Strange American Fads: From Goldfish Swallowing to Pet Rocks
From the dance halls of the 1920s to the dorm rooms of the 1970s, American culture has been no stranger to bizarre and short-lived obsessions. Known as fads, these trends often burst into popularity overnight — only to fade just as quickly. Though often silly, these fads reflect the social moods, innovations, and humor of their time.
What Is a Fad?
A fad is a behavior, fashion, or object that gains sudden popularity for a brief period. Unlike lasting trends, fads are often exaggerated, novelty-based, and fueled by media attention or peer influence. They are typically associated with youth culture and mass consumerism.
Memorable American Fads Through the Decades
1930s: Goldfish Swallowing
This peculiar college stunt began at Harvard and quickly spread across U.S. campuses. Students competed to swallow the most live goldfish — a practice that alarmed animal rights groups and university officials.
1950s: Hula Hoops
Introduced by Wham-O in 1958, the plastic hula hoop became an instant sensation, selling over 25 million units in four months. Children and adults alike swiveled their hips across suburban America.
1960s: Phone Booth Stuffing
A fad that perfectly captures the absurdity of the era — students tried to fit as many people as possible into a single phone booth. Records topped over 20 individuals in one booth.
1970s: The Pet Rock
In 1975, advertising executive Gary Dahl sold millions of smooth stones in boxes as “pets.” With no feeding, walking, or cleanup required, the Pet Rock was both a joke and a phenomenon.
1980s: Rubik’s Cube Craze
Though more enduring than most fads, the Rubik’s Cube became a pop culture icon in the 1980s. Competitions, merchandise, and even music were built around the colorful puzzle.
1990s: Tamagotchi
This Japanese digital pet captivated schoolchildren who fed, cleaned, and raised their tiny screen-based creatures — often during class, to teachers’ dismay.
Common Features of a Fad
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Rapid Rise | Becomes popular very quickly through media or word of mouth |
| Short Lifespan | Interest fades within months or a few years |
| Social Imitation | Driven by peer pressure, especially among youth |
| Low Utility | Often fun but impractical or meaningless in function |
Why Fads Matter
While often dismissed as trivial, fads reveal a lot about their era — from consumer behavior and generational values to humor and escapism. They show how ideas spread, mutate, and vanish, often leaving behind surprising cultural footprints.
Conclusion
Whether it’s swallowing goldfish or raising digital pets, America’s history of fads is a testament to the power of novelty and shared experience. While they may be fleeting, fads leave lasting memories — and sometimes, a little laughter in hindsight.
