Us Conformity Flashcards
(14 cards)
What was the GI Bill (1944) and how did it impact post-war America?
The GI Bill provided returning WWII veterans with government-funded loans and access to free college education and vocational training. This led to a surge in skilled workers, increased consumer spending, homeownership, and boosted the economy by creating a more educated middle class.
The GI Bill is officially known as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944.
How did the Baby Boom affect American society in the 1950s?
The Baby Boom (1946–1964) resulted in a population explosion, increasing demand for consumer goods, suburban housing, cars, and public services like schools and hospitals. It reinforced traditional family values and helped fuel post-war economic prosperity.
The Baby Boom refers to a significant increase in birth rates following WWII.
What was the significance of suburban growth in the 1950s?
Suburbs expanded rapidly, symbolized by developments like Levittowns, which provided affordable, mass-produced homes to millions. Between 1948–1958, 11 million new homes were built, leading to white middle-class migration to suburbs and reinforcing racial and economic segregation.
Levittowns were among the first mass-produced suburbs, created by developer William Levitt.
How did car culture shape American life in the 1950s?
By 1960, 75% of families owned a car, which transformed commuting, shopping, and leisure. The Interstate Highway Act (1956) built 41,000 miles of roads, linking cities and suburbs. It enabled the growth of fast food, motels, and consumer convenience, while also weakening inner-city economies.
The Interstate Highway Act was a major infrastructure project that changed American transportation.
How did television influence American culture during the 1950s?
TV ownership rose from 9% in 1950 to 87% in 1960. Shows like Leave it to Beaver and I Love Lucy promoted family values, gender roles, and consumerism. It became a powerful tool for advertising and social conformity, shaping public opinion and lifestyle expectations.
Television became a staple of American households, influencing social norms and behaviors.
How much did disposable income on average rise by
150$
1950–
What was the unemployment rate in 1950
4%
What did people spend money on?
Consumerism and Suburaziarion
What was the primary purpose of the Federal Housing Act of the 1950s?
To provide federal funding for the construction of public housing and to improve housing conditions.
True or False: The Federal Housing Act of 1950s aimed to promote home ownership among lower-income families.
True
Fill in the blank: The Federal Housing Act was part of a broader initiative to address _____ in urban areas.
housing shortages
Which government agency was primarily responsible for administering the Federal Housing Act of the 1950s?
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA)
Multiple Choice: Which of the following was NOT a feature of the Federal Housing Act of the 1950s? A) Low-interest loans B) Public housing projects C) Tax incentives for private landlords D) Urban renewal efforts
C) Tax incentives for private landlords
How much money was provided in the federal housing act?
1 billion
