Christmas 1964 was marked by festive London scenes with grand lights and shoppers, Queen Elizabeth II's message of hope for the young generation and major news events like the devastating Pacific Northwest flood and a Canadian Santa-costumed bank robber's sentence commuted, all while pop culture saw the rise of GI Joe as a top toy and classic TV specials like Rod Serling's Carol for Another Christmas aired.
Cultural & Festive Highlights
Festive London: British Pathé footage shows dazzling Christmas lights on Regent Street, crowded West End shops and Trafalgar Square's iconic tree, bustling with shoppers enjoying the festive displays, including giant teddy bears.
Popular Toys: The GI Joe doll was a huge hit, selling for $1.95 and becoming a best-selling toy.
TV: The BBC aired programs like Play School, and the US saw Rod Serling's Carol for Another Christmas, a modern take on A Christmas Carol promoting the UN, featuring Peter Sellers in his first role post-heart attack.
Music: The Quinto Sisters recorded "A Holly Jolly Christmas," a popular holiday song.
Notable Events
The Great Christmas Flood of 1964: A massive flood, described as a "once-in-a-thousand-years" event, devastated the Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada) after warm rains followed snow, causing immense damage, livestock loss, and fatalities.
Royal Message: Queen Elizabeth II's Christmas broadcast focused on the urgent need for global cooperation, tackling poverty and the vital role of youth in building a better world.
Canadian Crime: Canadian murderer George Marcotte, who killed police while dressed as Santa, had his death sentence commuted by the cabinet just hours before his scheduled execution.
Personal Memories
People shared nostalgic memories of that Christmas, recalling black-and-white TVs, small Christmas trees on boxes and handmade gifts.
No comments:
Post a Comment