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
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 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.