1. 1950s Recap

2. Economy Economic Boom – Full recovery from Depression and WWII – Consumerism New technologies radically change life – Household appliances – Auto-culture Material wealth defines success

3. Society Baby Boom – Returning soldiers, economic prosperity, glorification of women’s role as mother/housewife Conformity was important – Suburbs – Corporate America – Media reinforces stereotypes Rebellion – Teen’s: Rock and Roll – Beat movement (precursor to counterculture/hippie movement of 60s

4. The Other Side Segregation and Discrimination of minorities Decline of urban areas – Growth of Suburbs – White Flight – Poverty in cities