Featured moment
Polio Epidemic Peaks
The US experienced its worst polio outbreak in history, with nearly 58,000 cases reported.
Singin' in the Rain.
Polio terrorized the US, Singin' in the Rain delighted audiences, and the UK got a new Queen.
The Cost of Living in 1952
Gallon of Gas
$0.28
Loaf of Bread
$0.16
Gallon of Milk
$0.86
World Population
2.63 billion
Featured moment
Singin' in the Rain Released
Gene Kelly's musical comedy became regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
Featured moment
Accession of Queen Elizabeth II
Following the death of King George VI, 25-year-old Elizabeth became Queen of the United Kingdom.
The wider picture
More from 1952
A few more things worth remembering.
Science & Space
First Hydrogen Bomb Tested
The US tested "Ivy Mike," a thermonuclear weapon vastly more powerful than atomic bombs.
Technology
First Passenger Jet Flight
The de Havilland Comet flew from London to Johannesburg, launching the jet age of commercial aviation.
World Events
The Great Smog of London
A severe air pollution event in London killed an estimated 4,000 to 12,000 people, leading to modern environmental laws.
Pop Culture
Mr. Potato Head Invented
The toy was the first to be advertised on television, revolutionizing the toy industry.
You arrivedin 1952.
The longer view
This was only the opening scene.
Follow the world as it changed around you, from 1952 to today.