Heimlich's History - Post-1945 Economy and Migration

Overview

• Focus: Economy after 1945 and patterns of migration
• Learning Objectives:
  1. Explain the causes of economic growth post-World War II
  2. Explain the causes and effects of migration of various American groups after 1945

Economic Growth After World War II

• Economic Boom in the 1950s:
  • Causes:
    • Increased Productivity: Continued from wartime productivity.
    • Federal Spending on Infrastructure: Notable example is the Interstate Highway System.
  • Benefits for Veterans:
    • Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (GI Bill):
      • Provided opportunities for veterans to attend college and obtain low-interest loans for homes and businesses.
  • Baby Boom:
    • Massive increase in population (over 50 million people added between 1945 and 1960).
    • Led to increased demand for housing construction, primarily in suburbs.

Suburbanization

• Growth of Suburbs:
  • Enabled by the automobile and expanded roadways.
  • Middle-class, predominantly white migration from cities to suburbs.
  • Levittown:
    • Built by William J. Levin, featured mass-produced and low-cost homes.
    • Criticized for being monotonous, but affordable and met the housing demand.
  • Interstate Highway Act of 1956:
    • Facilitated fast travel from suburbs to urban areas.

Migration to Sun Belt States

• Mass Migration Trends:
  • Movement to southern and western states (Sun Belt).
  • Motivations:
    • Desire for warmer climates and avoidance of cold northern winters.
    • Improved transportation with the highway system.
  • Economic and Political Effects:
    • Many migrants were veterans and families seeking jobs in the defense industry.
    • Shift of defense spending and political power to the south and west.

Conclusion

• The post-war economic boom and migration patterns significantly reshaped American society.
• Essential knowledge for understanding these trends is crucial for succeeding in AP U.S. History.