Economic recovery post-WWII brought new hopes and opportunities.
Period marked by political hysteria and a strong civil rights movement.
Post-war Prosperity
G.I. Bill of Rights (1944): Prevented post-war recession by investing $13 billion in education, training, housing, and business loans for veterans.
Baby Boom: 1946 saw a record number of births leading to a demand in housing.
Suburban Growth: Mass-produced homes in suburbs like Levittowns became symbols of the American dream, featuring white picket fences and modern appliances.
Consumerism: Rise in demand for products like refrigerators, cars, and TVs.
Federal Aid Highway Act (1956): Enhanced the national highway system, facilitating access to shopping malls and drive-in theaters.
Despite prosperity, many lived below the poverty line.
President Harry S. Truman's Fair Deal
Took office after President Franklin D. Roosevelt's death in 1945.
Elected in 1948, continued Roosevelt’s legacy with the Fair Deal.
Achievements:
Desegregated the military via Executive Order 9981 (1948).
Increased minimum wage from 40 to 75 cents.
Improved social security coverage.
Allocated funds for slum clearance and low-cost housing.
Created a commission for racial injustice issues.
Challenges:
Failed to introduce national health insurance due to congressional opposition.
Inability to pass civil rights laws, faced opposition from southern Democrats.
Conclusion
Post-war era was a complex mix of economic prosperity and social challenges.
American dream was both a reality and an aspiration for many.