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The Great Depression
worldwide economic depression -
Period: to
The Great Depression
Worldwide economic depression that began in the United States in the late 1920's -
Birth
Elvis Aaron Presley is born to Gladys and Vernon Presley -
Birth
Elvis Aaron Presley is born to Gladys and Vernon Presley in a small house in Tupelo, MS -
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World War II
The Second World War, between Axis and Allied powers over ideological disagreements. -
First Performance
10 year old Elvis preforms Red Foley's "Old Step" at the Mississippi-Alabama Fair and Dairy show, coming in 5th place. -
Elvis' First Guitar
For his 11th birthday, Presley was given a guitar by his parents. His uncle Vestor gave him basic lessons. -
Move to Memphis
The Presley's move to Memphis, TN. Some speculate Vernon was trying to avoid jail time for selling bootleg alcohol. -
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The Korean War
Conflicts at the Korean border draws American Troops. -
Begins Recording
Records "My Happiness" and "That's When Your Heartaches Begin" at Sun Records in Memphis. -
Buddy Holly
Holly sees Elvis perform, and encourages him to add more rock n' roll to his sound, giving him a more rockabilly vibe. -
The Colonel
Presley signs a contract with manager "The Colonel" Tom Parker, which leads to RCA Victor Records to acquire Sun's records for $40,000. -
Elvis Presley (self titled)
Elvis's first album, the self-titled "Elvis Presley" is released, and subsequently spend ten weeks at #1 on Billboard's Top Pop Albums -
The Ed Sullivan Show
Elvis appears on The Ed Sullivan Show, and performs "Don't Be Cruel" as well as "Love Me Tender". The cameras only shot from the waist up, but the screams from the audience could be heard. -
Jailhouse Rock
Elvis' third movie is released. The movie would later be added to the United States National Film Registry. -
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"Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow"
Elvis is drafted into the Untied States Army for service at the height of his career. His military-issued haircut was televised. He also refused Special Service as an entertainer, and chose to serve as a regular soldier. -
Death of The King
Elvis Presley is declared dead at 3:30 pm at Baptist Memorial Hospital.
