In the news1950
Creation of the minimum wage
In 1950, the government established the minimum wage (SMIG) to improve workers' purchasing power.
Born 2 Jun 1957
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2 Jun 1957
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In the news1950
In 1950, the government established the minimum wage (SMIG) to improve workers' purchasing power.
What people wore
Most women sewed their own clothing
Until the 1960s, many French women were skilled in home sewing and would regularly recreate fashion patterns from magazines to make their own dresses, suits, and coats.
Daily life
Rise of modern household appliances
Household appliances were rare in 1950, with only about 7.5 percent of households owning a refrigerator and 8.5 percent a washing machine. By 1968, these numbers surged to 72.4 percent and 50.1 percent, respectively.
In the news1956
In 1956, French workers were granted a third week of paid vacation, significantly increasing their leisure time.
Music
Village Dances and Local Orchestras
In the 1950s and 1960s, rural village dances often featured a live orchestra of three or four musicians, typically including an accordionist, a drummer, and sometimes a saxophonist. Admission often cost a few francs, with proceeds supporting local associations or festival committees.
In Europe1957
Six countries signed the Treaty of Rome, the start of what became the European Union.
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.