Happy+Days+Debate

WERE THE 50s HAPPY DAYS??

V and E: The 1950s were happy days! First of all, Americans were beginning to feel more prosperous, not only because of technological improvements, but because of the baby boom because of the economy booming.

E and M: The 1950s were by no means happy days! The only Americans who were feeling prosperous were the wealthy ones living in suburbs. 1 on out 5 Americans lived in poverty, mostly in cities, that's 20% of the population!

V and E: Yes, the suburbs were growing! But you have the wrong idea. The suburbs were good because they brought good to industry and business because of things such as car sales. With so many people moving to the suburbs, it was necessary to own a car for transportation, so car sales grew.

E and M: So, you're saying car sales grew? Big deal, the only people who could buy them were the wealthy, like those who lived in suburbs. Inner-city residents hardly every owned or could own cars. Also, if anything grew in the U.S., it was the fear of communism. Just look at McCarthy and the Red Scare and what it did to the lives and careers of thousands of Americans. Just look at the Rosebergs...if anything, the 50s are characterized by fear.

V and E: This fear you speak of came along with positive things as well, such as entertainment! New and popular TV shows praised women for their roles as home-makers. Also, Hollywood was bringing out many new movies, musicals, and romances. But these weren't the only forms of entertainment brought out in the 50s. Rock 'n' Roll was extremely popular with iconic and innovative artists such as Elvis. Many other important people came from the 50s such as poets and writers.

E and M: But that doesn't cover up all the fear in America!! Everyone was pointing fingers, claiming others were communists, when they really weren't. It ruined many people's lives and the Red Scare is often compared to the Salem Witch Trials. It was not exactly a peaceful and safe time in America!

V and E: If everyone was so fearful, and nothing was peaceful, then how was President Kennedy elected? His youthful energy and confidence helped him win! His energy must have created some positive energy in America.

E and M: He was elected because everyone wanted change in America!! The Eisenhower years were considered boring!! He promised to change things in America, that's why he got elected!

V and E: Boring?! The 50s boring?! Did you forget all the excitement and energy created in America with the Civil Rights Movement starting? This brought huge change to America!

E and M: But was it a good change? 20% of the population lived in poverty! The Red Scare ruined the lives of so many! Like the gilded age, the wealth, entertainment and enjoyment of few covered the poverty of so many.