America in 1950s

America in 1950s

Introduction

During the 1950s United States of America has witnessed huge growth and development in political and economic sector. An increase has been documented in the home construction and manufacturing industry among the economic boom of post World War II. During this era, a climate of political conservative has been developed due to The Cold War and its related conflicts, as semi-confrontation between US and Soviet Union has intensified during the whole decade. In Congress both houses congressional hearing has been held regarding anti-communism due to the fear of communism. Moreover, sentiments regarding anti-communism was prevailing during the 50s all over the United States. Conservatism and Conformity distinguished the social traditions of that time. In accordance with the above discussion, United States during 50s was usually regarded as being dual in nature i.e. highly materialistic and conservative. In relation to this, the era of 50s for the country has been considered as the period of conformity, compliance and to a little extent an era of rebellion. The most notable and significant events for the United States and for the world during the decade include:

The Korean War (1950-1953)

The election in 1952 and re-election in 1956 of Dwight D. Eisenhower an American hero of WW II and retired general of the United States Army as president of the United States of America.

Anti-communist fear during the McCarthy era and concerns of the Red Scare; and

The reaction of United States of America to Sputnik satellite launch in 1957 by the Soviet Union, an important milestone in the Cold War.

Major Political events during 1950s

On 1st November, 1950 an assignation attempt for American President Harry S. Truman has been staged by two Puerto Rican nationalists. The team of two comprises of Griselio Torresola regarded as the leader of the team and master mind having experience in firearms, and Oscar Collazo was acting as his accomplice and co-conspirator. The assault was attempted at the place known as Blair Hours, where the family of the president along with him was staying. Leslie Coffelt a policeman of White House was wounded mortally by the Torresola, who before expiring himself shot dead the master mind of the assault. The accomplice of Torresola, Collazo was captured alive and was trialed under charges of felony turned homicide and was sentenced to death by the court, which was later converted to life imprisonment.

On 4 September 1951, transcontinental television service was officially inaugurated by the then President of United States of America Harry Truman. During the inauguration he also addressed the nation. AT&T was responsible for carrying the address of the president from San Francisco and the speech was viewed or heard from the east coast to west coast simultaneously.

On 4 November, 1952 presidential elections were held in the United States in which Dwight D. Eisenhower defeat Adlai E. Stevenson and elected for the White House. On 20th January, 1953 Dwight was introduced and assumed office as President of the USA.

Capitalism and consumerism

The American society has witnessed a substantial increase in ...