Unit 8: Topic 5 - Culture after 1945 Flashcards
How did mass culture spread after 1945?
The widespread use of television allowed for the consumption of mass culture. Television was dominated by a few networks which produced sports, news, sitcoms, soap operas, and variety shows, ultimately creating a strong entertainment industry in the US.
Suburban sitcoms like Leave it to Beaver and Father Knows Best created an idea of the ideal American family, with a housewife mother, a working father, and playful yet obedient children. These popular shows provided Americans with a common language and shared values.
TV also shaped the way people got their news and information. News programs reached a broad audience and allowed political figures to communicate with the public.
Describe the Feminine Mystique and its impact.
The Feminine Mystique is a novel by Betty Friedan that describes the societal expectations and norms placed on women post-1945, namely the role of housewife and mother. Women’s worth depended on their role as wives and mothers, and they were often discouraged from pursuing their interests and goals. The government and media fueled these expectations.
The inability to explore other interests left a feeling of dissatisfaction among many women in America. The feminine mystique contributed to the marginalization of women in the workplace with wage gaps and discrimination.
Describe the role of advertising and credit cards after 1945.
Americans, especially in the middle class, had much more disposable income to spend. Advertisers became more aggressive and appealed to emotional needs, like belonging and status, by saying products were the answer to their needs.
Advertisements showcased more products than anyone could buy, leading to the rise of credit cards. People could buy what they wanted but couldn’t afford and pay it off over time. Credit cards also allow people to make purchases more conveniently without carrying large amounts of cash.
Describe religion post-1945.
Thousands of new churches and synagogues were built after WWII. Religion was a source of comfort and support during this time of uncertainty and change. There was a new emphasis on personal relationships with Jesus from new non-denominational churches and faith centers.
Conservative Christian denominations grew quickly and became known politically as the Religious Right. This was a Christian faction characterized by the strong support of socially conservative policies and a want to influence politics with their interpretation of Christianity. The Religious Right emerged as a part of the new conservatism that would impact the 1980s.
Religious leader Rev. Billy Graham was known for his powerful preaching style, and his message of hope resonated with many Americans. He played a significant role in shaping the US’s spiritual landscape and as an advisor to many political leaders.
Why did mass culture spread after 1945?
McCarthyism enforced a fear of conforming culturally. With the spread of communism, there was societal pressure to be a predictable American and stray away from ideas that could be linked to communism.
What are some examples of mass culture post-1945?
Rock n’ Roll music became exceedingly popular, especially amongst young people. Rock music had its roots in Black culture with musicians like Chuck Berry but was popularized through Elvis Presley.
Name branding, which refers to using specific names and symbols to identify different products, became common post-1945. Fast-food restaurants used this a lot, turning the nation away from “mom and pop” restaurants to more recognizable franchises like McDonald’s or Burger King.
What are examples of groups/people who challenged cultural conformity post-1945?
The Beatniks, also known as the Beat generation, were a group of poets who rebelled against conformity through poetry by championing a life of spontaneity and freedom.
J. D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye mocked and criticized the phoniness of mass culture during this time.
