1. Tuesday April 25, 2017
Objective- Explain what life was like in the 1950’s and understand how the 1950’s gave way to turbulence and conflict in the 1960’s.
Journal log- When you think of the 1950’s, what are some images that come to mind?
Homework- Test & Review Q’s due 4/27

2. 50’s Fact Sheet
In groups, use the generalization and facts from the 50’s fact sheet to answer guided questions. 10 minutes

3. The 1950’s:Culture of Abundance and Conformity

4. Korean War North Korean invades South Korea
US receives UN sponsorship to send efforts to repel attack while the Soviet Union was absent from the Security Council.
No declaration was given but US did furnish troops.
Disobeying orders, General MacArthur sent UN forces within 40 miles of China and wanted Pres. Truman to use nuclear weapons on China. MacArthur fired
1953- Armistice signed
Effects- NSC-68 suggested an increase in defense spending

5. Changes in Farming & Family
Mechanization caused Output to increase and number of farm workers and family farms decreased
Labor Union achieved greater success; Technological advances decreased the number of jobs in heavy industry
Economy shifted to a service economy. Instead of making products more workers distributed goods, performed services, provided education, and kept records.
Intensified the need for female workers.

6. Suburbs 1 in every 4 people lived in suburbs by end of the 1950’s
William Levitt created factory assembly line process for homes
Lead to increase in home ownership
Result- white flight

7. Consumer Culture
Consumption was essential to individual’s identity and status and satisfaction was achieved through purchase of these new products
4/5 families owned television sets, all had refrigerators, owned at least 1 car.
Population surge spurred this abundance

8. Resurgence of the Cult of Domesticity & Religion
1950’s ideal family was included: male breadwinner, female housewife, ¾ kids
Betty Friedman “Feminine Mystique” criticized advertisers, educators, women’s magazine, and public officials for pressuring women to seek fulfillment in servicing others.
Religion increased, 63% of Americans belonged to a church
Religion was used as a need for social outlet and to help people conform

9. Television Spent more than 5 hours a day watching the TV
Programs projected the ideal family and feminine mystique
Affected politics- McCarthy reckless acts televised and contributed to his downfall; Candidates appeal directly to voters in their living rooms and require candidates to build campaign organizations

10. Beatnik- Revolt against Conformity
Small group of literary figures rejected the mainstream culture (patriotism, consumerism, family, and discipline)
Advocated spontaneity and personal freedom including drugs, sex, rejection against middle-class prejudices.

11. Conclusion Standard of living increased as a result of Cold War
Suburban houses sprang up everywhere
Highways divide cities and connected the country
Farms declined and industry moved west and south
Values changed as economy became more service orientated and opportunities to buy a wide range of consumer goods
This decade gives way to the turbulence and conflict of the 1960’s

12. Social Conformity in the 1950’s
Watch a “Date with the Family”
While you are watching the film answer the guided questions

13. Scavenger Hunt
Complete the Scavenger Hunt and answer guided questions.
Turn in all work.