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Howdy Doody
"Howdy Doody," a children's series, premieres live on NBC as a one-hour Saturday program. -
The Ed Sullivan Show
"The Ed Sullivan Show" (originally "Toast of the Town") makes its debut. -
Today
NBC's "Today" show, first and longest-running early-morning network show, bows with host Dave Garroway and chimpanzee sidekick J. Fred Muggs. -
Color Broadcasting
Color broadcasting officially arrives in the U.S., when FCC approves modified version of an RCA system. -
The Tonight Show
NBC launches "The Tonight Show," featuring comedian Steve Allen. -
Gunsmoke
The classic Western series "Gunsmoke" begins its 20-year run on CBS. -
$64,000 Question
"The $64,000 Question," premieres in June on CBS, igniting a U.S. game show craze. -
Mister Magoo
The cartoon ad character Mister Magoo becomes the nearsighted spokesman for General Electric bulbs. -
I have a dream
Dr. Martin Luther King delivers his "I have a dream" speech as millions watch on TV. -
Color
Color TV booms as NBC leads the way and begins to use the phrase "The Full Color Network".