Aim: How can we describe post WW2 U.S (1950’s)?

1950’s Economy Lone economic superpower in the world Corporations – CEO’s, corporate structure multinational conglomerates – General Mills – RJR Nabisco – Disney Franchises – McDonalds Ray Kroc How franchises make $$$$$ Agribusiness – Giant farms controlled by the few replaces the independent farmer, they are pushed to the cities Rise of “white” and “pink” collars – 60% of Americans were now in huge “middle class”- white collar jobs – Pink- women in the service industry

Technology Atomic Energy Computers Television

Decade of “Conformity” “Happy Days” “Leave it to Beaver”/ “Ozzie and Harriet” lifestyles- mom/dad/2 ½ kids, dog, white picket fence/ apple pie Rise in religion – Billy Graham and televangelists – “In God We Trust” on $$$$ – One Nation, Under God, Indivisible in pledge Women back to “traditional” roles

“Baby Boomers” Post WWII boom in births Shows economic stability of the times

Suburbia William Levitt – Levittown, Long Island – White collar moves out of the cities and become commuters “sub-urban” living Pre-fabricated houses built in specific patterns Spurred on by GI Bill – Government sponsored $$$/loans to WWII vets for either education or homes

I Like Ike Truman defeats Republican Dewey Eisenhower chooses Republicans, not vice-versa!!!! – Ike barely political, just uber-popular – Both parties wanted him for their ticket Ike resume – West Point Grad – WWII hero – NATO commander “Checkers” speech – Conservative Republicans wanted a hardline running-mate– Nixon, but he was accused in accepting gifts during his Senate campaign – “take a shit or get off the pot!” – Nixon admits to accepting gift but wont return it!!!!!! A dog named Checkers! Speech makes him look sympathetic/human 1952 election – Ike easily defeats Stevenson