"The Fifties" by David Halberstam

Paper Summary:

David Halberstam's "The Fifties" provides insight into a decade that many people consider nostalgic. This paper discusses the political tension associated with that time and the varying social issues. It looks at not only what was occurring in the White House, but what occurred in the lives of some of the most powerful men in the world before they made it to the White House. There is also an examination of the roots of the Cold War, 1950s weaponry and the physicists behind them.

From the Paper:

"The 1950s were envisioned as a decade in which all Americans were slated for better lives, particularly after World War II. There was a sense of fulfillment in the lives of most people. The public became attached to the images of what Halberstam describes as perky wives, nice homes, and children who could attend good schools. At that time owning a home became the American dream. Most Americans could afford homes with only two years worth of salary. Ford brought the assembly line to America so people were able to afford cars in the United States, whereas in Europe manufacturers concentrated on creating cars for the wealthy."

More papers on "The Fifties" by David Halberstam:

• Book Review # 75550 : "'The Fifties' "
• Book Review # 44090 : "The Archivist" by Martha Cooley."

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