot Got Him (Great Bloo-is Song) – Eddie Morton
Let’s Misbehave – Ben Bernie
Mairzy Doates – Merry Macs
Makin’ Whoopee – Eddie Cantor
Minnie The Moocher – Cab Calloway
My Own Grandpa – Lonzo and Oscar
Oh Death, Where Is Thy Sing? – Bert Williams
Shaving Cream – Benny Bell
Shoo-Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowty – Dinah Shore
Shortnin’ Bread – The Andrews Sisters
Take Me Out To The Ball Game – Billy Murray and the Haydn Quartet
The Alphabet Song – The Three Stooges
The Laughing Sing – George Washington Johnson
The Naughty Lady Of Shady Lane – The Ames Brothers
2. This film, starring Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, and Natalie Wood, won 3 Academy Awards.
3. In 1947, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
4. This player broke the modern color barrier in major league baseball when he stepped onto Ebbets Field in Brooklyn to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Name the player AND his number.
5. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1947: Art Garfunkel, Kevin Kline, Michael McKean, Richard Dreyfuss, or Albert Brooks?
6. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1947 to the nearest dime?
7. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1947?
8. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1947?
9. How much did a pound of bacon cost in 1947?
10. What was the first television station west of the Mississippi River?
11. The most famous diary in the world was first published in the Netherlands in 1947. Name that book.
12. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1947?
13. How many people lived in the United States in 1947?
14. What quiz show, hosted by Groucho Marx, premiered on ABC Radio, and later on television?
15. This Disney Character first appeared in Dell Comics Four Color #178. Hint: He is very wealthy.
16. Hurley Smith was granted a US patent (#2417786) for this clothing accessory, best known to be worn by white-collar workers and nerds.
17. Tennessee Williams’s play A Streetcar Named Desire, starring Jessica Tandy, premiered at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on Broadway. Who played Stanley Kowalski in the stage show?
18. Who was the President of the United States in 1947?
19. Starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour, the fifth “Road To…” film was released. Name that road movie
20. Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour co-starred in a 1947 romantic comedy in which Bing Crosby only made a cameo appearance. Name that film.
21. On December 27, 1947, NBC produced a cowboy and puppet-hosted TV show that ran until 1960. Based on the name of this children’s television show, what time is it?
22. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has maintained this symbol since 1947, representing the likelihood of a man-made global catastrophe.
23. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1947?
24. Which of the Axis powers was the first to regain its sovereignty with the withdrawal of Allied Troops in 1947?
25. Who won the Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award in 1947?
26. Some would say that this American Thoroughbred champion racehorse was the greatest of all time, but he died in 1947 at the age of 30. Name that horse.
27. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1947?
28. Born in 1947, Donald Brian Roeser, better known as Buck Dharma, was one of the founding members of what American rock group just a few decades later? Hint One: Biggest hit was Burnin’ For You Hint Two: It needs more cowbell
29. This good-looking gentleman was one of the original outlandish wrestling stars and first appeared on television in 1947.
30. Name the small American town best known as the location of an Alien Spaceship crash in 1947.
31. In 1947, Edwin Land demonstrated his invention to the Optical Society of America. What was his invention?
32. Starting in Chicago, this children’s show, featuring a woman and two puppets, went nationwide on NBC. Name that show.
33. Who was the American Vice-President in 1947?
34. In 1947, a moth was discovered stuck in a relay in the Harvard Mark II electromechanical computer. This was, literally, the first what?
35. Purchased in Germany, John C. Hennessy, Jr. brought what vehicle, the first in America, to the United States?
36. This popular children’s book, the second of several Margaret Wise Brown with illustrations by Clement Hurd, was published.
37. This 1947 comedy, starring Danny Kaye and Virginia Mayo, was remade in 2013 with Ben Stiller in the lead role.
38. Who won the 1947 World Series?
39. True or False? Several years after Captain America, comic book storytellers Joe Simon and Jack Kirby created the first Romance comic book, Young Romance.
40. United States Air Force test pilot Captain Chuck Yeager flew a rocket plane faster than the speed of sound. What was the name of the aircraft?
41. This theater-based annual award ceremony was first held in the Grand Ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
42. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1947?
43. Still popular today, this weekly news magazine began to be published in Hamburg, Germany
44. These ancient texts were found on the northern shore of a large salt lake in the Middle East’s West Bank.
45. This television news/interview program debuted on November 6, 1947, on NBC.
46. An aspiring actress named Elizabeth Short was murdered in Los Angeles. What nickname did the press give her murder?
47. This A-List pianist, singer-songwriter, and composer was born on March 24, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England.
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What is Elton John’s Real name?
2. The United States Navy Office of Naval Research used these simple but effective devices for high-altitude atmospheric research in the late 1940s and 1950s.
3. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1947?
4. It was #1 on the charts for six weeks in 1947, and it was Tex Williams and his band’s only Top Ten hit. HINT: The surgeon general would disapprove.
5. Who were the 1947 NFL Champions?
6. Who was the Pope in 1947?
7. What was the first pinball machine to include flippers?
8. Evelyn McHale, 23, was an American bookkeeper whose sudden death was photographed and dubbed “the most beautiful suicide”. At what famous New York City location did she die?
9. Who were the 1947 NBA Champions?
10. Debuting on NBC, this was the first televised game show for children…
The Answers:
47 Trivia Answers for 1947 History
1. What was the highest-grossing film of 1947? Welcome Stranger
2. This film, starring Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, and Natalie Wood, won 3 Academy Awards. Miracle on 34th Street
3. In 1947, what was the average life expectancy in the United States? Men – 64.4 years, Women – 69.7 years.
4. This player broke the modern color barrier in major league baseball when he stepped onto Ebbets Field in Brooklyn to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Name the player AND his number. Jackie Robinson #42.
5. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1947: Art Garfunkel, Kevin Kline, Michael McKean, Richard Dreyfuss, or Albert Brooks? Art Garfunkel (born November 5, 1941)
6. what was the average movie theater ticket price in 1947 to the nearest dime? 40 cents
7. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1947? Near You – Francis Craig
8. How much did a Loaf of Bread cost in 1947? 13 cents
9. How much did a pound of bacon cost in 1947? 78 cents
10. What was the first television station west of the Mississippi River? KTLA in Los Angeles.
11. The most famous diary in the world was first published in the Netherlands in 1947. Name that book. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
12. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1947? In 1947, The Toronto Maple Leafs won over the Montreal Canadiens (4 games to 2)
13. How many people lived in the United States in 1947? The population was an estimated 144,126,071 people.
14. What quiz show, hosted by Groucho Marx, premiered on ABC Radio, and later on television? You Bet Your Life
15. This Disney Character first appeared in Dell Comics Four Color #178. Hint: He is very wealthy. Scrooge McDuck
16. Hurley Smith was granted a US patent (#2417786) for this clothing accessory, which is best known to be worn by white-collar workers and nerds. The Pocket Protector.
17. Tennessee Williams’s play A Streetcar Named Desire, starring Jessica Tandy, premiered at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on Broadway. Who played Stanley Kowalski in the stage show? Marlon Brando
18. Who was the President of the United States in 1947? Harry S. Truman (April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1953)
19. Starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and Dorothy Lamour, the fifth “Road To…” film was released. Name that road movie. Road To Rio
20. Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour co-starred in a 1947 romantic comedy in which Bing Crosby only made a cameo appearance. Name that film. My Favorite Brunette
21. On December 27, 1947, NBC produced a cowboy and puppet-hosted TV show that ran until 1960. Based on the name of this children’s television show, what time is it? It’s Howdy Doody Time
22. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has maintained this symbol since 1947, representing the likelihood of a man-made global catastrophe. Doomsday Clock
23. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1947? The Miracle of the Bells by Russell Janney
24. Which of the Axis powers was the first to regain its sovereignty with the withdrawal of Allied Troops in 1947? Italy
25. Who won the Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award in 1947? Jackie Robinson
26. Some would say that this American Thoroughbred champion racehorse was the greatest of all time, but he died in 1947 at the age of 30. Name that horse. Man ‘o War
27. How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1947? $0.23 per gallon
28. Born in 1947, Donald Brian Roeser, better known as Buck Dharma, was one of the founding members of what American rock group just a few decades later? Hint One: Biggest hit was Burnin’ For You Hint Two: It needs more cowbell Blue Öyster Cult
29. This good-looking gentleman was one of the original outlandish wrestling stars and first appeared on television in 1947. Gorgeous George
30. Name the small American town best known as the location of an Alien Spaceship crash in 1947. Roswell, New Mexico.
31. In 1947, Edwin Land demonstrated his invention to the Optical Society of America. What was his invention? The first “instant camera” – his Polaroid Land Camera.
32. Starting in Chicago, this children’s show, featuring a woman and two puppets, went nationwide on NBC. Name that show. Kukla, Fran, and Ollie.
33. Who was the American Vice-President in 1947? The office of vice president was vacant from April 12, 1945 – January 20, 1949
34. In 1947, a moth was discovered stuck in a relay in the Harvard Mark II electromechanical computer. This was, literally, the first what? Computer Bug
35. Purchased in Germany, John C. Hennessy, Jr. brought what vehicle, the first in America, to the United States? His Volkswagen Beetle
36. This popular children’s book, the second of several Margaret Wise Brown with illustrations by Clement Hurd, was published. Goodnight Moon
37. This 1947 comedy, starring Danny Kaye and Virginia Mayo, was remade in 2013 with Ben Stiller in the lead role. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
38. Who won the 1947 World Series? In 1947, The New York Yankees won, beating the Brooklyn Dodgers (4 games to 3)
39. True or False? Several years after Captain America, comic book storytellers Joe Simon and Jack Kirby created the first Romance comic book, Young Romance. True. It eventually ran for 208 issues.
40. United States Air Force test pilot Captain Chuck Yeager flew a rocket plane faster than the speed of sound. What was the name of the aircraft? Bell X-1 (nicknamed ‘Glamorous Glennis’)
41. This theater-based annual award ceremony was first held in the Grand Ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. The Tony Awards
42. Who was the Time Magazine Man of the Year in 1947? George Marshall
43. Still popular today, this weekly news magazine began to be published in Hamburg, Germany. Der Spiegel
44. These ancient texts were found on the northern shore of a large salt lake in the Middle East’s West Bank. Dead Sea Scrolls
45. This television news/interview program debuted on November 6, 1947, on NBC. Meet the Press
46. An aspiring actress named Elizabeth Short was murdered in Los Angeles. What nickname did the press give her murder? The Black Dahlia. It is still unsolved.
47. This A-List pianist, singer-songwriter, and composer was born on March 24, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England. Elton John
Trivia Team Bonus Questions:
1. What is Elton John’s Real name? Reginald Dwight
2. The United States Navy Office of Naval Research used these simple but effective devices for high-altitude atmospheric research in the late 1940s and 1950s. Skyhook balloons.
3. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1947? Jet Pilot
4. It was #1 on the charts for six weeks in 1947, and it was the only Top Ten Hit for Tex Williams and his band. HINT: The surgeon general would disapprove. Smoke! Smoke! Smoke! (That Cigarette)
5. Who were the 1947 NFL Champions? Chicago Cardinals
6. Who was the Pope in 1947? Pope Pius XII, March 2, 1939 – October 9, 1958
7. What was the first pinball machine to include flippers? The Humpty Dumpty pinball machine by Gottlieb.
8. Evelyn McHale, 23, was an American bookkeeper whose sudden death was photographed and dubbed “the most beautiful suicide”. At what famous New York City location did she die? She committed suicide by jumping off the Empire State Building.
9. Who were the 1947 NBA Champions? For the 1946-47 Season, Champion Philadelphia Warriors won 4 games to 1 over the Chicago Stags
10. Debuting on NBC, this was the first televised game show for children… Juvenile Jury
It went through four name changes but it also started as The Hotel Pennsylvania when it opened at 401 Seventh Avenue (15 Penn Plaza) in Manhattan, across the street from Pennsylvania Station and Madison Square Garden in New York City, right across the street from the Pennsylvania Station and was designed to be the main hotel for visitors who took the train to New York. When it opened on January 25, 1919, and for a long time it was the largest hotel in the world. It was bought and renamed the Hotel Statler on January 1, 1949, and the hotel became The Statler Hilton in 1958. In 1991, it was renamed the Hotel Pennsylvania
Animated films Hotel Transylvania I, II, III, IV – AND a Bugs Bunny Cartoon spoofed the Transylvania Hotel idea.
Ellsworth Statler first owned the hotel, he is the basis for one of the two cranky old Muppets who sit in a theatre balcony – Statler and Waldorf.
The TV Show Mad Men made several references to the hotel, which was still called the Hilton-Statler in the 60s.
There was Scandal Too- it was the location of the famous– foul/play murder in 1953 of Frank Olson, he was a CIA agent, who was deliberately given LSD without his knowledge. The CIA confessed to that in 1975.
On January 21, 1972, the first Star Trek Convention occurred in New York, at the Statler-Hilton Hotel. Because the Star Trek Future idea outlasted the show, it created a real community. Star Wars and the MCU are beggir now, but today there are dozens of conventions centered around TV Shows, Horror Conventions, with hundreds of thousands, possibly millions, of visitors among them. I don’t think any of that would have happened if a few thousand fans didn’t show up in New York that first weekend in January 1972.
Pennsylvania Hotel’s Musical Connection
Starting with the Phone Number- Before Tommy Tutone came out with 867-5309 in (#4 in 1982), the Hotel’s Number- Pennsylvania 6- 5000 (212-736-5000,) came out as a song by Glenn Miller. Tommy made up 867-5309, but Pennsylvania 6, 5000 was and is the real number for the Hotel. They claim that it is the longest continually used number in New York City, which would make it one of the longest-used 7 digit phone numbers anywhere. We’re talking 100 years old at this point.
Glenn Miller was the Top Artist of the day. He had 20 Top Ten Hits between 1939 and 1943- he had 120 Top 30 Hits, all in under 5 years. Nobody has matched that success in such a short time, including chart-toppers like The Beatles, Drake, or Taylor Swift. Pennsylvania Six 5000 was one of his Signature Songs, he performed at the hotel more than any other artist.
In the Early Days of Radio, the 30s, and 40s, live entertainment was based in New York, and Live Broadcasts on NBC had a lot of bands and orchestras that were broadcast from a restaurant/showroom that was part of the Hotel called The Cafe Rouge. Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Doris Day, and of course Glenn Miller played there. In the forties, it was the hottest nightclub in New York.
The Annual Westminster Dog Show is across the street at Madison Square Garden, so a lot of the contestants and their owners stayed there, The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission denied several requests to get it listed as a Historic Landmark. It’s just a walk from the train station, and it was last renovated in 2008- they planned on renovation again, but the building was just too old to renovate. They closed it on April 1, 2020, and it was demolished in 2022.
Music has been the source of sexual discovery for a very long time. In different eras, the style of the music that was considered erotic or sexy changed. A few decades can make the difference between an amorous connection or a silly novelty song. Here is a mix from many from the half-century before this one.
Old Time Double Entendre, Sexy &Seduction Songs, Film Scores, with a little hot Rock and Roll.
1.
The Stripper – David Rose
2.
Let’s Spend The Night Together – The Rolling
Stones
3.
Fever – Peggy Lee
4.
Ebb Tide – The Righteous Brothers
5.
Sixty Minute Man – The Dominoes
6.
Lay Lady Lay – Bob Dylan
7.
Makin’ Whoopee! – Eddie Cantor, 1928
8.
Please Please Me – The Beatles
9.
Let’s Misbehave – Ben Bernie
10.
I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl – Nina Simone
11.
Je T’Aime… Moi Non Plus – Jane Birkin and
Serge Gainsbourg
12.
Whole Lotta Love – Led Zeppelin
13.
I Just Want to Make Love to You – Etta James
14.
Nights in White Satin – Moody Blues
15.
Yes Sir, That’s My Baby – various, 1925
16.
Just A Gigolo – Louis Prima & Keely Smith
17.
The Look of Love – Dusty Springfield
18.
I Get Ideas – Tony Martin, 1950
19.
The House of the Rising Sun – The Animals
20.
Handy Man – Jimmy Jones
21.
One Night – Elvis Presley
22.
Boléro – Maurice Ravel, 1928
23.
In The Midnight Hour – Wilson Pickett
24.
Why Don’t We Do It In The Road – The Beatles
25.
Love Is Strange – Mickey & Sylvia
26.
Boom Boom – John Lee Hooker
27.
You Got To Give Me Some – Bessie Smith
28.
A Guy What Takes His Time – Mae West
29.
Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon – Gary Puckett
& The Union Gap
30.
Carolina in the Morning – various, 1923
31.
I Love Ya Then I Need Ya – Eartha Kitt
32.
Fever – Elvis Presley
33.
The Orgy (From The Conan The Barbarian Soundtrack)
– Basil Poledouris’, 1980
34.
Walkin’ the Dog – Rufus Thomas
35.
I Need A Little Sugar In My Bowl – Bessie Smith
36.
I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You) – Aretha
Franklin
37.
I Want To Be Bad – Helen Kane
38.
Harlen Nocturn – The Viscounts
39.
Too Hot Too Handle – Jayne Mansfield
40.
Hard To Handle – Otis Redding
41.
Night Train – The Viscounts
42.
Lover Man – Billie Holiday
43.
Bacchanale from Daphnis et Chloé (Daphnis
and Chloe) – Maurice Ravel
44.
What’s New Pussycat? – Tom Jones
45.
Good Golly Miss Molly – Little Richard
46.
Shave ‘Em Dry – Lucille Bogan
47.
I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man – Muddy Waters
48.
Bacchanale from Samson et Dalila (Samson and Delilah)
– Charles-Camille Saint-Saëns, 1877
49.
Squeeze Box – The Who
50.
Buffalo Gals – various
51.
If It Don’t Fit (Don’t Force It) – Los Enemigos
52.
Sonata Erotica – Erwin Schulhoff
53.
Foxey Lady – Jimi Hendrix
54.
Dance of the Seven Veils (Salomé) – Richard
Strauss, various, based on the biblical era story of Salome
and John the Baptist
55.
Gotta Gimme Whatcha Got – Julia Lee
56.
Comin’ Thro’ the Rye – Robert Burns
57.
Tom Cat – Muddy Waters
58.
Keep On Churnin’ – Wynonie Harris
59.
These Arms of Mine – Otis Redding
60.
Strip Polka – The Andrews Sisters
61.
A Man For Every Day Of The Week – Sippie Wallace
62.
Come Again, Sweet Love Doth Now Invite – John
Dowland, late 1500s
63.
Love Man – Otis Redding
64.
Whatever Lola Wants – Carmen McRae
65.
Sam The Hot Dog Man – Lil Johnson
66.
Opening of Der Rosenkavalier – Richard Strauss,
1911
World Changing Event: On April 4, 1949, The North Atlantic Treaty was signed, making the United States closer to our European allies.
Influential Songs include Some Enchanted Evening from the musical South Pacific and the now-controversial Baby It’s Cold Outside by various duos.
The Movies to Watch include Mighty Joe Young, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, White Heat, Twelve O’Clock High, Samson and Delilah, The Third Man, Adam’s Rib, and A Letter to Three Wives.
The Most Famous Person in America was probably Bob Hope
Notable books include: 1984 by George Orwell
Price of 1 pound of bacon in 1949: 49 cents
US Life Expectancy: Males: 65.2 years, Females: 70.7 years
The Funny Duo was: Abbott and Costello The Funny Guy was Milton Berle
The First: The first science fiction television series was Captain Video and His Video Rangers, airing from 1949 to 1955.
Top Ten Baby Names of 1949
Linda, Mary, Patricia, Barbara, Susan, James, Robert, John, William, Michael
Fashion Icons and Sex Symbols
Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman, Martine Carol, Ava Gardner, Rita Hayworth, Hedy Lamarr, Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell, Lana Turner
Oscars: 21st Academy Awards
The 21st Academy Awards ceremony took place on March 24, 1949, and returned to the Academy Award Theater in Hollywood, breaking from the larger Shrine Auditorium of the previous year. Robert Montgomery was the host for the evening. The film Hamlet made history by becoming the first non-American film to win the Best Picture award. Laurence Olivier starred in and directed Hamlet, earning him the Best Actor award. The Best Actress trophy went to Jane Wyman for her role in Johnny Belinda. This ceremony is particularly notable because it was the first time the Best Foreign Language Film category was introduced, although it was only a special honorary award then.
Emmy Awards: 1st Primetime Emmy Awards
The first Primetime Emmy Awards were held on January 25, 1949, at the Hollywood Athletic Club. Walter O’Keefe hosted the event. Unlike today’s expansive categories, the first Emmy Awards had only six. The Most Outstanding Television Personality award went to ventriloquist Shirley Dinsdale for her work on Judy Splinters. Meanwhile, the “Station Award” for the best overall programming was given to KTLA, a local station in Los Angeles. The first Emmy Awards were focused primarily on Los Angeles programming and were less of a national event compared to what they’ve become today.
Both ceremonies marked significant moments in their respective histories: the Oscars for adding a new category and the Emmys for their very inception. The eligibility period for the Oscars was from January 1, 1948, to December 31, 1948, while the Emmy Awards primarily focused on Los Angeles-area programming without a specific eligibility window.
“The Quotes”
“Meep Meep” – The Road-runner
“Made it, Ma! Top of the world!” – James Cagney, in White Heat
“What a dump.” – Bette Davis, in Beyond the Forest
Time Magazine’s Man of the Year
Winston Churchill
Miss America
Jacque Mercer (Litchfield, AZ)
The Biggest Pop Artists of 1949 include
The Andrews Sisters, Buddy Clark, Perry Como, Bing Crosby, Vic Damone, Gordon Jenkins and His Orchestra, Dick Haymes, Eddy Howard, Sammy Kaye, Frankie Laine, Peggy Lee, Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians, Tony Martin, Art Mooney, Russ Morgan, Vaughn Monroe, Gordon MacRae, Tony Martin, Art Mooney, Dinah Shore, Frank Sinatra, Jo Stafford, Kay Starr, Mel Torme, Jimmy Wakely, Margaret Whiting
US Politics
January 20, 1949 (Thursday): Second inauguration of Harry S. Truman
1949 Pop Culture Facts & History
Charles Lubin’s small chain of ‘Community Bake Shops’ became the Kitchens of Sara Lee, named after his daughter.
Fast and Furry-ous (cartoon) was released, with the debut of Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner. It was directed by Chuck Jones (credited as Charles M. Jones).
The first “network” television broadcast, as The Dumont Network’s KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, went on the air, connecting the East Coast and mid-west programming.
The minimum wage jumped from 40 to 75 cents on October 26.
Airplane Celebrity Death: Buddy Clark
The first credit card, Diners Club, was issued in 1949 and made of cardboard. Co-founder Frank McNamara was dining with clients and realized he had forgotten his wallet (his wife paid the tab).
The Basketball Association of America and the National Basketball League merged to form the National Basketball Association (NBA).
The Ladies Pro Golf Association of America was formed in New York.
The first Volkswagon (Type 1) car to arrive in the United States, a 1948 model, was brought to New York by Dutch businessman Ben Pon. There was little interest, and only two were sold that year.
On March 2, the B-50 Superfortress Lucky Lady II, under Captain James Gallagher, landed in Fort Worth, Texas, after completing the first non-stop around-the-world airplane flight, refueling four times in flight.
Dragnet premiered on NBC radio; later, it was a TV series.
At Wimbledon, “Gorgeous Gussie” Moran wore a skirt that exposed her knees, causing Wimbledon officials to complain that she was “bringing vulgarity and sin into tennis”.
The first automatic street light went on in New Milford, CT.
The “Hollywood” sign by Mulholland Drive used to say “Hollywoodland” when it was constructed in 1923, up until 1949.
The first Emmy Awards were presented at the Hollywood Athletic Club.
Jockey Bill Shoemaker won his 1st race in Albany, California.
Grady the Cow, a 1,200-pound cow, got stuck inside a silo on a farm in Yukon, Oklahoma, and captured national media attention. After a few days, Grady was freed and lived until 1961.
On January 19, The cognac-bearing Poe Toaster first appeared at the grave of Edgar Allan Poe.
On January 11, Los Angeles received its first recorded snowfall.
António Egas Moniz was awarded the 1949 Nobel Prize for Medicine for perfecting the lobotomy.
Red Byron won the first NASCAR Sprint Cup.
The Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act, Act No 55, prohibiting marriage or any sexual relationship between White people and people of other races, was passed in South Africa.
The 45 RPM record was introduced. DJ’s got a pressing of Texarkana Baby/Bouquet Of Roses by Eddy Arnold, The Tennessee Plowboy, And His Guitar. The first large commercial release was You’re Adorable by Perry Como. There were several samples produced before them.
Siam renamed itself Thailand.
By a vote of 37-12, Israel became the 59th member of the United Nations.
Between 1949 and 1952, The White House was completely gutted, leaving only the outer walls around a shell. The mansion was rebuilt using concrete and steel beams instead of its original wooden joists.
The Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America was incorporated in New York.
George Orwell’s dystopian novel Nineteen Eighty-Four was published in London.
Arthur Miller’s tragedy Death of a Salesman opened at the Morosco Theatre in New York City for 742 performances.
The Tragedy
Kathy Fiscus, 3½ years old, died from falling down an abandoned well in San Marino, California.
Doomsday Clock
Three minutes to midnight, according to the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists. 1949: The Soviet Union denies it, but in the fall, President Harry Truman tells the American public that the Soviets tested their first nuclear device, officially starting the arms race. “We do not advise Americans that doomsday is near and that they can expect atomic bombs to start falling on their heads a month or year from now,” the Bulletin explains. “But we think they have reason to be deeply alarmed and to be prepared for grave decisions.”
Television Debuts
On January 10, The Goldbergs premiered on CBS On January 12, Arthur Godfrey & His Friends premiered on CBS TV On January 31, Daytime soap opera These Are My Children premiered on NBC in Chicago On June 24, Hopalong Cassidy became the first network western on NBC. On June 27, Captain Video & His Video Rangers” debuted on DUMONT-TV.
The Habits
Men started wearing argyle socks, thanks to Brooks Brothers.
Watching Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman on Broadway
1st Appearances & 1949’s Most Popular Christmas Gifts, Toys and Presents
Silly Putty, Candy Land, Kewpie dolls, Cootie*, Clue** (1948 in the U.K.), Bouncing Putty, Wind-up Clacking “Talking Teeth”
Nobel Prize Winners
Physics – Yukawa Hideki Chemistry – William Francis Giauque Medicine – Walter Rudolf Hess and António Caetano de Abreu Freire Egas Moniz Literature – William Faulkner Peace – John Boyd Orr
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1949
A Rage to Live by John O’Hara The Big Fisherman by Lloyd C. Douglas Cutlass Empire by Van Wyck Mason Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller Dinner at Antoine’s by Frances Parkinson Keyes The Egyptian by Mika Waltari Father of the Bride by Edward Streeter High Towers by Thomas B. Costain Mary by Sholem Asch 1984 by George Orwell Point of No Return by John P. Marquand Pride’s Castle by Frank Yerby
Best Film Oscar Winner
Hamlet (presented in 1949)
Sports Highlights
World Series Champions: New York Yankees NFL Champions: Philadelphia Eagles NBA Champions: Minneapolis Lakers Stanley Cup Champs: Toronto Maple Leafs U.S. Open Golf Cary Middlecoff U.S. Tennis: (Men/Ladies) Richard A. Gonzales/Margaret Osborne DuPont Wimbledon (Men/Women): Ted Schroeder/Louis Brough NCAA Football Champions: Notre Dame NCAA Basketball Champions: Kentucky Kentucky Derby: Ponder
The Family by Nina Fedorova For Whom the Bell Tollsby Ernest Hemingway The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss How Green Was My Valley by Richard Llewellyn Kitty Foyle by Christopher Morley Mrs. Miniver by Jan Struther The Nazarene by Sholem Asch Night in Bombay by Louis Bromfield Oliver Wiswell by Kenneth Roberts Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt Stars on the Sea by F. van Wyck Mason Take our 1940 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1941:
Curious George by H.A. and Margret Ray For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway H. M. Pulham, Esquire by John P. Marquand The Keys of the Kingdom by A. J. Cronin Oliver Wiswell by Kenneth Roberts Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey Mr. and Mrs. Cugat by Isabel Scott Rorick Random Harvest by James Hilton Saratoga Trunk by Edna Ferber The Sun Is My Undoing by Marguerite Steen This Above All by Eric Knight Windswept by Mary Ellen Chase Take our 1941 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1942:
And Now Tomorrow by Rachel Field Dragon Seed by Pearl S. Buck Drivin’ Woman by Elizabeth Pickett Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier The Keys of the Kingdom by A. J. Cronin Kings Row by Henry Bellamann The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck The Poky Little Puppy by Janette Sebring Lowrey The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis The Song of Bernadette by Franz Werfel The Stranger by Albert Camus The Sun Is My Undoing by Marguerite Steen Windswept by Mary Ellen Chase Take our 1942 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1943:
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith The Apostle by Sholem Asch The Forest and the Fort by Hervey Allen The Fountainhead – Ayn Rand The Human Comedy by William Saroyan Hungry Hill by Daphne du Maurier The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Mrs. Parkington by Louis Bromfield The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas So Little Time by John P. Marquand The Song of Bernadette by Franz Werfel The Valley of Decision by Marcia Davenport Take our 1943 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1944:
A Bell for Adano by John Hersey A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith The Apostle by Sholem Asch Forever Amber by Kathleen Winsor The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams Green Dolphin Street by Elizabeth Goudge The Green Years by A.J. Cronin Leave Her to Heaven by Ben Ames Williams The Razor’s Edge by W. Somerset Maugham The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas Strange Fruit by Lillian Smith The Tall Book of Nursery Tales by Feodor Rojankovsky Take our 1944 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1945:
A Lion Is in the Streets by Adria Locke Langley A Street in Bronzeville by Gwendolyn Brooks The Black Rose by Thomas B. Costain Captain from Castile by Samuel Shellabarger Cass Timberlane by Sinclair Lewis Earth and High Heaven by Gwethalyn Graham Forever Amber by Kathleen Winsor The Green Years by A.J. Cronin Immortal Wife by Irving Stone The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas Tootle by Gertrude Crampton So Well Remembered by James Hilton The White Tower by James Ramsey Ullman
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1946:
Arch of Triumph by Erich Maria Remarque B.F.’s Daughter by John P. Marquand The Black Rose by Thomas B. Costain The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care by Dr. Benjamin Spock East River by Sholen Asch The Foxes of Harrow by Frank Yerby The Hucksters by Frederic Wakeman, Sr. The Iceman Cometh by Eugene O’Neill The King’s General by Daphne du Maurier The Littlest Angel by Charles Tazewell The Miracle of the Bells by Russell Janney The River Road by Frances Parkinson Keyes This Side of Innocence by Taylor Caldwell The Snake Pit by Mary Jane Ward Take our 1946 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1947:
A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams B.F.’s Daughter by John P. Marquand The Diary of a Young Girl (aka The Diary of Anne Frank) by Anne Frank East Side, West Side by Marcia Davenport Gentleman’s Agreement by Laura Z. Hobson Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown House Divided by Ben Ames Williams Kingsblood Royal by Sinclair Lewis Lydia Bailey by Kenneth Roberts The Miracle of the Bells by Russell Janney The Moneyman by Thomas B. Costain Prince of Foxes by Samuel Shellabarger The Vixens by Frank Yerby The Wayward Bus by John Steinbeck Take our 1947 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1948:
The Big Fisherman by Lloyd C. Douglas The Bishop’s Mantle by Agnes Sligh Turnbull Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton Dinner at Antoine’s by Frances Parkinson Keyes Eagle in the Sky by Van Wyck Mason East Side, West Side by Marcia Davenport The Golden Hawk by Frank Yerby House Divided by Ben Ames Williams The Ides of March by Thornton Wilder The Naked and the Dead by Norman Mailer Pilgrim’s Inn by Elizabeth Goudge Raintree County by Ross Lockridge, Jr. Saggy Baggy Elephant by Kathryn and Byron Jackson Sexual Behavior in the Human Male by Alfred C. Kinsey Shannon’s Way by A. J. Cronin Tomorrow Will Be Better by Betty Smith The Young Lions by Irwin Shaw Take our 1948 Quiz!
Popular and Best-selling Books From 1949:
A Rage to Live by John O’Hara The Big Fisherman by Lloyd C. Douglas Cutlass Empire by Van Wyck Mason Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller Dinner at Antoine’s by Frances Parkinson Keyes The Egyptian by Mika Waltari Father of the Bride by Edward Streeter High Towers by Thomas B. Costain Mary by Sholem Asch 1984 by George Orwell Point of No Return by John P. Marquand Pride’s Castle by Frank Yerby Take our 1949 Quiz!
Some Enchanted Evening
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific (1949) remains one of their most celebrated musicals, combining entertainment with a strong social commentary on prejudice. Based on James Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific (1947), the show won multiple Tony Awards during its Broadway run. It follows two couples: Nurse Nellie Forbush and French planter Emile de Becque, and Lt. Cable with Tonkinese girl Liat. Both relationships face cultural and racial barriers, and while Nellie and Emile reconcile, Lt. Cable dies on a dangerous mission.
Some Enchanted Evening, performed by Ezio Pinza, captures Emile’s romantic longing upon meeting Nellie. Other memorable songs include I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair and Happy Talk. The show also gained notoriety for its song You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught, which criticizes learned prejudice. The Ku Klux Klan threatened Rodgers and Hammerstein over the song, but they refused to remove it.
Bing Crosby
Galway Bay
Written by Dr. Arthur Colahan in 1947, Galway Bay became a hit for Bing Crosby, who revised some of the lyrics. The song resonated deeply with Irish immigrants worldwide and is often used during St. Patrick’s Day Masses. It captures the yearning for a homeland, with Galway Bay—a real bay in Ireland—serving as a poignant symbol.
Dinah Shore and Buddy Clark
Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Written by Frank Loesser, Baby, It’s Cold Outside was originally performed by Loesser and his wife at a private party before being featured in the 1949 film Neptune’s Daughter. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song that year. The playful duet depicts a man persuading a woman to stay indoors due to the weather. Numerous artists have since recorded it and even received a modern twist when performed by Kurt and Blaine in the 2010 Christmas episode of Glee.
Bing Crosby
Dear Hearts and Gentle People
Composed in 1949 by Sammy Fain with lyrics by Bob Hilliard, Dear Hearts and Gentle People was inspired by a scrap of paper found on Stephen Foster’s body in 1864. The phrase “Dear friends and gentle hearts” served as the song’s foundation, and Bing Crosby’s warm recording became a popular hit.
Dinah Shore
Lavender Blue
Originally a 17th-century English nursery rhyme, Lavender Blue became a hit in 1949, with Dinah Shore popularizing the tune. Burl Ives performed the song in the Disney film So Dear to My Heart (1949), winning an Academy Award for his rendition.
Eddie “Piano” Miller
Around Her Neck She Wore a Yellow Ribbon
A yellow ribbon has symbolized waiting for a loved one’s return since ancient Rome. The modern song She Wore a Yellow Ribbon was adapted in 1907 as a military marching tune. In 1949, it was used as the title song for the John Wayne film She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, with altered lyrics. The yellow ribbon remains a symbol of homecoming, as seen during the 1980 Iranian hostage crisis.
Frankie Laine
Mule Train
Written by Johnny Lange, Hy Heath, Doc Tommy Scott, and Fred Glickman, Mule Train is a Wild West-themed song about a cowboy delivering mail and packages. Introduced by Frankie Laine, it was later recorded by Burl Ives, who added whip-cracking sound effects. The song became a Western music classic.
Top Artists and Songs of 1949
Al Morgan
Jealous Heart
Andrews Sisters and Danny Kaye
Put ’em in a Box Tie ’em With a Ribbon
Andrews Sisters
I Can Dream Can’t I?
Art Mooney
Hop-Scotch Polka
Bing Crosby
Dear Hearts and Gentle People
Faraway Places
Galway Bay
Mule Train
Riders in the Sky
Some Enchanted Evening
Blue Barron Orchestra
Cruising Down the River
Buddy Clark
A Dreamer’s Holiday
It’s A Big, Wide, Wonderful World
You’re Breakin’ My Heart
Delmore Brothers
Blues Stay Away From Me
Dick Haymes
Dear Hearts and Gentle People
Maybe Its Because
The Old Master Painter
Dinah Shore and Buddy Clark
Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Dinah Shore
Dear Hearts and Gentle People
Lavender Blue
Doris Day
Again
Canadian Capers
Eddie ‘Piano’ Miller
She Wore a Yellow Ribbon
Eddy Arnold
Don’t Rob Another Man’s Castle
I’m Throwing Rice (At The Girl I Love)
Edith Piaf
La Vie En Rose
Elton Britt
Riders in the Sky
Ernest Tubb
Slippin’ Around
Evelyn Night
A Little Bird Told Me
Ezio Pinza
Some Enchanted Evening
Frank Sinatra
Some Enchanted Evening
Frankie Laine
Mule Train
That Lucky Old Sun (Just Rolls Around Heaven All day)
Freddy Martin
I’ve Got A Lovely Bunch of Coconuts
Gordon Jenkins
Again
Don’t Cry Joe (Let Her Go)
Guy Lombardo
Hop-Scotch Polka
Hank Willaims
I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry
Lovesick Blues
Ink Spots
You’re Breakin’ My Heart
Jack Teter Trio
Johnson Rag
Jimmy Witherspoon
Ain’t Nobody’s Business
Jo Stafford and Gordon MacRae
‘A’ You’re Adorable
My Darling My Darling
Joe Loss Orchestra
A Little Bird Told Me
Far Away Places
Say Something Sweet To Your Sweetheart
Larry Darnell
For You My Love
Larry Green
It’s a Big, Wide Wonderful World
Les Brown
I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm
Louis Jordan and his Tympany Five
Beans and Corn Bread
Saturday Night Fish Fry
Margaret Whiting and Jimmy Wakely
Slippin’ Around
Margaret Whiting and Johnny Mercer
Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Margaret Whiting
Far Away Places
Mel Torme
Careless Hands
Patty Andrews and Bob Crosby
The Pussy Cat Song (Nyot Nyow!)
Paul Williams and His Hucklebuckers
The Huckle-Buck
Perry Como
A Dreamer’s Holiday
Forever and Ever
Some Enchanted Evening
Perry Como and The Fontane Sisters
‘A’ You’re Adorable
A Dreamer’s Holiday
I Don’t See Me In Your Eyes Anymore
