The 1950s

In the 1950s, Americans began to watch T.V. more and listen to music more. Certain Musicians such and Elvis Presley (1935-1977), Little Richard (1932-) and Buddy Holly (1936-1959) and entertainers such as Lucille Ball (1911-1989), Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993) and (1926-1962) were very popular. One of the reasons that these people became so popular is because for practically the first time there was a teenage culture. Teenagers were no longer expected to act like responsible adults at such a young age. Both children and teenagers saw their adolescence extended. Full High School attendance became expected and teenagers dropping out to work to support their families and themselves was frowned upon as High School became thought of as mandatory instead of a privilege (usually from now on kids dropping out of High School did so for more selfish reasons). Dating became less family oriented as more and more teenagers had access to cars and therefore began going out as a couple on dates instead staying home with their families or going on group dates. Teenagers had more of a disposable income as whatever money they made (or were given) could be spent on themselves. This money went to clothes, movies and music. Thus, the clothing, movies and music industries grew lots.

Besides the fact that so many people died and Nazi Germany was so much in control, World War II was very important. When soldiers came home from WWII they moved their families to the 'suburbs'. The image we have of the 1950s is of cute, little, well-managed households, with perfect, little housewives (wearing aprons and poofy dresses), family dinners, people getting along and everyone just being happy and cheerful all the time. Peoples image of the '60s is lots of chaos and rebellion. Certainly chaos and rebellion became 'cooler' in the 1960s but, the 1950s weren't perfect either. Many of the problems that needed to be addressed during this time (such as racism) were ignored or glossed over.