In 1957, many important events occured. Possibly the most important was, the launching of Sputnik 1, the first satellite sent into space, on October 4, 1957 by the country of Russia. This event left many American’s shocked and surprised, that it was possible to send something into space successfully.
Four months after the launch of Sputnik 1, America launches Explorer 1 the first U. S. satellite, this sparked the beginning of the space race. President Dwight D. Eisenhower sends federal troops to Little Rock, Ak, to ensure the integration of Central High School.
He also signs the Eisenhower Doctrine, promising that the United States would resist all Communist aggression in the Middle East. This year is also the year the frisbee and the hula hoop are introduced. The Boeing 707 passenger jet makes itsinnaugural flight this year as well. In Disneyland, the “House of Tomorrow” opened its doors to the public.
In the music industry Rock ; Roll as well as Doo Wop, made their statements to the world. Elvis became the king of Rock ; Roll after releasing two hit singles Jailhouse Rock and All Shook Up. Buddy Holly and the Crickets released their single That’ll Be The Day. Other career musicians who made their mark during this year include: Johnny Mathis, Paul Anka, The Everly Brothers, and Sam Cooke.
American Bandstand goes coast to coast on August 5, 1957, after being a local Philadelphia show since 1952. In ’57 Elvis made another big impression on the country besides with his music, this was the year his first movie opened it was called Love Me Tender. The same year a twenty-two year old unknown Michael Landon has the starring role in the B-movie I Was A Teenage Werewolf. As all this stuff was going on in the world, Coach Don Wilson of Bolivar, Tn was getting ready for a new season of good old highschool football. The ’57 football team was headed by captain Tommy Baker.
The Tiger team consisted of thirty-three finely tuned atheletic machines, ready for a new season of bone crunching action. The team was credited for the great Charles “Bunny” Orr also known as “the pile driver”. Orr was the states second highest scoring player that year. He managed to score 108 points for the Tigers, just seven points shy of Larry Banks of Brownsville who was the top scoring champ.
