History's Best Selling Products of 1968

1. Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In

   Released in 1968 by George Schlatter

   On January 22, 1968, American television was hit by a psychedelic tidal wave of comedy as "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In" premiered on NBC. This was not just another variety show; it was a revolutionary, rapid-fire barrage of sketches, one-liners, and non-sequiturs that perfectly captured the chaotic spirit of the late 1960s. Its debut marked the beginning of a cultural phenomenon that would dominate ratings, inject unforgettable catchphrases into the national lexicon, and forever change the pace and style of television comedy, making it a true best-seller of the broadcast era.

2. Steppenwolf

   Released in 1968 by John Kay, Michael Monarch, Goldy McJohn, Rushton Moreve, Jerry Edmonton, ABC Dunhill Records

   On January 29, 1968, the rock landscape was jolted by the release of the self-titled debut album from Steppenwolf. At a time when the psychedelic sounds of San Francisco were dominating the airwaves, this album brought a harder, grittier, and blues-infused edge to rock and roll. Unleashed by ABC Dunhill Records, "Steppenwolf" was more than just a collection of songs; it was a mission statement. It introduced the world to the powerful vocals of John Kay and a raw, driving sound that laid crucial groundwork for what would soon be called hard rock and heavy metal. The album's release on this day marked the arrival of a band that would define the sound of rebellion and freedom for a generation, most notably with a track that would become a timeless cultural anthem.

3. Planet of the Apes

   Released in 1968 by Franklin J. Schaffner, 20th Century Fox

   On February 8, 1968, the cinematic landscape was forever altered with the premiere of 'Planet of the Apes' in New York City. This landmark science fiction film didn't just captivate audiences with its groundbreaking premise and unforgettable ending; it launched a massively successful franchise and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its initial release sparked immediate critical buzz and strong box office returns, quickly establishing it as a cultural phenomenon. The film's daring narrative, tackling complex themes through a visually stunning allegory, ensured that this particular date would be remembered as the genesis of a true movie classic, setting the stage for decades of discussion and influence.

4. Columbo

   Released in 1968 by Richard Levinson & William Link, NBC, ABC

   On February 20, 1968, television audiences were introduced to a new kind of detective. The broadcast of 'Prescription: Murder' on NBC was not the series premiere, but a standalone television movie that served as the pilot for what would become 'Columbo.' Starring Peter Falk as the deceptively brilliant Lieutenant Columbo, the film established the show's signature 'inverted detective story' format, where the audience witnesses the murder and knows the killer's identity from the outset. Its success was a proof-of-concept, demonstrating the immense appeal of watching the disheveled but genius detective slowly and methodically ensnare his arrogant and sophisticated prey, setting the stage for a television classic.

5. Myra Breckinridge

   Released in 1968 by Gore Vidal, Little, Brown and Company

   Myra Breckinridge exploded onto the literary scene in 1968, a year synonymous with cultural upheaval and challenging norms. Gore Vidal’s audacious novel was an immediate sensation, not merely for its provocative title but for its unapologetic exploration of gender transformation, sexual identity, and a scathing critique of American society. It quickly became a runaway bestseller, captivating readers with its blend of outrageous humor, intellectual wit, and shocking premise. The book was more than just a popular read; it was a cultural flashpoint, igniting fierce debates and solidifying Vidal's reputation as a fearless provocateur who dared to expose the hypocrisies of his time, making it an indispensable artifact of the late 1960s counterculture.

6. We’re Only In It For the Money

   Released in 1968 by The Mothers Of Invention, Verve Records

   On March 4, 1968, Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention released their third studio album, "We're Only in It for the Money." The album arrived at a pivotal moment in the 1960s counterculture, serving as a scathing and hilarious satire of the very movement it was a part of. Released less than a year after The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," Zappa's work was a direct, audacious parody of the "Summer of Love" ethos, hippie culture, and the commercialization of psychedelia. Its release on this date cemented Zappa's reputation as one of rock music's most brilliant and uncompromising social critics, offering a cynical yet insightful counterpoint to the era's prevailing optimism.

7. Romeo and Juliet

   Released in 1968 by Franco Zeffirelli, Paramount Pictures

   The cinematic world was forever changed on March 5, 1968, with the premiere of Franco Zeffirelli’s "Romeo and Juliet" in the United Kingdom. This date marked the introduction of a groundbreaking adaptation of Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, captivating audiences with its youthful energy and visual splendor. Breaking records for a Shakespearean film, it demonstrated that classical literature could be both artistically profound and commercially successful. This specific release date is special as it initiated the film's global journey, setting the stage for its eventual critical acclaim and robust box office performance, solidifying its place as a quintessential cinematic interpretation of the star-crossed lovers.

8. Toyota Hilux

   Released in 1968 by Toyota

   On March 21, 1968, Toyota unveiled a vehicle that would become a global icon of durability: the first-generation Hilux (N10). Launched into a post-war Japanese economy that was rapidly modernizing, there was a growing demand for a light commercial vehicle that was both tough and versatile. The Hilux was Toyota's answer, engineered to replace its predecessors, the Briska and the Stout, by offering a more modern design that blended utility with car-like comfort. This debut marked a pivotal moment for Toyota, as the Hilux was not just a new truck; it was the foundation of a legacy built on unparalleled reliability that would soon conquer markets across the world.

9. 2001: A Space Odyssey

   Released in 1968 by Stanley Kubrick, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

   On April 3, 1968, Stanley Kubrick's science fiction epic "2001: A Space Odyssey" held its New York premiere, forever altering the landscape of cinematic possibilities. Released in the midst of the Space Race and a year before humanity would set foot on the Moon, the film tapped directly into the public's fascination with space exploration while transcending it entirely. It was not merely a story about technology but a profound, often mystifying, philosophical inquiry into human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the nature of existence itself. The film's premiere was a major cultural event, heralding the arrival of a new kind of blockbuster—one that challenged its audience with abstract ideas and groundbreaking visual spectacle rather than conventional narrative.

10. Bookends

    Released in 1968 by Simon & Garfunkel, Columbia Records

    On April 3, 1968, as the cultural landscape of America was undergoing seismic shifts, Simon & Garfunkel released their fourth studio album, "Bookends." The album arrived at a pivotal moment, reflecting the anxieties and contemplations of a generation grappling with war, civil rights, and the passage of time. It was a concept album of sorts, with the first side tracing the journey of life from childhood to old age, perfectly capturing the introspective mood of the era. The album's release was also buoyed by the inclusion of "Mrs. Robinson," a song that had become a national sensation through its prominent feature in the landmark film "The Graduate."

11. The Odd Couple

    Released in 1968 by Gene Saks, Paramount Pictures

    On May 2, 1968, Paramount Pictures unveiled 'The Odd Couple' to the world, a cinematic adaptation that brought Neil Simon's uproarious stage play to the big screen. This premiere date marked the beginning of a remarkable theatrical run for the film, which quickly cemented its place as a comedy classic and a significant box office success for its era. The movie's sharp wit, brilliant performances by Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, and universally relatable themes of friendship and cohabitation resonated deeply with audiences, making this initial release a pivotal moment in film history. It wasn't just another comedy; it was a cultural phenomenon in the making, destined for enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

12. Hot Wheels

    Released in 1968 by Mattel

    On May 18, 1968, the landscape of toy cars was forever changed. On this day, Mattel unleashed Hot Wheels upon the world, with the very first car to roll off the production line being a sleek, dark blue Custom Camaro. At the time, the die-cast market was dominated by the more traditional and realistic Matchbox cars from England. Mattel's co-founder, Elliot Handler, envisioned something different: a toy car that was not just a miniature replica, but a souped-up, stylized 'hot rod' that embodied the vibrant Southern California car culture. The release on this date marked a radical departure, emphasizing speed, performance, and fantasy design, setting the stage for a new king of the miniature road.

13. Rosemary's Baby

    Released in 1968 by Roman Polanski, Paramount Pictures

    Rosemary's Baby, a chilling psychological horror masterpiece, first captivated audiences with its unsettling dread upon its premiere on June 12, 1968. This date marked the initial unveiling of a film that would redefine the genre, presenting a subtle yet deeply disturbing narrative of paranoia and maternal terror. Its launch was not merely a cinematic event but a cultural phenomenon, quickly establishing itself as a critical and commercial success. The film's remarkable box office performance solidified its place as one of the year's most impactful releases, demonstrating how a meticulously crafted horror film could transcend mere scares to achieve profound artistic and social relevance, forever altering expectations for the supernatural thriller.

14. In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida

    Released in 1968 by Iron Butterfly, Atco Records

    On June 14, 1968, the sound of rock music was stretched to its epic, psychedelic limits with the release of Iron Butterfly's second studio album, "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida". The album arrived during a pivotal year of cultural and political upheaval, and its sound captured the heavy, mind-expanding zeitgeist of the late 1960s. While the first side contained relatively concise psychedelic pop songs, it was the second side, consumed entirely by the 17-minute title track, that cemented the album's place in history. This audacious piece of music became an anthem for the burgeoning hard rock and heavy metal scenes, making the album a landmark release that bridged the gap between psychedelic rock and heavier genres to come.

15. A Saucerful of Secrets

    Released in 1968 by Pink Floyd, Columbia Graphophone Company

    On June 29, 1968, Pink Floyd released their second studio album, "A Saucerful of Secrets," in the United Kingdom. This date marks a pivotal and poignant moment in the band's history. The album serves as a crucial transitional document, capturing the group as they navigated the departure of their original visionary leader, Syd Barrett, whose deteriorating mental state made his continued participation untenable. Simultaneously, it chronicles the integration of his replacement, David Gilmour. The result is a sonic bridge between the whimsical, Syd-led psychedelia of their debut and the grand, conceptual progressive rock that would later define their legendary status, making this release a fascinating and essential chapter in the Pink Floyd saga.

16. Wheels of Fire

    Released in 1968 by Cream, Polydor Records, Atco Records

    On August 9, 1968, the rock world experienced a seismic shift with the release of Cream's third album, "Wheels of Fire." This monumental project arrived as the supergroup trio of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker stood at the pinnacle of their international fame and creative prowess. The album was far more than a simple collection of new tracks; it was a groundbreaking artistic statement packaged as a double album. One disc, "In the Studio," offered new, meticulously crafted songs, while the other, "Live at the Fillmore," captured the band's incendiary and improvisational concert energy. This novel format perfectly encapsulated the dual identity of Cream, showcasing them as both psychedelic studio innovators and virtuosic live performers, setting a new standard for rock albums.

17. Funny Girl

    Released in 1968 by William Wyler, Columbia Pictures

    September 19, 1968, marked the grand premiere of 'Funny Girl,' a cinematic triumph that cemented Barbra Streisand's status as a global superstar. The film's launch was a highly anticipated event, bringing the beloved Broadway musical to the big screen with its original, powerhouse leading lady. From its very first showing in New York City, 'Funny Girl' captivated audiences, showcasing a blend of humor, drama, and unforgettable musical numbers. This date is special not only because it introduced the world to one of the most iconic movie musicals of all time but also because it kicked off a hugely successful box office run, propelling the film to become one of the highest-grossing movies of 1968 and earning Streisand an Academy Award for Best Actress in her film debut.

18. Oliver!

    Released in 1968 by Carol Reed, Romulus Films, Columbia Pictures

    On September 26, 1968, the musical film "Oliver!" held its world premiere in London, England. This lavish production brought Lionel Bart's hugely successful stage musical, itself an adaptation of Charles Dickens's classic 1838 novel "Oliver Twist," to the big screen. In a decade marked by social and cultural upheaval, the film offered a grand, if sanitized, escape into Victorian London, filled with memorable songs and spectacular choreography. Its premiere was a major cinematic event, setting the stage for an incredible run of commercial success and critical acclaim that would culminate in the film winning the Academy Award for Best Picture, a rare feat for a musical.

19. The Lion in Winter

    Released in 1968 by Anthony Harvey, Avco Embassy Pictures

    The world first witnessed the raw, electric power of 'The Lion in Winter' on October 15, 1968, a date that marked the premiere of a film destined for cinematic legend. This historical drama, renowned for its brilliant script and stellar performances, wasn't just a critical darling; it roared at the box office, becoming a significant commercial success for Avco Embassy Pictures. Its initial release heralded a new benchmark for historical narratives, blending sharp wit with profound emotional depth. This specific premiere date is pivotal, representing the moment audiences were introduced to the unforgettable, feuding royal family of Henry II, setting the stage for its enduring legacy as a masterpiece of dialogue and character study.

20. Bullitt

    Released in 1968 by Peter Yates, Warner Bros.-Seven Arts

    October 17, 1968, marked a pivotal moment in cinematic history with the U.S. theatrical premiere of 'Bullitt'. This date unleashed a film that would not only captivate audiences but also redefine the action-thriller genre, largely thanks to its groundbreaking car chase sequence and Steve McQueen's iconic performance. Earning significant box office success and critical acclaim, 'Bullitt' immediately established itself as a cultural phenomenon. Its gritty realism and innovative filmmaking techniques cemented its place as a classic, forever associated with its star and the thrilling streets of San Francisco. This premiere date initiated a legacy that continues to influence filmmakers and entertain viewers decades later.

21. The Beatles

    Released in 1968 by The Beatles, Apple Records

    Released on November 22, 1968, the self-titled double album by The Beatles, universally known as 'The White Album,' arrived as a stark, sprawling counterpoint to the psychedelic grandeur of the previous year's 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.' The band had recently returned from a transcendental meditation retreat in Rishikesh, India, where many of the album's songs were written. Expectations were impossibly high, but instead of a unified concept, the world received a fragmented, eclectic, and deeply personal collection of 30 songs that showcased the four members pulling in different creative directions, a fascinating public document of a band at its peak yet beginning to splinter.

22. Beggars Banquet

    Released in 1968 by The Rolling Stones, Decca Records, London Records

    On December 6, 1968, The Rolling Stones released "Beggars Banquet," an album that dramatically shifted their musical direction and cemented their reputation as "The Greatest Rock and Roll Band in the World." Arriving amidst a year of global political and social upheaval, the album served as a gritty, acoustic-driven soundtrack to the times. It marked a deliberate departure from the psychedelic experimentation of their previous album, "Their Satanic Majesties Request," and a powerful return to the blues, country, and rock 'n' roll roots that had initially inspired them. The release was a landmark event, not just for the band, but for rock music as a whole, showcasing a new level of lyrical sophistication and raw, stripped-down musicality that would define their most celebrated era.

23. Computer Mouse

    Released in 1968 by Douglas Engelbart, SRI International

    On December 9, 1968, at the Fall Joint Computer Conference in San Francisco, Douglas Engelbart and his team from the Augmentation Research Center at SRI presented a 90-minute live demonstration that would later be dubbed 'The Mother of All Demos.' This event was not a product launch but a stunning revelation of a future vision for computing. Engelbart introduced a comprehensive system called the oN-Line System (NLS), and for the first time publicly, he used a small, wheeled device to navigate the graphical interface: the computer mouse. This date marks the moment the world was introduced to a new paradigm of human-computer interaction, fundamentally changing the course of technology.

24. Blood, Sweat & Tears

    Released in 1968 by Blood, Sweat & Tears, Columbia Records

    On December 11, 1968, the landscape of rock music was significantly altered with the release of Blood, Sweat & Tears' self-titled second album. This release was not just another record; it marked a pivotal moment for the burgeoning jazz-rock fusion movement. The album arrived after a major lineup change, most notably the departure of founder Al Kooper and the introduction of powerhouse vocalist David Clayton-Thomas. This new configuration of the band would go on to define its signature sound, blending complex jazz horn arrangements and improvisation with the accessibility and drive of rock and pop music, setting a new standard for musical sophistication on the pop charts.

25. Yours, Mine and Ours

    Released in 1968 by Melville Shavelson, United Artists

    December 18, 1968, marked the theatrical debut of 'Yours, Mine and Ours,' a heartwarming and chaotic family comedy that instantly captured the hearts of audiences. This date heralded the launch of a movie that would go on to become a significant box office success for United Artists, pairing two of Hollywood's most beloved stars, Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda, in a tale of an impossibly large blended family. The film's premiere cemented its place as a holiday season favorite, drawing viewers in with its unique premise and the undeniable charm of its leading cast, proving that even the most unconventional families could find love and laughter together, while also setting a benchmark for family-centric comedies of its era.

26. A Small Town in Germany

    Released in 1968 by John le Carré, Victor Gollancz

    In 1968, John le Carré, already a master of the espionage genre following the immense success of "The Spy Who Came In from the Cold," launched "A Small Town in Germany," cementing his reputation as a chronicler of Cold War cynicism. The novel immediately captured the zeitgeist, appealing to a public increasingly disillusioned with simplistic narratives of good versus evil. Its intricate plot, set against the backdrop of Cold War Bonn, West Germany, offered a gritty, morally ambiguous counterpoint to the more glamorous spy thrillers of the era. It wasn't just a book; it was a cultural touchstone, a reflection of a world grappling with murky geopolitical alliances and the personal costs of statecraft.

27. Airport

    Released in 1968 by Arthur Hailey, Doubleday

    Arthur Hailey's 'Airport' burst onto the literary scene in 1968, immediately capturing the imagination of readers worldwide. At a time when air travel was becoming increasingly commonplace yet still held an aura of mystique and technical wonder, Hailey peeled back the curtain to reveal the intricate, often chaotic, world behind the glamour. The novel wasn't just a bestseller; it was a cultural phenomenon, redefining the disaster thriller genre and establishing Hailey as a master of the meticulously researched procedural novel. Its release tapped into public fascination with complex systems and high-stakes drama, propelling it to the top of bestseller lists and cementing its place as a quintessential read of the late 1960s.

28. Couples

    Released in 1968 by John Updike, Alfred A. Knopf

    John Updike's 'Couples' exploded onto the American literary scene in 1968, becoming an immediate and profound cultural phenomenon. Published amidst the tumultuous social shifts of the late 1960s, its frank exploration of infidelity and suburban ennui captivated—and often scandalized—readers. It was more than just a popular novel; it was a societal mirror, reflecting the burgeoning sexual revolution and the anxieties of the American middle class. Its controversial themes and explicit passages fueled heated discussions, cementing its status as one of the definitive novels of its era and a major bestseller that defined the changing landscape of American morality.

29. Crissy

    Released in 1968 by Ideal Toy Company

    Launched in 1968 by the Ideal Toy Company, Crissy immediately captivated children with her groundbreaking feature: hair that appeared to grow and shorten. In an era where doll play often involved static hair, Crissy's innovative mechanism brought an unprecedented level of interactive realism, allowing children to style her hair in countless ways. She wasn't just another fashion doll; Crissy represented a new frontier in doll design, quickly becoming a must-have toy for girls across North America and beyond. Her immense popularity cemented her status as a cultural phenomenon and a commercial triumph for Ideal, setting a new standard for interactive play.

30. Don't Break the Ice

    Released in 1968 by Schaper Manufacturing Company

    Don't Break the Ice captivated families upon its 1968 launch by Schaper, quickly becoming a staple in toy chests. This deceptively simple game offered immediate, nail-biting fun, making it an instant commercial success and a cultural touchstone for a generation of children. Its straightforward premise and engaging physical interaction created a unique appeal that cut through the noise of more complex board games, establishing itself as a beloved classic. The thrill of potentially sending the penguin plunging made it a perennial favorite during game nights and playdates, ensuring its enduring popularity from the moment it hit store shelves.

31. Leisure suit

    Released in 1968 by Various Manufacturers and Tailors

    The Leisure suit burst onto the American fashion scene in the late 1960s, though its cultural dominance truly defined the 1970s. It represented a revolutionary departure from the staid formality of traditional menswear, quickly becoming a symbol of a more relaxed and self-expressive era. Its immediate popularity stemmed from a societal shift towards casualization and a desire for comfort without sacrificing a sense of coordinated style. Far from being an niche trend, the Leisure suit permeated all levels of society, transforming men's wardrobes from conservative business attire to a more vibrant and versatile aesthetic, embodying the free-spirited energy of the decade.

32. N&B Block

    Released in 1968 by Unknown

    The year 1968 saw the introduction of 'N&B Block,' a seemingly simple yet profoundly impactful construction toy. While not a global phenomenon on the scale of some of its contemporaries, N&B Block quickly found its niche, appealing to parents and educators seeking toys that offered more than just momentary amusement. Launched during a period of increasing focus on developmental play, N&B Block stood out for its robust design and inherent educational value. Its quiet success underscored a growing consumer preference for toys that stimulated young minds and encouraged fundamental cognitive and motor skills, making it a beloved staple in many households, even if its origins remained somewhat shrouded in mystery.

33. Preserve and Protect

    Released in 1968 by Allen Drury, Doubleday

    A political thriller set against the backdrop of a tumultuous American election, 'Preserve and Protect' by Allen Drury exploded onto the literary scene in 1968. Coming at a time of profound national unrest, with the Vietnam War raging and domestic divisions deepening, the novel offered readers a dramatic and often cynical glimpse into the corridors of power. As the fourth installment in Drury's acclaimed 'Advise and Consent' series, it capitalized on an established readership eager for more of his intricate political machinations. Its immediate popularity underscored a public fascination with Washington D.C.'s hidden battles, turning the book into a significant cultural touchstone for understanding the era's anxieties and political climate, cementing its status as a major bestseller in a year defined by dramatic events.

34. The Armies of the Night

    Released in 1968 by Norman Mailer, New American Library

    Published in 1968, 'The Armies of the Night' stands as a pivotal work of American literature, directly engaging with the profound social and political turmoil of the Vietnam War era. Its historical significance lies in its innovative approach to journalism, which transcended traditional reportage to offer a deeply personal yet incisive look at one of the decade's most defining protest events. Mailer's masterpiece not only documented the massive anti-war march on the Pentagon but also explored the moral and cultural schisms plaguing the nation, offering future generations a vivid and complex understanding of 1968's charged atmosphere and the burgeoning counterculture.

35. The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test

    Released in 1968 by Tom Wolfe, Farrar, Straus and Giroux

    Released in 1968, 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test' stands as a seminal work for its groundbreaking immersion into the nascent psychedelic counter-culture movement of the 1960s. Tom Wolfe’s innovative New Journalism style perfectly captured the chaotic, vibrant, and often elusive spirit of an era defined by social upheaval and experimentation. The book's publication was perfectly timed to articulate the burgeoning youth rebellion, providing both an insider's view and a critical examination of the shift from beatnik rebellion to the acid-fueled utopian aspirations of figures like Ken Kesey. Its impact was immediate, offering a defining narrative for a generation grappling with altered consciousness and societal norms.

36. The Salzburg Connection

    Released in 1968 by Helen MacInnes, Harcourt, Brace & World

    In 1968, as geopolitical tensions simmered globally, Helen MacInnes's 'The Salzburg Connection' burst onto the literary scene, capturing the imagination of readers worldwide. This spy thriller immediately established itself as a must-read, becoming a Publishers Weekly #3 Bestseller and a significant cultural phenomenon. Its intricate plot, set against the breathtaking yet ominous backdrop of the Austrian Alps, offered a timely escape into a world of Cold War intrigue, hidden pasts, and high-stakes espionage. The novel's ability to blend gripping suspense with a sophisticated narrative made it an instant classic and solidified MacInnes's reputation as a master of the genre, perfectly reflecting the anxieties and fascinations of its era.

37. The Tower of Babel

    Released in 1968 by Morris West, William Morrow and Company

    The Tower of Babel by Morris West burst onto the literary scene in 1968, immediately captivating readers with its timely and prescient exploration of the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Published just a year after the pivotal Six-Day War, the novel provided a fictional yet remarkably insightful lens into the complex geopolitical landscape that led to the conflict. It wasn't merely a book; it was a cultural phenomenon, tapping into the collective global anxiety about the volatile region. West, already a master of the political thriller, delivered a narrative that felt ripped from the headlines, making it an essential read for anyone trying to understand the intricate web of espionage, diplomacy, and religious fervor defining the era. Its rapid ascent to bestseller status underscored its powerful resonance with a world grappling with seemingly insurmountable divides.