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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
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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
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