1950s Culture and the American Dream

The postwar economic boom allowed Americans to indulge in automobiles, new products, homes, and many other things, creating a culture unique to the 1950s that defined much of America's current status today.

Business, for one, began to change. More and more men switched over to white collar jobs rather than blue collar jobs. Men who worked in the cities were able to provide a safe, financially secure lifestyle for their families in the suburbs while traveling to work in the latest model of automobile.

The rise of the automobile embodied an essential part of the American Dream. Consumerism and materialism became the goals of many middle class American families. Since more and more people were purchasing automobiles, the interstate highway system was put into place. The access to mobility allowed for new job opportunities in food businesses, shopping malls, gas stations, and drive in movies.

The role of women was very limited in the 1950s. They were expected to be stay home mothers and raise a good family, while their husbands worked in the cities and provided the income. Advertisements and television shows portrayed women as content, clean, organized, and up to date with the latest kitchen appliances.

Though consumerism and materialism allowed for economic growth and recovery from the Great Depression, there were some consequences to many people's perception of the perfect life of the American Dream. For example, the increased usage of the automobile not only created noise and accidents, but also was detrimental to the environment and further increased the gap between middle class Americans and those living in poverty. Furthermore, the American Dream prevented much diversity and individuality among families and businesses. The conformity of the 1950s caused rebellion in teens and other young people reflected the new age of rock 'n' roll and the 1960s.