By August 16, 2026 / 9:57 AM EDT / CBS News
The summer of 1936 was characterized by extreme heat, leading to significant consequences. This deadly heat wave caused the loss of at least 5,000 lives due to heat-related reasons. Geoff Williams, author of “The Summer of Death,” explained that New York City, Baltimore, Columbus, Lexington, and Minneapolis were severely affected. Many cities faced temperatures over 100°F for weeks, breaking records that persist to this day.
With limited access to air conditioning, people sought relief by sleeping in movie theaters or even outdoors. Williams remarked, “All day, you’re suffering, and then you can’t sleep. And this would go on day after day.” This intense heat influenced daily living and even modified societal norms regarding clothing in America.
Changing Fashion Norms
During this period, shorts became more prevalent, even among adults, although in some areas they were against the law. In Yonkers, New York, wearing shorts was prohibited. Mike Spano, the current mayor of the city, discussed how wearing shorts or halter tops could lead to fines or imprisonment. In 1935, Alderman William Slater pushed for this ban in Yonkers, and ten officers were assigned to enforce it.
In a demonstration against this law, two New York Daily News reporters donned shorts in Yonkers in June 1936 and were detained by the police. They faced a $10 fine, but eventually succeeded in having their convictions overturned and the law repealed.
Fashion Through History
Erin Black, a costume design historian at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, discussed the evolution of shorts. Initially scandalous, the act of showing legs has evolved over time. Historical examples include the Elizabethan Era’s “pumpkin hose” and World War I soldiers in Bermuda cutting trousers at the knee. This act in Bermuda led to the creation of Bermuda shorts.
Fashion also evolved for women, who began wearing shorter clothing with the influence of World War II pinup girls. By the 1950s, shorts became mainstream, and James Brown’s “Hot Pants” and Catherine Bach’s portrayal of Daisy Duke popularized short shorts further.
Today’s Acceptance
Shorts have since become a standard part of attire in many settings, including professional environments. Mayor Mike Spano himself wears them in Yonkers, where they were once illegal. Writer Geoff Williams in Ohio also appreciates shorts, reflecting on the challenges he would have faced in 1936.
While today’s heat waves continue to challenge us, the widespread acceptance of shorts is something many can appreciate.
For more on “The Summer of Death” and Geoff Williams’ account of the 1936 heat wave, explore his book available in various formats.
Contributors to this story include Geoff Williams, Mayor Mike Spano, and Erin Black.
Story produced by Michelle Kessel. Editor: Carol Ross.