History's Best Selling Products of 1959

1. Fisher-Price Little People

   Released in 1959 by Fisher-Price

   On February 1, 1959, the landscape of preschool play was forever changed not with a grand announcement, but with the quiet roll-out of a simple wooden school bus. This was the Fisher-Price #952 Safety School Bus, a toy that perfectly captured the post-war suburban zeitgeist. More importantly, riding inside were the very first passengers of what would become one of the most beloved toy lines in history: the Little People. While not yet known by that name, these simple, peg-like figures represented a revolutionary concept—creating an entire universe of characters for children to populate their imaginative worlds, starting with the familiar daily ritual of riding the school bus.

2. Barbie

   Released in 1959 by Mattel

   On March 9, 1959, the toy world was irrevocably changed. At the American International Toy Fair in New York City, a skeptical, male-dominated audience of toy buyers was introduced to a doll unlike any other. In an era where baby dolls reigned supreme, encouraging girls to play at being mothers, Mattel unveiled a curvaceous, 11.5-inch "Teen-age Fashion Model" named Barbie. This date marks the official birth of an icon. The brainchild of Ruth Handler, Barbie was not a baby to be cared for, but a canvas for aspiration, allowing young girls to imagine their future selves. Her debut was a gamble that challenged every convention of the 1950s toy industry.

3. Rio Bravo

   Released in 1959 by Howard Hawks, Warner Bros. Pictures

   On March 17, 1959, the legendary Western 'Rio Bravo' galloped into theaters, first premiering in Austin, Texas, before its wider release. This cinematic masterpiece, directed by the iconic Howard Hawks, would quickly cement its place as a quintessential entry in the Western genre, a beloved classic, and a significant box office success for its time. Far from just another cowboy film, its initial reception laid the groundwork for decades of critical reappraisal, influencing countless filmmakers and captivating audiences with its unique blend of suspense, camaraderie, and understated heroism. This specific date marks the beginning of its enduring journey in film history.

4. The Shaggy Dog

   Released in 1959 by Charles Barton, Buena Vista Distribution

   March 19, 1959, marked the highly anticipated debut of Walt Disney's live-action comedy, 'The Shaggy Dog.' This date ushered in a new era for Disney, showcasing their increasing prowess beyond animation and family dramas. The film quickly became a massive box office hit, captivating audiences with its unique blend of fantasy, humor, and family appeal. Its success not only cemented Disney's position in live-action cinema but also paved the way for many similar fantastical comedies from the studio in the decades that followed, making this premiere date a significant moment in cinematic history.

5. Some Like It Hot

   Released in 1959 by Billy Wilder, United Artists

   On March 29, 1959, American cinema was gifted one of its most enduring and brilliant comedies with the premiere of "Some Like It Hot." Directed by the legendary Billy Wilder, the film arrived at the tail end of the restrictive Hays Code era, audaciously pushing boundaries with its themes of cross-dressing, gender fluidity, and sexual innuendo. Its release was a cultural event, proving that audiences were ready for a more sophisticated and daring brand of humor. This date marks the debut of a film that not only became a massive box office success but was also instantly recognized as a classic, setting a new standard for screwball comedies that remains influential over six decades later.

6. Fake Vomit

   Released in 1959 by S.S. Adams Company

   On April 1, 1959, the world of practical jokes was forever changed with the release of a disgustingly brilliant novelty. The S.S. Adams Company, already titans of the prank industry, chose April Fools' Day to strategically unleash 'Whoops,' more commonly known as fake vomit. In the relatively conservative and wholesome cultural landscape of the late 1950s, this item represented a new level of gross-out humor. The launch on this specific day was a masterstroke of marketing, immediately associating the product with the one day a year dedicated to hoaxes and gags, ensuring its place as an essential tool for any aspiring prankster for generations to come.

7. Imitation of Life

   Released in 1959 by Douglas Sirk, Universal-International Pictures

   Premiering on April 17, 1959, Douglas Sirk's "Imitation of Life" arrived at a time of escalating social change in America. As the Civil Rights Movement gained momentum, this lavish Hollywood melodrama confronted themes of racial identity, class, and motherhood with a frankness that was rare for a major studio production. The film tells the parallel stories of two mothers—one a white aspiring actress, the other her African American housekeeper—and their troubled relationships with their daughters, one of whom struggles with her identity by passing as white. Its release sparked widespread public discussion, offering audiences a glossy, yet emotionally devastating, lens through which to view some of the most pressing social issues of the day.

8. The Nun's Story

   Released in 1959 by Fred Zinnemann, Warner Bros.

   June 18, 1959, marked the North American theatrical release of 'The Nun's Story,' a cinematic masterpiece that captivated audiences and critics alike, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of its year. This date launched a powerful and poignant drama onto screens, showcasing Audrey Hepburn in one of her most memorable and challenging roles. The film was not just a commercial success but a critical triumph, earning ten Academy Award nominations and solidifying its place as a significant cultural touchstone. Its arrival underscored Hollywood's ability to tackle profound spiritual and human struggles with grace and emotional depth, immediately establishing itself as a classic.

9. Anatomy of a Murder

   Released in 1959 by Otto Preminger, Columbia Pictures

   On July 1, 1959, the cinematic landscape shifted with the premiere of Otto Preminger's groundbreaking courtroom drama, 'Anatomy of a Murder.' This date marked the initial public unveiling of a film that would not only captivate audiences with its gripping narrative but also spark significant discussions for its frank portrayal of sensitive themes and its challenge to the strictures of Hollywood censorship. Premiering in Ishpeming, Michigan, where parts of the film were shot, this release was more than just a debut; it was the launch of a critical and commercial success that would set new standards for legal dramas and contribute to the erosion of the Hays Code, making this date a pivotal moment in film history.

10. North by Northwest

    Released in 1959 by Alfred Hitchcock, MGM

    July 1, 1959, marked the world theatrical premiere of Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece, 'North by Northwest,' unveiling a sophisticated new benchmark for the spy thriller genre. This date introduced audiences in Chicago to a film that would swiftly become a critical and commercial triumph, cementing its place as a cornerstone of cinema history. Far more than just a box office success, its initial reception heralded a thrilling blend of suspense, glamour, and mistaken identity that captivated viewers from its opening scene. The premiere signified the arrival of a film destined to be revered for its innovative storytelling, iconic imagery, and unparalleled tension, immediately setting itself apart in the cinematic landscape of the late 1950s and beyond.

11. Hovercraft

    Released in 1959 by Christopher Cockerell, Saunders-Roe

    On July 25, 1959, the world watched as a strange, saucer-like craft lifted off a beach in Calais, France, and skimmed across the water towards Dover, England. This was the Saunders-Roe Nautical 1, or SR.N1, the first practical, full-sized hovercraft. The date was deliberately chosen to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Louis Blériot's historic first flight across the English Channel, framing the event as the next great leap in transportation. Piloted by Captain Peter Lamb and with its inventor, Christopher Cockerell, on board, the two-hour journey was more than a simple crossing; it was a powerful public demonstration that this radical new technology, the Air-Cushion Vehicle, was not just a theoretical concept but a viable and potentially revolutionary mode of transport.

12. North by Northwest

    Released in 1959 by Alfred Hitchcock, MGM

    July 28, 1959, marked the world theatrical premiere of Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece, 'North by Northwest,' unveiling a sophisticated new benchmark for the spy thriller genre. This date introduced audiences in Chicago to a film that would swiftly become a critical and commercial triumph, cementing its place as a cornerstone of cinema history. Far more than just a box office success, its initial reception heralded a thrilling blend of suspense, glamour, and mistaken identity that captivated viewers from its opening scene. The premiere signified the arrival of a film destined to be revered for its innovative storytelling, iconic imagery, and unparalleled tension, immediately setting itself apart in the cinematic landscape of the late 1950s and beyond.

13. Advise and Consent

    Released in 1959 by Allen Drury, Doubleday

    When Allen Drury's 'Advise and Consent' hit bookshelves in August 1959, it immediately ignited a firestorm of discussion and captivated the American public. This monumental political novel was not just a book; it was a cultural phenomenon, offering an unprecedented, fly-on-the-wall perspective into the Machiavellian world of Washington D.C. Its launch coincided with heightened Cold War anxieties and a burgeoning interest in the inner workings of government, making its intricate portrayal of Senate politics feel incredibly timely and relevant. Readers flocked to it, eager to uncover the supposed 'secrets' of power, compromise, and moral ambiguity that Drury, a former Senate correspondent, so vividly brought to life. It quickly ascended bestseller lists, cementing its place as an essential read of its era.

14. Plarail Toy Train

    Released in 1959 by Tomy

    On October 1, 1959, Japanese toy company Tomy released a product that would become a cultural icon: the 'Plastic Train and Rail Set'. Launched into the post-war Japanese market, this simple, battery-powered train system was a revolutionary concept. It stood in stark contrast to the expensive, intricate metal model trains that were the standard for hobbyists. Tomy’s creation was designed specifically for children, emphasizing safety, durability, and imaginative play. Its debut on this date marked the beginning of a new era in toy trains, offering an affordable and accessible way for a generation of children to build their own miniature worlds, mirroring the rapid modernization and railway expansion happening in Japan at the time.

15. The Twilight Zone

    Released in 1959 by Rod Serling, CBS

    On October 2, 1959, American television audiences were invited to cross over into another dimension—a dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. On this date, CBS premiered "The Twilight Zone," a show unlike anything else on the air. In an era dominated by wholesome family sitcoms, predictable Westerns, and quiz shows, creator Rod Serling's anthology series was a bold and unsettling proposition. The first episode, "Where Is Everybody?," set the tone perfectly, exploring themes of loneliness and paranoia. The debut marked a pivotal moment in television history, signaling the arrival of a series that would use science fiction and fantasy not for mere escapism, but to hold a mirror up to society and explore the darkest corners of the human condition.

16. Pillow Talk

    Released in 1959 by Michael Gordon, Universal-International

    October 6, 1959, marked the highly anticipated premiere of 'Pillow Talk,' a groundbreaking romantic comedy that would redefine the genre and propel its stars, Doris Day and Rock Hudson, to unprecedented heights of popularity. This date signifies the moment audiences first experienced the sparkling chemistry and witty banter that made the film an instant classic. 'Pillow Talk' wasn't just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon that quickly became one of the highest-grossing films of its year, cementing its place in cinematic history and laying the groundwork for a new era of sophisticated romantic comedies. Its launch was a pivotal moment, showcasing Universal-International's bold vision and the timeless appeal of its leading duo.

17. Ben-Hur

    Released in 1959 by William Wyler, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    Ben-Hur (1959) wasn't just a movie; it was a cinematic event that premiered on November 18, 1959, in New York City, marking the beginning of its legendary run. This colossal epic immediately captured global attention, setting new benchmarks for scale, spectacle, and financial success. Its release was a monumental moment for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, a studio deeply in debt, as the film single-handedly rescued them from the brink of bankruptcy. The premiere date signifies the launch of a film that would go on to win a record-setting eleven Academy Awards and etch its place in film history as one of the most successful and revered productions of all time.

18. Hawaii

    Released in 1959 by James A. Michener, Random House

    James A. Michener's 'Hawaii' exploded onto the literary scene in 1959, immediately captivating readers with its epic scope and vivid portrayal of the islands. Published in the very year Hawaii achieved statehood, the novel tapped into a national fascination with the newly admitted 50th state, becoming an instant cultural phenomenon. Its massive success underscored Michener's prowess as a master storyteller capable of transforming vast historical narratives into compelling human dramas, establishing it as one of the year's undisputed literary blockbusters and a defining work in the historical fiction genre.

19. Suddenly, Last Summer

    Released in 1959 by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Columbia Pictures

    The debut of "Suddenly, Last Summer" on December 22, 1959, marked a significant moment in cinematic history, unleashing a torrent of psychological drama and gothic intrigue upon audiences. This holiday season release defied conventions, opting for a dark and controversial narrative over typical festive fare. Far from being a niche film, it proved to be a powerful box office draw, becoming one of the year's most talked-about and profitable movies, despite its challenging themes and intense subject matter. This date launched a film that would indelibly stamp itself into the annals of Hollywood's golden age, particularly for its unflinching exploration of taboo subjects and its powerhouse performances that captivated a global audience.

20. Diplomacy

    Released in 1959 by Allan B. Calhamer

    First introduced in 1959, 'Diplomacy' quickly carved out a unique niche in the nascent board gaming world. Unlike its contemporaries, this grand strategy game eschewed luck-based mechanics in favor of pure negotiation, cunning, and strategic thinking. It wasn't a commercial sensation in the way a children's toy might be, but it garnered a fervent following among intellectuals, academics, and serious strategy gamers who appreciated its deep psychological warfare and complex inter-player dynamics. Its debut marked a pivotal moment, showcasing how board games could be a platform for intense human interaction and strategic depth, captivating a dedicated audience for decades.

21. Lady Chatterley's Lover

    Released in 1959 by D. H. Lawrence, Grove Press

    D. H. Lawrence's 'Lady Chatterley's Lover' exploded onto the American literary scene in 1959, not just as a novel, but as a cultural bombshell. While originally published privately in 1928, the uncensored 1959 edition by Grove Press ignited an immediate firestorm of controversy and sales. This groundbreaking publication challenged prevailing obscenity laws and prudish societal norms, becoming a flashpoint in the fight for freedom of speech. Its launch was a sensation, captivating readers and media alike, propelling the novel into the national consciousness and cementing its place as a pivotal work in the sexual revolution.

22. THE STATUS SEEKERS

    Released in 1959 by Vance Packard, David McKay

    Published in 1959, Vance Packard's groundbreaking exposé, "The Status Seekers," plunged a nation into an uncomfortable self-reflection, dissecting the intricate, often unacknowledged, class system thriving beneath America's veneer of equality. At a time of unprecedented post-war prosperity and burgeoning consumerism, Packard dared to challenge the myth of a classless society, revealing the subtle yet pervasive ways in which Americans consciously and unconsciously jockeyed for social standing. It was a mirror held up to a society obsessed with upward mobility, making visible the invisible lines that divided people based on education, occupation, income, and lifestyle choices, sparking a national conversation that reverberated for decades.

23. Troll Doll

    Released in 1959 by Thomas Dam

    The story of the Troll Doll begins not in a corporate boardroom, but in a humble workshop in Gjøl, Denmark. In 1959, woodcutter Thomas Dam was too poor to afford a Christmas gift for his young daughter, Lila. Drawing upon local Scandinavian folklore and his own imagination, he carved a small figure from wood with a charmingly pugnacious face and a tuft of woolly hair. This first creation, a simple act of fatherly love, marked the birth of the 'Good Luck Troll.' While the exact date is steeped in family lore, its conception in 1959 represents the origin point for a toy that would unexpectedly charm the world, proving that the most resonant ideas often come from the heart, not the factory.