History's Best Selling Products of 1950

From coast to coast, 1950 saw a swell surge of mid-century craze and suburban optimism in the world of items! Leading the charge were mighty, top-selling marvels like Silly Putty and Cinderella, capturing the public’s fancy in grand fashion. Distinguished creators from industry leaders like Peter Hodgson and Clyde Geronimi proved their mettle with Your Show of Shows, delivering craftsmanship that became sensational mainstays in post-war American homes. Step right up and inspect our complete, rank-ordered historical archive below!

1. Silly Putty

   Released in 1950 by Peter Hodgson

   On February 1, 1950, the world of toys was introduced to a bizarre and fascinating substance at the American International Toy Fair in New York. Marketing consultant Peter Hodgson presented a peculiar bouncing putty, an accidental byproduct of World War II research, as a novelty toy. Initially met with skepticism by most buyers, its debut on this date marks the pivotal moment when a scientific curiosity officially entered the consumer market. Hodgson, who saw potential where others saw a useless material, packaged the goo in plastic eggs and branded it 'Silly Putty.' This launch represented a gamble on the appeal of open-ended, non-traditional play in the booming post-war American economy, setting the stage for an unexpected cultural phenomenon.

2. Cinderella

   Released in 1950 by Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske, RKO Radio Pictures

   February 15, 1950, marked a pivotal moment in animation history and for Walt Disney Productions with the theatrical premiere of 'Cinderella'. This date wasn't just another film release; it was a desperate gamble for the studio, which was facing significant financial hardship after World War II and a string of less successful features. 'Cinderella' emerged as a resounding triumph, becoming Disney's greatest critical and commercial success since 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs'. Its debut on this day single-handedly revitalized the studio, saving it from potential bankruptcy and ushering in a new golden age of animated feature films, securing its enduring legacy.

3. Your Show of Shows

   Released in 1950 by Sylvester Weaver, Max Liebman, NBC

   On February 25, 1950, a cultural phenomenon was born when NBC premiered "Your Show of Shows." In the nascent days of television, most programming was experimental or adapted from radio. This live, 90-minute weekly spectacle was an audacious undertaking that redefined the possibilities of the medium. Airing every Saturday night, it was appointment television for a generation of Americans gathering around their small black-and-white screens. The premiere marked the beginning of television's 'Golden Age,' showcasing a level of comedic writing, performance, and production value that was previously unimaginable for a weekly broadcast, setting an impossibly high bar for all variety shows that would follow.

4. Samson and Delilah

   Released in 1950 by Cecil B. DeMille, Paramount Pictures

   The spectacular biblical epic "Samson and Delilah" launched with a critical wide release on March 1, 1950, captivating audiences nationwide after its initial premieres in select cities in late 1949. Directed by the legendary Cecil B. DeMille, this grand production from Paramount Pictures immediately distinguished itself, becoming a monumental box office success and the highest-grossing film of 1950. Its nationwide release marked a significant cultural event, demonstrating the enduring appeal of biblical narratives transformed into lavish cinematic spectacles. The film's opulent sets, vibrant Technicolor, and dramatic storytelling drew millions, solidifying its place as a classic of the genre and a testament to DeMille's masterful showmanship in post-war Hollywood.

5. Cheaper by the Dozen

   Released in 1950 by Walter Lang, 20th Century Fox

   The cinematic world was introduced to the delightfully unconventional Gilbreth family on April 5, 1950, with the release of 20th Century Fox's "Cheaper by the Dozen." This date marked the highly anticipated debut of a film that would quickly become a beloved family classic, captivating audiences with its heartwarming humor and unique portrayal of a sprawling household. Earning an impressive $4,425,000 at the domestic box office in its initial run, the movie emerged as one of the year's top earners, solidifying its place as a significant cultural event and demonstrating the enduring appeal of family-centric storytelling.

6. Father of the Bride

   Released in 1950 by Vincente Minnelli, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

   On June 16, 1950, a cinematic gem capturing the anxieties and joys of a father facing his daughter's wedding arrived in theaters, charming audiences and critics alike. 'Father of the Bride,' directed by Vincente Minnelli and starring the incomparable Spencer Tracy, was not just a heartwarming comedy but an immediate box office success, earning an impressive $4,036,000 in North American rentals. This date marks the beginning of its widespread theatrical run, establishing it as a cultural touchstone that explored universal themes of family, change, and the bittersweet transition of parenthood. Its launch was a significant event, solidifying its place in Hollywood's golden age.

7. Three Little Words

   Released in 1950 by Richard Thorpe, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

   On July 12th, 1950, New York City played host to the premiere of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's vibrant musical biography, 'Three Little Words.' This highly anticipated film quickly captivated audiences with its enchanting blend of music, dance, and a heartwarming true story, establishing itself as a significant cinematic event of the summer. The premiere marked the beginning of a successful theatrical run, where the movie garnered a respectable $3,019,000 at the box office. This date is particularly special as it celebrates the initial launch of a film that beautifully brought the lives and songs of Tin Pan Alley legends Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby to the silver screen, delighting viewers with its stellar cast and memorable tunes.

8. Broken Arrow

   Released in 1950 by Delmer Daves, 20th Century Fox

   On July 20, 1950, 20th Century Fox unveiled "Broken Arrow" to American audiences, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the Western genre. This was the original theatrical premiere date for a film that would not only achieve significant commercial success, grossing $3.6 million at the box office, but also ignite a crucial shift in Hollywood's portrayal of Native Americans. The release of "Broken Arrow" was celebrated for its groundbreaking attempt to present an indigenous perspective with unprecedented empathy, making this particular date significant for both its box office performance and its cultural impact on cinema, challenging deeply ingrained stereotypes of the era.

9. Water Balloon

   Released in 1950 by Edgar Ellington

   On August 29, 1950, a simple yet revolutionary idea was formally submitted to the U.S. Patent Office, forever changing the landscape of summer fun. On this day, inventor Edgar Ellington filed his patent for a 'water grenade,' a concept that would become universally known as the water balloon. Ellington's invention wasn't a complex toy with intricate mechanics; it was a brilliantly simple solution for creating a sealable, water-filled projectile designed for pure, unadulterated fun. This patent filing marks the official birth of a backyard staple, transforming a moment of inventive inspiration into a low-cost, high-excitement activity for generations of children and adults enjoying a hot summer day.

10. King Solomon's Mines

    Released in 1950 by Compton Bennett, Andrew Marton, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    On November 24, 1950, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer unleashed 'King Solomon's Mines' upon an eager American audience, marking its world theatrical premiere. This date heralded the arrival of a cinematic spectacle that would become one of the year's biggest box office hits and MGM's highest-grossing film of 1950. A vibrant Technicolor adventure filmed against the breathtaking backdrop of the African wilderness, its release captivated moviegoers with its exotic locales, thrilling narrative, and star power. This premiere date didn't just introduce a film; it launched an epic journey that would redefine the adventure genre and leave an indelible mark on cinematic history.

11. Joy Street

    Released in 1950 by Frances Parkinson Keyes, Julian Messner, Inc.

    When 'Joy Street' hit the bookshelves in 1950, it wasn't just another novel; it was an immediate sensation, cementing Frances Parkinson Keyes's reputation as a master storyteller. Launched in the post-WWII era when readers sought both escapism and substance, the book quickly captivated the American public. Its blend of high society drama, intricate relationships, and a compelling female protagonist resonated deeply, making it a cultural phenomenon and one of the year's undisputed literary powerhouses. It offered a window into a world of tradition and subtle rebellion that audiences eagerly devoured.

12. Born Yesterday

    Released in 1950 by George Cukor, Columbia Pictures

    December 26, 1950, marked the much-anticipated theatrical premiere of 'Born Yesterday,' a sharp satirical comedy that would quickly become a critical and commercial darling. This release date introduced audiences to a film that masterfully blended humor with social commentary, cementing its place as a classic. Starring Judy Holliday in her iconic, Academy Award-winning role as Billie Dawn, the movie brought the acclaimed Broadway play to the big screen with all its wit and charm intact. Its launch was a significant event, setting the stage for one of the year's most beloved cinematic achievements and validating Holliday's star power.

13. Across the River and into the Trees

    Released in 1950 by Ernest Hemingway, Scribner's

    Ernest Hemingway’s "Across the River and into the Trees," launched in 1950, immediately captured public attention, becoming one of the year’s bestselling novels. Despite a divisive critical reception, its release was a major literary event, eagerly anticipated after a decade without a new novel from the Nobel Prize-winning author. The book offered readers a poignant, albeit melancholic, narrative, delving into themes of war, love, and mortality through its disillusioned protagonist. Its sheer presence on bestseller lists underlined Hemingway's enduring star power and a public hunger for his distinctive voice, solidifying its place as a significant cultural phenomenon in post-war America.

14. Beyond This Place

    Released in 1950 by A. J. Cronin, Little, Brown and Company

    A. J. Cronin's 'Beyond This Place' burst onto the literary scene in 1950, immediately captivating readers with its gripping narrative of injustice and relentless pursuit of truth. At a time when post-war societies were grappling with social issues and a yearning for moral rectitude, Cronin’s novel struck a profound chord. Its compelling drama and empathetic characterization ensured its rapid ascent up the bestseller charts, solidifying its place as a significant cultural phenomenon of the mid-20th century. The book offered both a thrilling mystery and a poignant commentary on human resilience.

15. Floodtide

    Released in 1950 by Frank Yerby, Dial Press

    In 1950, Frank Yerby cemented his status as a publishing phenomenon with the release of 'Floodtide,' a historical novel that surged onto bestseller lists and captivated a nation eager for dramatic escapism. Following a string of successful historical romances, 'Floodtide' confirmed Yerby's unparalleled ability to blend adventure, romance, and richly detailed historical backdrops into immensely readable narratives. Its immediate popularity wasn't just a testament to Yerby's storytelling prowess but also reflected a cultural appetite for narratives that, while set in the past, offered a thrilling, if often controversial, lens through which to explore themes of identity, ambition, and societal constraints. 'Floodtide' wasn't just a book; it was a cultural event that dominated conversations and bookshelves across America.

16. Jubilee Trail

    Released in 1950 by Gwen Bristow, Thomas Y. Crowell Co.

    Jubilee Trail" burst onto the American literary scene in 1950, quickly establishing itself as a dominant force on bestseller lists and captivating readers across the nation. This sweeping historical novel offered an escape into the dramatic landscape of the American West during the mid-19th century, blending romance, adventure, and the harsh realities of frontier life. Its release marked a significant cultural moment, as readers eagerly devoured Gwen Bristow’s meticulously researched narrative, finding both inspiration and excitement in the trials and triumphs of its pioneering characters. The book's immediate popularity cemented its place as a quintessential example of historical fiction from the era.

17. Schleich

    Released in 1950 by Schleich GmbH, Friedrich Schleich

    Schleich, a name synonymous with exquisitely crafted figurines, has been a beloved fixture in toy boxes for decades. While the company's roots trace back to 1935, it truly began its journey into children's imaginations with the introduction of its first toy figurines in the 1950s. Initially diversifying with popular comic characters, Schleich gradually evolved into the iconic brand recognized today for its realistic animal and fantasy figures. This pivot to detailed, hand-painted models captured the hearts of countless children worldwide, establishing Schleich not just as a toy maker, but as a purveyor of miniature worlds waiting to be explored, encouraging boundless creativity and a connection to nature.

18. Skinny Jeans

    Released in 1950 by Multiple Brands, No single designer

    Skinny jeans burst onto the fashion scene in the mid-20th century, notably gaining traction in the 1950s as "drainpipe" or "pencil" pants. Initially embraced by rebellious youth, rock 'n' roll icons like Elvis Presley, and glamorous film stars such as Audrey Hepburn, their sleek, form-fitting silhouette offered a stark contrast to the looser styles of the era. This immediate association with cutting-edge culture and a defiant attitude made them an instant success, symbolizing a new era of self-expression and modern cool. What began as a subcultural statement quickly cemented its place as a powerful symbol of rebellion and individuality, foreshadowing its eventual transformation into a global fashion staple.

19. MA-1 bomber jacket

    Released in 1950 by US Department of Defense, Alpha Industries

    The MA-1 bomber jacket, a silhouette instantly recognizable worldwide, didn't begin its life on fashion runways but in the cockpits of American fighter jets. Introduced in 1950, it quickly became the official flight jacket for U.S. Air Force and Navy pilots, replacing the bulkier B-15 jacket. Its superior design, tailored for the demands of high-altitude flight and the emerging jet age, offered unparalleled warmth, flexibility, and durability. This highly functional piece of military equipment, originally designed for extreme environments, possessed an inherent coolness and utilitarian aesthetic that would later propel it far beyond its military origins, securing its place as an enduring symbol of rugged style and effortless cool across diverse subcultures and mainstream fashion.

20. The Cardinal

    Released in 1950 by Henry Morton Robinson, Simon & Schuster

    Published in the nascent post-war era of 1950, Henry Morton Robinson's 'The Cardinal' was an immediate and colossal literary sensation. Leaping to the top of bestseller lists, it quickly became the Publishers Weekly #1 Bestselling Novel of the year, captivating millions of readers across America. This ambitious epic delved deep into the inner sanctums of the Roman Catholic Church, offering an unprecedented and intimate look at the life and struggles of a modern priest. Its blend of spiritual drama, human ambition, and personal sacrifice struck a profound chord with a nation grappling with faith and institutional power, cementing its status as a significant cultural phenomenon of the mid-20th century.

21. The Disenchanted

    Released in 1950 by Budd Schulberg, Random House

    The Disenchanted, Budd Schulberg's poignant novel, burst onto the American literary scene in 1950, quickly establishing itself as a significant cultural phenomenon and a Publishers Weekly #10 Bestseller. Readers were captivated by its raw, unflinching portrayal of Hollywood's gilded cage and the tragic decline of a literary giant. At a time when the myth of the American dream was still potent, Schulberg dared to peel back the layers, revealing the human cost of fame and artistic compromise. Its immediate success underscored a collective fascination with the dark side of celebrity and the ghosts of the Jazz Age, making it a talked-about book in living rooms and literary circles alike, cementing its place in mid-century American literature.

22. The Lonely Crowd

    Released in 1950 by David Riesman, Yale University Press

    "The Lonely Crowd," published in 1950, stands as a seminal work in American sociology, profoundly influencing the understanding of post-World War II society. Its release at the cusp of a new decade perfectly captured the anxieties and transformations of a nation grappling with newfound prosperity, suburbanization, and the rise of corporate culture. Riesman's insights into the evolving American character provided a critical lens through which to examine the burgeoning consumer society and the pressures of conformity, making it an indispensable text for comprehending the social fabric of mid-20th-century America and its lingering effects. Its impact resonated across academic disciplines and public discourse, shaping perceptions of modern life.

23. The Parasites

    Released in 1950 by Daphne du Maurier, Victor Gollancz Ltd

    The Parasites, a compelling and emotionally charged novel by the inimitable Daphne du Maurier, burst onto the literary scene in 1950, quickly captivating readers on both sides of the Atlantic. Following the resounding successes of her earlier works like 'Rebecca' and 'My Cousin Rachel,' this new offering solidified du Maurier's reputation as a master of psychological fiction and atmospheric storytelling. Its immediate popularity propelled it to become a Publishers Weekly #6 Bestseller of the year, cementing its status as a significant cultural phenomenon. Readers were drawn to its intricate family dynamics and bohemian setting, finding both intrigue and a mirror to the complex human relationships that define our lives, all wrapped in du Maurier's signature evocative prose.

24. Winklepicker

    Released in 1950 by United Kingdom fashion industry, Various designers

    Emerging from the sartorial rebellion of post-war Britain, the Winklepicker shoe burst onto the fashion scene in the 1950s, immediately capturing the imagination of a new generation. With its aggressively pointed toe, this distinctive footwear became an instant emblem of defiance against the drab conformity of the era. It wasn't just a shoe; it was a statement, a visual declaration of belonging to a burgeoning subculture. Its sharp silhouette perfectly complemented the sharp suits and slicked-back hair of the Teddy Boys, signaling a confident, sometimes menacing, shift in youth culture that would ripple through decades of fashion.