Impact Of Affluence + Consumerism

Question 1

What were the signs of affluence in society in 1950s

Answer 1

-surge ownership of consumer goods e.g. tvs, washing machines, refrigerators + new furniture — 1957-59 number households own to rose 33%
-this brought on by hire purchase — buyer pays deposits + then pays monthly to hire item until fully paid off
-hire purchase was symbol of affluence along with advertising industry e.g. after itv launched 1955 people accustomed to glossy adverts

Question 2

What was the boom in car ownership

Answer 2

-car ownership rose 25% 1957-59
-greater demand new roads incl motor ways e.g. construction of motorway began 1958
-car travel changed holidays + holiday calls reaches peak popularity 1950s e.g. 60000 each week with Butlins
-1957-63 1200 miles new or upgraded roads completed
-people also time off + disposable income to afford cars + holidays but abroad holidays still less than 2% ‘luxury’