In the news1956
Third week of paid vacation
In 1956, French workers were granted a third week of paid vacation, significantly increasing their leisure time.
Born Boulogne-Billancourt, 21 Dec 1959
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21 Dec 1959
Born in Boulogne-Billancourt
He has lived through 8 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like around Boulogne-Billancourt.
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In the news1956
In 1956, French workers were granted a third week of paid vacation, significantly increasing their leisure time.
What people wore
Structured undergarments defined the silhouette
In the 1950s, women's undergarments like corsets, girdles, and structured petticoats were considered essential to achieve the cinched waist and specific silhouette dictated by fashion designers.
Daily life
Improving domestic sanitation and running water
In 1954, only 10 percent of French households had a shower or bathtub, and over 40 percent lacked running water. By the end of the period, the majority of the population had gained access to fully equipped, modern dwellings.
In the news1950
In 1950, the government established the minimum wage (SMIG) to improve workers' purchasing power.
Music
Dance Rituals and Social Life
The village dance served as an important social hub where attendees danced the waltz, tango, paso doble, and the java. Mothers often accompanied their daughters to these events, which functioned as both popular celebrations and unofficial marriage markets.
In Europe1948–1952
American aid of some $13 billion rebuilt the ruined economies of Western Europe.
Getting around
Record-breaking train travel in 1955
By 1955, the Sud-Express train achieved a world-record speed for its route, covering the 816 km between Paris and Hendaye in 7 hours and 23 minutes.