Heimlich's History: Unit 8, Topic 14 - Conservative Movement (1945-1980)

Introduction

Focus on conservative backlash during the period of rising liberalism (1945-1980).
Conservative reaction to cultural shifts, especially post-1960s.

Lyndon Johnson's Great Society: A series of programs aimed at eliminating poverty and racial injustice.
Women's Liberation Movement: Advances in women's rights and changing family structures.

Cultural Shifts: Conservative discomfort with street protests against Vietnam War, women's movement, and civil rights advances.
Key Conservative Groups:
- Young Americans for Freedom: Conservative college students supporting Barry Goldwater in 1964.
- John Birch Society: Opposed communism, advocated limited government, and engaged in conspiracy theories.
Moderate Conservatism:
- William F. Buckley: Influential in denouncing radical conservatism through "National Review."

Roe v. Wade (1973): Legalization of abortion unified Protestant and Catholic Christians.
Key Figures:
- Jerry Falwell: Founded Moral Majority, blending Christianity with conservative politics.
- James Dobson: "Focus on the Family" radio program advocating traditional family values.

Economic Turmoil:
- Oil Crisis: Contributing to economic instability in the 1970s.
- Stagflation: High inflation with stagnant economic growth, leading to a recession.
Watergate Scandal:
- Nixon's Resignation: Following the scandal, leading to loss of public trust in government.

Equal Rights Amendment (ERA):
- Proposed constitutional amendment for gender equality; failed due to conservative opposition (e.g., Phyllis Schlafly).
Affirmative Action:
- Bakke Case (1978): Supreme Court decision against racial quotas but allowed race as a factor in admissions.

Overview of the conservative movement's growth and its climax in the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980, to be discussed in the next unit.