The Golden Decade: Why the 1950s were Extraordinary
The 1950s were a remarkable decade, a period of significant transformation and cultural change. Following the devastation of the Great Depression and World War II, the 1950s represented a shift towards prosperity, technological advancements, and a new era of consumerism. Here, we delve into what made this decade so unique and its lasting impact.
Breaking Away from Hardship
From the 1930s, characterized by the Great Depression, to the late 1940s, marked by the aftermath of World War II, the post-war years were ones of rebuilding and recovery. The 1950s brought a sense of stability and progress as the world looked to move forward and progress on a larger scale. The recovery and rebuilding efforts had already begun, and it was time for the world to make the most of peace and prosperity.
Everything seemed to be happening bigger, better, and faster. New technologies, such as television, rock and roll music, and advanced radio broadcasting, were changing the way people lived and interacted. The stars that used to shine only in the heavens now adorned the living rooms of many, thanks to the burgeoning television industry, and magazines highlighted celebrities brighter than ever before.
Consumerism and Culture
The 1950s witnessed a significant surge in consumerism and a new wave of cultural trends. Cars, once rare, became a symbol of status and freedom. New models featured sleek designs, multiple cylinders, and powerful engines, making them more desirable. The convertible model especially captivated the imagination during this decade. Advertising even took on a musical tone: “see the USA in your Chevrolet.”
Entertainment also reached new heights in the 1950s. Motion pictures not only grew but also became more violent and provocative. They were in your face and often featured music in a significant way. For example, the movie Blackboard Jungle showcased the scene where JD in the schoolyard is introduced to rock and roll by Bill Haley's Rock Around the Clock, which awakened a new generation to the changing musical landscape.
The decade also gave rise to a new concept: the suburbs. This transformation in living options meant that a new word had entered the vernacular. Families, including those with many children like the author, moved out of urban areas to the burgeoning suburbs, seeking a measure of privacy and space.
Personal Reflection
Though the author was born in the 1950s, personal memories of this era are limited, due to the author's early childhood. Growing up, the author was one of ten children, with a tragic loss of a brother. However, the author believes that the mid-1950s might have been a pleasant time, as many things seemed simpler, particularly in terms of daily life and post-war recovery.
The 1950s marked a significant transformation in terms of material wealth. Families, including the author's, gradually moved from simpler living conditions towards greater affluence. New homes cost between 4,000 and 5,000 dollars, making homeownership accessible to many. The Western genre dominated television, especially in black and white, and smoking was a common social habit. Drunk driving often resulted in being escorted home, reflecting the more relaxed enforcement of rules compared to today.
Conclusion
The 1950s were indeed a golden decade, marked by a blend of social changes, technological advancements, and cultural shifts. It was a time when the world began to rebuild and thrive, setting the stage for future generations to continue the progress.