History's Best Selling Products of 1966

Make way for the hits of 1966! This remarkable era stood as a testament to the swinging sixties phenomenon and the march of first-rate items. Crowd-pleasers such as Sounds of Silence shared the spotlight with mega-bestsellers In Cold Blood and Radio-Controlled Car. Brought to you by top-notch makers from industry leaders like Simon & Garfunkel and Truman Capote, these trailblazing products spurred a pop-culture revolution across the nation and earned a permanent place in cultural lore. Check out the complete rank-ordered ledger below to relive the finest releases of the year.

1. Sounds of Silence

   Released in 1966 by Simon & Garfunkel, Columbia Records

   Released on January 17, 1966, Simon & Garfunkel's second studio album, "Sounds of Silence," marked a pivotal moment in music history, transforming the folk duo into international superstars. The album's release was directly tied to the unexpected success of its title track. Originally recorded acoustically for their debut album, "Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.," the song was overdubbed with electric instruments by producer Tom Wilson without the duo's knowledge. This electrified version became a surprise No. 1 hit in late 1965, prompting Columbia Records to rush Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel back into the studio. This date, therefore, represents not just an album release, but the birth of the Simon & Garfunkel sound that would define an era of folk-rock.

2. In Cold Blood

   Released in 1966 by Truman Capote, Random House

   Step into the chilling landscape of a small Kansas town, where a brutal, senseless murder shattered the illusion of American innocence and forever changed the landscape of journalism. Truman Capote's 'In Cold Blood,' first published in 1966, isn't merely a book; it's a monumental achievement in literary nonfiction, a searing psychological examination, and a harrowing true story that captivated a nation and continues to haunt readers decades later. Capote meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to, during, and after the Clutter family's slaughter, transforming a horrific crime into a groundbreaking work of art that challenged the boundaries of reportage and storytelling.

3. Radio-Controlled Car

   Released in 1966 by Elettronica Giocattoli

   On February 1, 1966, at the Milan Toy Fair, the world of play was forever changed. Italian firm Elettronica Giocattoli (EG) unveiled its 1:12 scale Ferrari 250LM, the first commercially successful radio-controlled car. Before this moment, 'remote control' almost universally meant a toy physically tethered to a controller by a wire, limiting movement and imagination. The EG Ferrari severed that cord. Utilizing emerging radio technology, it offered unprecedented freedom, allowing a user to 'drive' the car with a level of precision previously reserved for hobbyist or military applications. This debut didn't just launch a new product; it created an entirely new category of interactive toy and laid the technological groundwork for a global hobby that would captivate millions.

4. Valley of the Dolls

   Released in 1966 by Jacqueline Susann, Bernard Geis Associates

   Jacqueline Susann's 'Valley of the Dolls' exploded onto the literary scene in 1966, instantly becoming a cultural touchstone and one of the most talked-about books of its era. This sensational novel didn't just sell; it devoured the bestseller lists, capturing the public imagination with its scandalous peek behind the curtain of Hollywood glamour and Broadway ambition. Its raw depiction of female friendship, cutthroat careers, and the insidious allure of addiction struck a chord, making it an undeniable phenomenon that perfectly mirrored the changing social landscape of the tumultuous 1960s, challenging conventions and sparking widespread discussion.

5. Vans

   Released in 1966 by Vans, Paul Van Doren, James Van Doren

   On March 16, 1966, a humble shoe store opened its doors in Anaheim, California, selling a simple canvas deck shoe directly to customers. This seemingly unassuming venture, started by brothers Paul and James Van Doren, alongside partners Gordon Lee and Serge Delia, would soon birth a global phenomenon known as Vans. Their unique business model, which involved manufacturing shoes on-site and selling them fresh from the factory, immediately struck a chord with local consumers. The initial promise of superior grip and durability quickly made them a favorite among the burgeoning Southern California skateboarding scene, laying the groundwork for Vans' meteoric rise as an authentic symbol of youth culture and individuality.

6. Aftermath

   Released in 1966 by The Rolling Stones, Decca Records

   On April 15, 1966, The Rolling Stones released their fourth British studio album, "Aftermath," marking a watershed moment in their career. It was a pivotal release not just for the band, but for rock music itself, as it was the first Stones album to consist entirely of original songs written by the burgeoning partnership of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. This release saw the band shed their image as primarily interpreters of American R&B and blues, stepping forward as formidable songwriters and musical innovators who could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with contemporaries like The Beatles and Bob Dylan.

7. Nissan Sunny

   Released in 1966 by Nissan

   On April 23, 1966, Nissan launched a car that would define a new era of personal mobility for Japan and the world: the Datsun Sunny (B10). This date marks a pivotal moment in Japan's post-war economic miracle, as rising incomes fueled a demand for affordable family vehicles, a phenomenon known as the 'my car' boom. The Sunny was Nissan's direct entry into this burgeoning mass market, a thoughtfully designed vehicle aimed at the average family. Its debut ignited one of the greatest rivalries in automotive history, as it went head-to-head with the Toyota Corolla, which launched just a few months later. This day heralded the dawn of the Japanese compact car's global dominance.

8. Pet Sounds

   Released in 1966 by The Beach Boys, Capitol Records

   On May 16, 1966, the world of popular music was irrevocably changed with the release of "Pet Sounds" by The Beach Boys. Dropping in the middle of a decade defined by musical innovation, the album was a stark departure from the band's signature surf-rock image. It was Brian Wilson's deeply personal and ambitious symphonic statement, a 'teenage symphony to God' that challenged the very definition of what a pop album could be. Its release marked a pivotal moment, showcasing a new level of artistry, production complexity, and emotional depth in rock music, directly influencing contemporaries like The Beatles and setting a new standard for studio recording.

9. Tai-Pan

   Released in 1966 by James Clavell, Atheneum

   In 1966, a sprawling historical epic burst onto the literary scene, capturing the imagination of readers worldwide: James Clavell's 'Tai-Pan'. This monumental novel plunged audiences into the tumultuous founding of Hong Kong in 1841, instantly becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its robust narrative, filled with ambition, intrigue, and cross-cultural conflict, resonated deeply with a public eager for grand adventures and exotic locales. 'Tai-Pan' wasn't just a book; it was an immersive journey into a pivotal moment in history, establishing Clavell as a master storyteller and laying the groundwork for his legendary 'Asian Saga', which would continue to define an entire genre for decades.

10. The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming

    Released in 1966 by Norman Jewison, United Artists

    On May 25, 1966, the world was introduced to a new kind of Cold War narrative with the premiere of 'The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming'. This satirical comedy, directed by Norman Jewison, burst onto screens, offering a much-needed dose of levity and humanism during a period of heightened international tension. Its initial release in New York City marked the beginning of a highly successful theatrical run, captivating audiences with its witty screenplay and stellar ensemble cast. The film quickly became a critical and commercial darling, demonstrating the power of humor to bridge divides and highlight the absurdities of conflict. This premiere date is special as it launched a cinematic milestone that skillfully blended sharp social commentary with riotous slapstick.

11. Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

    Released in 1966 by Mike Nichols, Warner Bros.

    June 21, 1966, marked the highly anticipated United States theatrical premiere of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?', a groundbreaking cinematic event that shook the foundations of American filmmaking. This date not only introduced audiences to Mike Nichols' raw and electrifying directorial debut but also unleashed an unforgettable pairing of Hollywood titans Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, whose on-screen chemistry ignited the screen. The film's audacious dialogue and unflinching look at marital discord made it an immediate sensation, pushing the boundaries of the then-stricter Production Code and setting the stage for significant changes in film ratings. Its premiere was a cultural milestone, quickly translating into box office success and cementing its place as a modern classic.

12. Freak Out!

    Released in 1966 by The Mothers of Invention, Frank Zappa, Verve Records

    Released on June 27, 1966, The Mothers of Invention's debut, "Freak Out!", was a landmark event in the history of rock music. At a time when the single was king and albums were mostly collections of songs, Frank Zappa convinced producer Tom Wilson and Verve Records to release his band's first record as a double album—a virtually unprecedented move for an unknown group. This bold decision signaled from the outset that "Freak Out!" was not a conventional record. It arrived in the midst of the burgeoning counter-culture movement, providing a satirical, complex, and sonically challenging soundtrack that stood in stark contrast to the pop music dominating the airwaves.

13. Revolver

    Released in 1966 by The Beatles, Parlophone, Capitol Records

    On August 5, 1966, The Beatles released their seventh studio album, "Revolver," in the United Kingdom, forever altering the landscape of popular music. This date marks a pivotal moment when the world's biggest band definitively transitioned from being a touring pop act into groundbreaking studio artists. Having recently retired from live performances, the band was free to explore the furthest reaches of their imagination without the constraint of having to reproduce the songs on stage. "Revolver" was not just a collection of new songs; it was a sonic manifesto, a bold declaration that the recording studio itself could be an instrument. The album's release signaled a new era of artistic freedom and technical innovation in rock music, setting a standard that countless musicians would strive to meet for decades to come.

14. Alfie

    Released in 1966 by Lewis Gilbert, Paramount Pictures

    The cinematic world was captivated on August 25, 1966, with the premiere of 'Alfie' in the United Kingdom. This date marked the debut of a film that would swiftly become a cultural touchstone of the Swinging Sixties, introducing audiences to one of cinema's most memorable anti-heroes. Starring the then-rising star Michael Caine, 'Alfie' wasn't just a movie; it was a mirror reflecting the evolving social mores of its time. Its release ignited conversations about relationships, morality, and personal freedom, earning significant box office success and cementing its place as a quintessential British film that dared to explore the complexities of a charming, yet morally ambiguous, character.

15. Star Trek: The Original Series

    Released in 1966 by Gene Roddenberry, NBC

    On September 6, 1966, the final frontier opened not in the United States, but in Canada. Two days before its scheduled American debut on NBC, Gene Roddenberry's visionary science fiction series, "Star Trek," made its world premiere on Canada's CTV network. The episode aired was "The Man Trap," introducing audiences to Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, and the groundbreaking concept of the Starship Enterprise. This Canadian broadcast marked the true beginning of a cultural phenomenon, offering the first glimpse into a hopeful, diverse future among the stars. While American audiences waited, Canada was the first nation to 'boldly go where no one has gone before,' launching a franchise that would captivate the world for generations.

16. Capable of Honor

    Released in 1966 by Allen Drury, Doubleday

    Capable of Honor launched into the American literary scene in 1966, immediately captivating readers with its deep dive into the labyrinthine world of Washington D.C. politics. As the third installment in Allen Drury's acclaimed 'Advise and Consent' series, it arrived with pre-existing anticipation, further cementing his reputation as a master of the political thriller. In a decade marked by escalating global tensions and domestic unrest, Drury's fictionalized yet alarmingly realistic portrayal of power struggles, media manipulation, and moral dilemmas within the highest echelons of government struck a profound chord. It wasn't merely a popular book; it was a cultural lens through which many Americans processed the bewildering complexities of their own political landscape, making it a significant phenomenon of its time.

17. The Bible: In the Beginning...

    Released in 1966 by John Huston, 20th Century Fox

    The premiere of "The Bible: In the Beginning..." on September 28, 1966, marked a monumental cinematic event, launching one of the grandest biblical epics ever conceived. This ambitious film, directed by the legendary John Huston, sought to bring the early chapters of Genesis to the big screen with unprecedented scope and a star-studded international cast. Its debut in New York City introduced audiences to a visually stunning and dramatically sweeping interpretation of sacred texts, promising an immersive journey through humanity's earliest stories. The film was positioned as a major roadshow attraction, aiming to captivate viewers with its scale and spiritual resonance, a significant undertaking for 20th Century Fox that garnered considerable attention from its very first screening.

18. Mercury Cougar

    Released in 1966 by Mercury

    On September 30, 1966, as part of the grand unveiling of 1967 models, the Lincoln-Mercury division of Ford introduced a brand-new vehicle: the Cougar. This date marked Mercury's official entry into the wildly popular 'pony car' market, a segment created just two years earlier by its corporate sibling, the Ford Mustang. The launch was strategically timed to capture the attention of new car buyers during the traditional fall season. Unlike the Mustang, which appealed to the masses, the Cougar was presented as a more sophisticated, comfortable, and European-inspired grand tourer, aimed at a slightly older and more affluent customer who desired both performance and luxury.

19. Hawaii

    Released in 1966 by George Roy Hill, United Artists

    October 10, 1966, marked the grand premiere of 'Hawaii,' an epic cinematic adaptation of James A. Michener's sprawling novel. This release date was a significant moment, bringing to the screen a historical drama of immense scale and ambition, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Hawaiian Islands. Heralded as a major event, the film aimed to captivate audiences with its tale of cultural clash and conversion. Its debut established it as a significant release of the year, embarking on a theatrical run that would solidify its position as one of the highest-grossing films of 1966, capturing the imagination of a nation eager for exotic stories and grand spectacle.

20. Georgy Girl

    Released in 1966 by Silvio Narizzano, Columbia Pictures

    October 16, 1966, marked the world theatrical premiere of 'Georgy Girl' in London, a film that instantly captured the spirit of the 'swinging sixties' while delivering a poignant message about identity and belonging. This date saw the launch of a charming and unconventional British comedy-drama that would go on to earn critical acclaim and significant commercial success. Its memorable title song, performed by The Seekers, became a global hit, further cementing the film's place in popular culture. The movie's debut was a notable event, introducing audiences to a refreshingly honest portrayal of a young woman navigating complex relationships and societal expectations, making this premiere date a significant moment in cinematic history.

21. Toyota Corolla

    Released in 1966 by Toyota

    On October 20, 1966, Toyota officially announced a vehicle that would redefine the global automotive landscape: the Corolla. Launched into a rapidly growing post-war Japanese economy, the Corolla arrived as the nation's

22. The Professionals

    Released in 1966 by Richard Brooks, Columbia Pictures

    November 2, 1966, marked the world theatrical premiere of 'The Professionals' in New York City, launching what would become one of the most celebrated and impactful Westerns of its era. This action-packed adventure quickly captured the imagination of audiences and critics alike, thanks to its stellar cast, gritty realism, and compelling narrative. The film was a significant box office success for Columbia Pictures, solidifying its place as a genre classic and demonstrating the enduring appeal of the 'men on a mission' trope set against the rugged backdrop of the American Southwest. Its initial release set the stage for its legendary status.

23. Fresh Cream

    Released in 1966 by Cream, Reaction Records

    On December 9, 1966, the landscape of rock music was irrevocably altered with the UK release of "Fresh Cream," the debut album from the genre's first true supergroup, Cream. Comprising Eric Clapton on guitar, Jack Bruce on bass and lead vocals, and Ginger Baker on drums, the trio emerged from the fertile British blues scene. This release wasn't just another album; it was a statement of intent. It marked the moment a new kind of power trio was unleashed upon the world, one that fused the raw energy of American blues with the improvisational freedom of jazz and the heavy amplification of rock, setting a new standard for musical virtuosity and laying the groundwork for psychedelic and hard rock.

24. A Man for All Seasons

    Released in 1966 by Fred Zinnemann, Columbia Pictures

    The cinematic world was captivated on December 12, 1966, when "A Man for All Seasons" premiered in London. This historical drama, lauded for its intellectual depth and powerful performances, quickly established itself as a critical and commercial triumph. Marking its global debut on this significant date, the film's launch paved the way for an extraordinary journey, culminating in multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It remains a testament to the enduring power of conscience and conviction, a story that resonated deeply with audiences from its very first showing.

25. The Sand Pebbles

    Released in 1966 by Robert Wise, 20th Century Fox

    On December 20, 1966, the grand cinematic epic 'The Sand Pebbles' premiered, setting sail into the hearts of critics and audiences alike. This historical drama, starring the legendary Steve McQueen, marked a significant moment in Hollywood, offering a sprawling narrative set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1920s China. Its launch wasn't just another film release; it was the unveiling of a monumental achievement in filmmaking, garnering multiple Academy Award nominations and solidifying its place as a classic. The date became synonymous with a film that blended intense personal drama with sweeping geopolitical conflict, creating an unforgettable viewing experience that resonated deeply with the era's sensibilities.

26. Grand Prix

    Released in 1966 by John Frankenheimer, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    On December 21, 1966, 'Grand Prix' roared onto North American screens, launching an immersive cinematic experience that redefined the racing genre. This groundbreaking film, shot in Super Panavision 70 and presented in Cinerama, quickly became a box office sensation, captivating audiences with its visceral portrayal of Formula One racing. Its premiere was a milestone, not just for its technical ambition but for its unprecedented access to the world of professional motorsport, which contributed to its status as the highest-grossing film of the year and a three-time Academy Award winner. This date marks the beginning of its journey into cinematic history, a bold venture that promised speed, spectacle, and human drama.

27. Captain Action

    Released in 1966 by Ideal Toy Company

    In 1966, the toy aisles welcomed a groundbreaking new hero: Captain Action. Launched by Ideal Toy Company, he emerged during the golden age of action figures, a direct response to the massive success of G.I. Joe. What made Captain Action a true cultural phenomenon wasn't just his heroic stature, but his unprecedented ability to transform. Unlike other action figures who were singular characters, Captain Action was a master of disguise, allowing children to outfit him as an array of beloved superheroes and villains using licensed costume sets. This innovative 'one figure, many heroes' concept captured imaginations and offered an exciting new dimension to play, quickly establishing him as a unique and memorable entry in toy history.

28. Le Smoking

    Released in 1966 by Yves Saint Laurent, Yves Saint Laurent

    Le Smoking, first unveiled by Yves Saint Laurent in 1966, was not merely a garment; it was a sartorial revolution that instantly captured the zeitgeist of a changing world. This audacious reinterpretation of the classic men's tuxedo for women immediately signaled a profound shift in fashion, challenging entrenched gender norms and offering women an unprecedented silhouette of power and sophisticated elegance. Its launch was a bold statement, quickly embraced by a growing movement of women asserting their independence and desire for fashion that reflected their evolving roles in society. Le Smoking's immediate success lay in its ability to combine masculine strength with feminine allure, making it an instant icon and a commercial triumph for the house of YSL.

29. Nehru jacket

    Released in 1966 by Traditional Indian Tailors, Jawaharlal Nehru

    Emerging from the sartorial elegance of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, the Nehru jacket transitioned from traditional Indian attire to an unexpected global fashion phenomenon in the mid-1960s. Following Nehru's death in 1964, Western fashion discovered this unique garment, quickly embracing it as a chic alternative to conventional Western suits and casual wear. It became an instant fad, particularly among the counter-culture movement and trendsetters, signifying a departure from established norms and an embrace of global aesthetics. Its clean lines and distinctive collar resonated with a generation seeking both sophistication and a subtle rebellion, ensuring its swift commercial and cultural ascendancy across continents.

30. Paper clothing

    Released in 1966 by Scott Paper Company

    The launch of paper clothing in 1966, spearheaded by the Scott Paper Company, marked a pivotal and utterly unexpected moment in fashion history. What began as a promotional gimmick for Scott's paper products quickly exploded into a nationwide craze, captivating a generation eager for novelty and breaking free from conventional norms. Its immediate success lay in its audacious disposability, affordability, and the sheer fun factor it brought to wardrobes. This ephemeral style perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the swinging sixties, offering an accessible, vibrant, and utterly modern approach to personal expression that resonated with millions.

31. The Fixer

    Released in 1966 by Bernard Malamud, Farrar, Straus and Giroux

    Bernard Malamud's 'The Fixer,' published in 1966, burst onto the American literary scene as a powerful and timely novel that resonated deeply with readers and critics alike. Its immediate success was undeniable, quickly landing on bestseller lists and becoming a significant cultural phenomenon during a tumultuous decade. The book's stark exploration of injustice, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of brutal persecution struck a universal chord, making it one of the most talked-about and acclaimed works of fiction upon its release. Its profound narrative ensured its place not just as a popular read, but as a crucial contribution to the literary discourse of the mid-20th century, cementing Malamud’s reputation as a master storyteller.

32. The Secret of Santa Vittoria

    Released in 1966 by Robert Crichton, Simon & Schuster

    In 1966, Robert Crichton's 'The Secret of Santa Vittoria' burst onto the literary scene, capturing the imaginations of readers across America and beyond. This engaging novel quickly became a national sensation, lauded for its unique blend of historical drama, heartfelt humor, and unwavering human spirit. It wasn't just a book; it was a phenomenon that offered a much-needed narrative of resilience and community during a time of global upheaval. Its immediate popularity stemmed from its accessible storytelling and an inspiring premise that resonated deeply with a public hungry for tales of ordinary people achieving extraordinary feats under duress.

33. Batman action figures

    Released in 1966 by Ideal Toy Company and subsequent licensees, Various designers and teams

    The launch of Batman action figures in 1966 marked a pivotal moment in toy history, coinciding with the massive popularity of the 'Batman' live-action television series starring Adam West. While earlier static figures existed, the articulated 12-inch figures by Ideal Toy Company were among the first to truly capture the essence of a poseable hero, allowing children to recreate the dynamic adventures they saw on screen. This initial release tapped into a surging cultural phenomenon, providing tangible representations of Gotham's Caped Crusader directly into the hands of an eager fanbase. The immediate success solidified Batman's place not just as a comic book icon, but as a perennial toy aisle staple, setting the stage for decades of innovation and countless iterations.