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Social Aspects of the 1950’s

Explore the social dynamics of the 1950s, including the promises of prosperity and peace under President Eisenhower, the military buildup and anticommunism, the rise of bomb shelters and the nuclear family, the booming economy, the baby boom generation, prefabricated housing, suburban living, changing women's roles, the rise of the car culture, the impact of television, and the explosion of rock and roll.

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Social Aspects of the 1950’s

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  1. Social Aspects of the 1950’s

  2. The Eisenhower Era Begins: WW2 hero Dwight Eisenhower was elected in 1952, promising to bring “normalcy”, prosperity and peace to America.

  3. Military Buildup and Anticommunism: Eisenhower’s goals were marred by the tension created by our increase in testing of Atomic weaponry.

  4. Bomb Shelters and the Nuclear Family: Many families bought bomb shelters, told they would provide adequate protection in the case of nuclear attack.The shelters reinforced the nuclear family: isolated,abundant & protected by modern technology.

  5. The Booming Economy: Time of unparalleled consumer spending.Wages increased, and due to wartime frugality many had large savings.Still 1 in 4 lived in poverty

  6. The “Baby Boom”: The birthrate skyrocketed during the 50’s.-”baby-boomers”Americans were encouraged to marry young and avoid premarital sex.Only 9% thought single people could be happy.

  7. Prefabricated Housing: Production of cheaply made, highly modern, homes exploded.

  8. Suburban Living: The new homes were primarily built in highly segregated suburbs.Many believed the suburbs celebrated the American family, others believed they promoted stifling conformity.

  9. July 31st Women’s Roles: Women lost their jobs to returning vets.Women were encouraged to cater to their husband’s wishes and focus on their role as mothers.

  10. America Takes to the Road: The car becomes a status symbol- a required component of the American Dream.

  11. The Rise of Television: By the end of the decade, 88% had a TV & the average family watched 6hrs a day.TV reinforced stereotypes & excluded minorities.

  12. The Rock and Roll Explosion: Amidst the strict conservative morals, Elvis Presley created a new teenage “religion”-rock and roll.

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