History's Best Selling Products of 1946

Hats off to 1946! Few items commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as So Well Remembered. Alongside sensationally popular hits like Night and Day and Bikini, consumers eagerly embraced the swell Yankee ingenuity and home-front craftsmanship. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like James Hilton and Michael Curtiz set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that swept main street from coast to coast as genuine top-flight hits. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. So Well Remembered

   Released in 1946 by James Hilton, Little, Brown and Company

   ‘So Well Remembered’ burst onto the literary scene in 1946, capturing the hearts of a post-war America hungry for stories that explored human resilience and moral dilemmas amidst everyday life. James Hilton, already a celebrated author, delivered a novel that quickly ascended the bestseller charts, becoming the seventh highest-selling fiction title of the year according to Publishers Weekly. Its immediate popularity wasn't just due to Hilton's established name; the book's poignant narrative about a man's unwavering integrity in the face of personal adversity struck a deep chord with readers navigating their own complex realities in a world forever changed by conflict. It offered both solace and reflection, making it a significant cultural touchstone of its time.

2. Night and Day

   Released in 1946 by Michael Curtiz, Warner Bros.

   On July 2, 1946, the musical biopic 'Night and Day' premiered, bringing the life and music of the legendary composer Cole Porter to the silver screen. This highly anticipated Warner Bros. production, starring Cary Grant as Porter, marked a significant event in Hollywood's Golden Age, blending lavish production values with a vibrant score. Its release signaled a major commercial success for the studio, leveraging Porter's enduring popularity and Grant's star power to achieve impressive box office results. This premiere date is special as it introduced audiences to a romanticized yet engaging portrayal of one of America's greatest songwriters, setting the stage for its considerable financial and cultural impact.

3. Bikini

   Released in 1946 by Louis Réard

   The bikini made its explosive debut on July 5, 1946, at a Parisian public pool, instantly sending shockwaves through a post-war world unaccustomed to such sartorial audacity. Named after the Bikini Atoll, where atomic bomb tests were then underway, its creator, Louis Réard, famously declared it "smaller than the world's smallest swimsuit." Its launch was less a fashion show and more a cultural detonation, met with both moral outrage and undeniable fascination. Initially struggling to find a model willing to wear the scandalous two-piece, Réard hired a nude dancer, Micheline Bernardini, whose fearless presentation cemented the bikini's place in history, promising a revolution in beachwear and women's liberation.

4. The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care

   Released in 1946 by Benjamin Spock, Duell, Sloan and Pearce

   Published in 1946, just as millions of American soldiers returned home and embarked on family life, [Benjamin Spock]'s "The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care" arrived at a pivotal moment, fundamentally altering the landscape of child-rearing in the United States and beyond. This seminal work provided a comforting, accessible guide for the burgeoning Baby Boom generation's parents, many of whom were navigating parenthood for the first time amidst post-war prosperity and evolving social norms. Its release marked a significant departure from previous, more rigid parenting philosophies, offering a humanistic approach that resonated deeply with a population eager for guidance that felt both authoritative and empathetic. The book's timing was impeccable, meeting an unprecedented demand for advice that would shape the socialization of an entire generation.

5. Notorious

   Released in 1946 by Alfred Hitchcock, RKO Radio Pictures

   On August 15, 1946, Alfred Hitchcock's espionage thriller "Notorious" premiered, captivating audiences and critics alike. This cinematic masterpiece, starring Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant, immediately cemented its place as a classic of the suspense genre. The film's debut in New York City marked the arrival of a tense, psychologically rich narrative that not only delivered thrilling entertainment but also explored complex themes of love, duty, and betrayal against a post-war backdrop. Its commercial success, far exceeding its budget, underscored Hitchcock's mastery and the magnetic appeal of its leading stars, making this release date a significant moment in film history.

6. Magic 8 Ball

   Released in 1946 by Alabe Crafts

   On September 10, 1946, a patent application was filed that would give birth to a cultural icon of divination and novelty. The invention, initially dubbed the 'Syco-Seer,' was the brainchild of Albert C. Carter, who was inspired by a 'spirit writing' device his clairvoyant mother used. He partnered with novelty-maker Abe Bookman of Alabe Crafts to bring the concept to life. This patent filing marked the official beginning of the liquid-filled, answer-providing sphere. Although Carter would not live to see its success, this legal step protected the unique mechanism that would eventually be encased in a black billiard ball, becoming the Magic 8 Ball known and loved worldwide.

7. The Jolson Story

   Released in 1946 by Alfred E. Green, Columbia Pictures

   The Jolson Story premiered on October 10, 1946, marking the dazzling debut of one of the most successful biographical films in Hollywood history. This particular date signifies its initial release, launching a cinematic phenomenon that captivated audiences with its vibrant portrayal of legendary entertainer Al Jolson. The film was an immediate sensation, quickly becoming a massive box office hit and revitalizing Jolson's career. Its release set a new benchmark for musical biopics, drawing millions to theaters eager to witness the rags-to-riches tale of "The World's Greatest Entertainer," cementing its place as a monumental event in 1940s cinema and a testament to the enduring power of a good story.

8. Blue Skies

   Released in 1946 by Stuart Heisler, Paramount Pictures

   The premiere of "Blue Skies" on October 16, 1946, marked a significant moment in Hollywood's Golden Age, bringing together two of its biggest stars, Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, in a vibrant Technicolor musical. This date ushered in a film renowned for its spectacular musical numbers and an impressive array of Irving Berlin songs, many of them new, alongside beloved classics. The movie quickly ascended to become one of the year's highest-grossing pictures, dazzling audiences with its energetic performances and romantic narrative. This initial showing in New York set the stage for a nationwide holiday release, cementing "Blue Skies" as a quintessential example of post-war escapism and a showcase for legendary talent.

9. The Razor's Edge

   Released in 1946 by Edmund Goulding, 20th Century-Fox

   On October 20, 1946, audiences first encountered the profound spiritual journey of 'The Razor's Edge' when it premiered in New York City. This date marked the launch of a significant cinematic adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham's acclaimed novel, immediately captivating critics and moviegoers alike. The film proved to be a major commercial success for 20th Century-Fox, securing its place as one of the year's most talked-about dramas. Its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and thoughtful exploration of existential themes made its debut a special moment in Hollywood history, signaling a triumph for sophisticated storytelling on the big screen.

10. The Best Years of Our Lives

    Released in 1946 by William Wyler, RKO Radio Pictures

    November 21, 1946, marked the world theatrical premiere of 'The Best Years of Our Lives,' a cinematic landmark that resonated deeply with a nation grappling with the aftermath of World War II. This date was not just a release; it was a cultural event, ushering in a film that would sweep the Academy Awards and become the highest-grossing movie since 'Gone with the Wind.' Its launch represented a poignant moment for audiences, offering an unflinching look at the challenges faced by returning veterans. The film's immediate and overwhelming success cemented this premiere date as a pivotal moment in Hollywood history, signaling the arrival of a timeless classic.

11. The Yearling

    Released in 1946 by Clarence Brown, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    On December 13, 1946, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer unveiled 'The Yearling' to audiences, marking the premiere of what would become a beloved Technicolor classic. This date launched a film that would go on to achieve significant box office success for its era, earning critical acclaim and several Academy Award nominations. 'The Yearling' was more than just a movie; it was a sensitive and visually stunning adaptation of a cherished novel, captivating moviegoers with its heartfelt narrative about a boy, his pet fawn, and the harsh realities of rural life. Its debut was a major event, positioning it as one of the cinematic highlights of the post-war period and setting the stage for its enduring legacy as a timeless family drama.

12. Saratoga Trunk

    Released in 1946 by Sam Wood, Warner Bros.

    Saratoga Trunk, a lavish romantic drama starring Ingrid Bergman and Gary Cooper, marked its first commercial debut with a New York City premiere on December 24, 1945. Though initially unveiled just days before the year's end, it was the subsequent nationwide release throughout 1946 that truly cemented its place in cinematic history, driving its impressive box office performance. This particular release strategy, a common occurrence for prestige pictures of the era, positioned it as a major release for the post-war audience, eagerly anticipating the star power and grand storytelling it promised. The film's journey to the screen was as dramatic as its plot, having faced significant delays before finally gracing theaters and ultimately achieving considerable financial success.

13. Duel in the Sun

    Released in 1946 by King Vidor, RKO Radio Pictures

    On December 31, 1946, the highly anticipated and famously controversial film 'Duel in the Sun' made its grand premiere, marking a significant moment in Hollywood history. Touted as producer David O. Selznick's follow-up to 'Gone with the Wind,' this Technicolor epic was an ambitious, no-expense-spared production that ignited both public fascination and moral outrage. The film's launch on this New Year's Eve set the stage for its dramatic reception, foreshadowing its massive box office success despite, or perhaps because of, the intense controversies it stirred. Its premiere was not just a film release; it was a cultural event, immediately dubbed 'Lust in the Dust' by critics and audiences alike, signifying its bold and often explicit themes that pushed the boundaries of cinematic storytelling for its era.

14. Jelly shoes

    Released in 1946 by Meduse, Grendene

    Jelly shoes burst onto the global fashion scene in the 1980s, becoming an instant sensation and a must-have accessory for children, teenagers, and even adults. Their immediate popularity stemmed from their vibrant, often translucent colors, playful aesthetic, and affordable price point, making them accessible to a broad audience. While their widespread commercial success peaked in the 80s, the conceptual roots of these unique plastic shoes trace back to post-World War II Europe. This ingenious footwear offered a refreshing departure from traditional leather shoes, embodying a spirit of casual fun and setting a new trend for unconventional materials in mainstream fashion.

15. RCA 630-TS Television (TV)

    Released in 1946 by RCA

    The RCA 630-TS was the ultimate catalyst for the modern television age. Released in 1946 immediately following World War II, this pioneering tabletop receiver turned a luxury technological novelty into an absolute domestic phenomenon. By capturing the public's imagination and establishing the definitive technical blueprint for early home entertainment, it sparked a post-war broadcasting boom that permanently rocked the world and transformed global media, culture, and society.

16. Stratego

    Released in 1946 by Jumbo Games, Jacques Johan Mogendorff

    First introduced by the Dutch company Jumbo in 1946, Stratego swiftly established itself as a cornerstone in the world of tactical board games. Building upon older European military strategy games, this iconic title captured the imaginations of players with its innovative hidden information mechanic, creating a unique blend of strategic planning, deduction, and bluffing. Its immediate success wasn't just due to its clever gameplay but also its accessible theme of battlefield command, allowing players to feel like master strategists from the comfort of their living rooms. Stratego transcended mere entertainment, becoming a cultural touchstone that has been enjoyed by generations, proving its enduring appeal as a game of wits and deception.

17. The Foxes of Harrow

    Released in 1946 by Frank Yerby, Dial Press

    When 'The Foxes of Harrow' burst onto the literary scene in 1946, it wasn't just another historical romance; it was a cultural phenomenon that catapulted its author, Frank Yerby, into unprecedented stardom. Published in the immediate aftermath of World War II, a time when audiences craved thrilling escapism, Yerby's debut novel delivered a sweeping saga of ambition, passion, and betrayal set against the opulent, yet morally complex, backdrop of 19th-century Louisiana. Its immediate popularity wasn't merely due to its gripping narrative, but also because it defied racial barriers in mainstream publishing, marking a significant, albeit controversial, moment in American literary history as readers across the nation devoured its pages.

18. The King's General

    Released in 1946 by Daphne du Maurier, Doubleday

    Released in 1946, 'The King's General' by Daphne du Maurier instantly captivated a world weary of war and hungry for compelling historical escapism. Landing just as World War II concluded, this sweeping tale of loyalty, love, and betrayal amidst the English Civil War offered readers a powerful narrative anchor in tumultuous times. Du Maurier, already a household name due to her earlier successes like 'Rebecca' and 'Jamaica Inn,' further cemented her status as a literary phenomenon, delivering a novel that resonated deeply with the public's desire for romance, adventure, and a glimpse into a dramatic past.

19. The Miracle of the Bells

    Released in 1946 by Russell Janney, Prentice-Hall

    In 1946, as the world emerged from the shadow of World War II, Russell Janney's 'The Miracle of the Bells' captured the public imagination, becoming an instant bestseller and a cultural phenomenon. This poignant novel, blending faith, Hollywood glamour, and small-town charm, offered a much-needed narrative of hope and the extraordinary in ordinary lives. Its launch was met with fervent enthusiasm, quickly climbing bestseller lists and establishing itself as a dominant force in post-war American literature. The book's heartfelt story of love, sacrifice, and a seemingly impossible event resonated deeply with readers yearning for spiritual solace and a touch of the miraculous amidst a world grappling with immense change.