In the news1958
Brussels hosts World Fair Expo 58
The World Fair in Brussels, Expo 58, modernized the country and introduced citizens to a new era of global possibilities.
Born 22 May 1959
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22 May 1959
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General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
In the news1958
The World Fair in Brussels, Expo 58, modernized the country and introduced citizens to a new era of global possibilities.
What people wore
Belgian boys' clothing in the 1950s-1960s
In the 1950s and early 1960s, Belgian boys frequently wore short pants until they were 12 or 13 years old, sometimes even until age 16 for school uniforms. By the 1960s, American-style casual wear like T-shirts began to gain popularity among the youth.
Daily life
Weekly bathing and public shower houses
Bathing was a weekly ritual, often taking place on Saturdays in an oval tub that narrowed at the feet, with the same water frequently used for the entire family. In some communities, public shower houses existed, such as one in Zaventem where a shower cost 1.50 BEF.
In the news1956
Belgium successfully achieved its first controlled nuclear chain reaction at the BR 1 research reactor in Mol.
Music
Flamenco Socializing in Immigrant Communities
In immigrant communities, private parties often featured spontaneous singing and dancing to sevillanas and rumbas. After formal restaurant performances ended, guests sometimes held private gatherings to enjoy more authentic flamenco music.
In Europe1957
Six countries signed the Treaty of Rome, the start of what became the European Union.
Getting around
Transition from trams to buses in Brussels
During the 1950s, public transport in Brussels and other regions relied heavily on trams, but many lines were rapidly replaced by bus services, causing service frequencies to drop; for instance, waiting times increased from six or seven minutes to about twelve minutes.