What Happened in 1946
1946 Historical Highlights
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The United Nations held its very first meeting in London, marking an inspiring new chapter in global cooperation.
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President Harry S. Truman officially proclaimed the end of World War II, ushering in a long-awaited era of peace.
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In his memorable “Iron Curtain” address, Winston Churchill encouraged Americans to stay informed and united as the world entered a new and changing political landscape.
Truman and Churchill at "Little White House",
Potsdam, Germany.
1946 Pop Culture & Fun Facts
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At the 18th Academy Awards, The Lost Weekend took home four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Screenplay.
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The beloved holiday classic It's a Wonderful Life made its debut and would go on to warm hearts for generations.
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The glamorous Flamingo Hotel opened on the Las Vegas Strip, helping transform Vegas into an entertainment hotspot.
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1946 marked the official beginning of the Baby Boom, as birth rates soared with soldiers returning home and families growing across the country.
1946 was the official start of the baby boom.
1946 Science & Inventions
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The groundbreaking ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was unveiled, launching the computer age.
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Sweet treats and household favorites like Almond Joy, Benadryl, Tide laundry detergent, and Tupperware all made their debut.
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French designer Louis Reard introduced the modern two-piece bikini at a stylish poolside fashion show in Paris.
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The United States began nuclear testing at Bikini Atoll, marking a significant moment in the atomic era.
In 1946, the U.S. detonated a nuclear bomb underwater at Bikini Atoll in the Pacific during Operation Crossroads' Baker Test. The goal was to study the effects of nuclear blasts on warships.
1946 Sports Highlights
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NFL Championship: the Chicago Bears won 24–14 over the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds
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World Series – St. Louis Cardinals defeat the Boston Red Sox 4 games to 3.
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NBL Championship: Rochester Royals over Sheboygan Redskins (3–0).
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Stanley Cup – Montreal Canadiens beat Boston Bruins four games to one.
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Masters Tournament – Herman Keiser
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U.S. Open – Lloyd Mangrum
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U.S. Women's Open – Patty Berg
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FIFA World Cup was not held due to World War II.
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Tour de France was not contested due to World War II
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The World Figure Skating Championships were not held due to World War II.
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The Basketball Association of America was formed in New York City—later becoming the National Basketball Association (NBA).
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The San Francisco 49ers were established, kicking off a legendary football franchise.
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The Cleveland Rams relocated to Los Angeles, becoming the first professional sports team based in California.
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Jackie Robinson broke barriers as the first African American to play in organized baseball in the 20th century.
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The iconic Boston Celtics were founded in Massachusetts, beginning a basketball legacy.
Top Songs of 1946
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"Prisoner of Love" - Perry Como
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"To Each His Own" - Eddy Howard
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"The Gypsy" - The Ink Spots
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"Five Minutes More" - Frank Sinatra
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"Oh! What It Seemed to Be" - Frankie Carle
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"Doctor, Lawyer, Indian Chief" - Betty Hutton
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"Rumors Are Flying" - Frankie Carle
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"Ole Buttermilk Sky" - Kay Kyser
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"Personality" - Johnny Mercer
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"Surrender" - Perry Como
Top-Grossing Movies of 1946
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Song of the South
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Notorious
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The Best Years of Our Lives
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Duel in the Sun
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The Jolson Story
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Blue Skies
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The Postman Always Rings Twice
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Margie
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Gilda
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Night and Day
FREE 1946 Year You Were Born Printable
Click the image below to download.
