Featured moment
DNA Structure Discovered
Watson, Crick, and Franklin revealed the double helix structure of DNA, transforming modern biology.
The double helix and Playboy.
The structure of DNA was discovered, Mount Everest was conquered, and Playboy magazine launched.
The Cost of Living in 1953
Gallon of Gas
$0.28
Loaf of Bread
$0.16
Gallon of Milk
$0.88
World Population
2.67 billion
Featured moment
Mount Everest Conquered
Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest.
Featured moment
Playboy Magazine Debuts
Hugh Hefner launched the magazine with Marilyn Monroe on the cover, helping spark the sexual revolution.
The wider picture
More from 1953
A few more things worth remembering.
World Events
Korean War Armistice
An armistice was signed, establishing the DMZ and halting combat, though no official peace treaty was ever signed.
Science & Space
Polio Vaccine Announced
Dr. Jonas Salk announced the successful testing of a vaccine against polio on a national radio broadcast.
World Events
Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II
The coronation at Westminster Abbey was the first major international event broadcast live on television.
Technology
Color Television Standard Adopted
The FCC approved the NTSC color television standard, which remained in use until the digital transition.
You arrivedin 1953.
The longer view
This was only the opening scene.
Follow the world as it changed around you, from 1953 to today.