LIFE IN POSTWAR AMERICA THE CULTURE OF THE 50’S: LIFE IN POSTWAR AMERICA

I. Americans Rally Behind Ike Eisenhower’s “Dynamic Conservatism” and “Modern Republicanism” 1. Domestic issues conservative in nature 2. Worked to balance budget, cut bureaucracy, curb “creeping socialism”, reduce gov’t regulation of economy Ike’s traditional image appealed to Americans 1. Back to family values (Baby Boom begins) 2. Don’t “rock the boat”

II. Conformity in the 1950’s People desired happiness after the war Mass consumer spending after WWII (chart p. 473) The growing middle class head to the “suburbs” 1. “Leavittown” successful-houses similar 2. Commuting made easy with Highway Act of ’56 -Developed for troop mobilization -Established birth of modern highway system

THE 50’s “BURB”

II. Conformity in the 1950’s (cont.) Conformity and happiness promoted in TV/movies: Reinforced 50’s stereotype 1. TV hits mainstream US by ’50’s 2. Commercials: “cheesy” 3. Popular shows like “I Love Lucy”

II. Conformity in the 1950’s (cont.) Music of the era 1. “Fluffy” 2. Emergence of Rock and Roll -Elvis Presley -Little Richard -Chuck Berry -Jerry Lee Lewis