Popular Culture In The 1950s

Question 1

What was different about teenagers after WW2 than in previous generations and why?
(2)

Answer 1

They had more leisure time and more spending power.
More leisure time as they didn’t have to get a job to help support the family.
More spending power America grew wealthier, and because many children finished high school and went to college.

Question 2

In 1957, on average teenagers spent how much per week? How did this compare with before? (2)

Answer 2

1957 - between $10 and $15 a week.
1940 - between $1 and $2 a week.

Question 3

Name 2 film stars who became very popular with teenagers for being ‘rebellious’. (2)

Answer 3

James Dean
Marlon Brando

Question 4

What new style of music appeared in the 1950s and became popular with teenagers?

Answer 4

Rock and Roll

Question 5

Why did many see this new form of music called rock and roll as ‘dangerous”?

Answer 5

Because it was linked to teenage crime and gang culture.

Question 6

Name a very famous artist who sang this new type of ‘dangerous’ music as he wiggled his hips!

Answer 6

Elvis Presley

Question 7

In 1956, what percentage of Americans tuned in to a performance by Elvis?

Answer 7

82%

Question 8

By the end of the 1950s, what percentage of US households had a TV?

Answer 8

9 out of every 10 households.

Question 9

List 3 reasons as to why not everyone benefited from changes in popular culture. (3)

Answer 9

Elderly - didn’t benefit from the boom. In 1960, 68% of people over 65 had an annual income of $1000 while average factory earnings were $4000

Women - women who pursued high flying business careers often faces discrimination.

African Americans - improvements to their rights were blocked by republican politicians.