In the news1935
First electric railway line opened
On May 5, 1935, the national railway company opened Belgium's first electric line between Brussels-Nord and Antwerp-Central.
Born 1938
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1938
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In the news1935
On May 5, 1935, the national railway company opened Belgium's first electric line between Brussels-Nord and Antwerp-Central.
Daily life
Childhood Chores and Schooling Experiences
Children's daily routines involved chores like fetching water or tending to animals, while schooling was often disrupted, especially during the war years. Some schools eventually introduced amenities like communal showers, though access to such facilities remained a luxury for many.
Work
Common Blue-Collar Jobs in Belgium
Blue-collar jobs were concentrated in industries such as metalwork, mining, transport, construction, and textiles.
Around the world · 1939–1945The Second World War. The deadliest war in history, from 1939 to 1945: some 70 million people died. Brazil sent 25,000 soldiers to fight in Italy.
What people wore
Boys' and youth clothing trends
Starting around 1936, golf breeches that bloused around the calf became popular for Sunday best, while boys typically received their first pair of long trousers around age 17 or 18 as a sign of becoming a man. Children’s weekday clothing was less of a concern, with schoolchildren often wearing iron-shod boots and short trousers.
Music
Radio listening became immensely popular
By 1939, radio listening became a widespread habit in Belgium, with the number of radio sets soaring to over 1.15 million.
What it cost
Decline in food budget share
By the late 1940s, food expenses accounted for approximately 45 percent of a worker household's budget, a significant decrease from about 58 percent in 1929.