The Fabulous Fifties Postwar Period

The Mixed Emotions of the 50’s Postwar period was a period of optimism

and uncertainty Realities of Cold War made many

Canadian’s fear another war But, economic prosperity made

Canadian’s more confident about their future

Veterans Return Home Postwar period saw the return of normal

family life for Canadians Veterans came back to their families Some created new families Some brought home war brides and their

children who were born during the war

War Bride: a term used to describe marriages between soldiers and foreigners during the war

The Baby Boom Most Canadian’s were now starting or

adding to their families The birth rate during the postwar

period went up dramatically Known as the “baby boom” Children born during this time have

become a socially influential group

The Baby Boom: A 20 Year Period

From postwar (1950) to the mid 1960’s Canada saw a rise in the number of babies being born. Birth’s during this period more than doubled from the war period.

The Result? A young-centered society Production of material

goods & toys increased rapidly (big demand!)

Schools were built to accommodate new students

Job creation (teachers needed!)

The age of Consumerism

Social and Economic Change As baby boomers grew up, demands in different

areas changed For example: Once this generation was University

bound, Universities prepared for higher enrolment

For example: The housing market became more competitive and houses became more expensive as demand increased– construction and jobs boomed

For example: Once this generation became retirement age, focus was on development of pension plans and health care for seniors!

Consumer Society Transformation from production of military

equipment to consumer goods People lined up to buy new products

Nylon stockings, wash and wear clothing, disposable tissues, hair spray, cake mix, lawnmowers, vacuum cleaners, sewing machines

Demand for these products made manufacturers hire new employees!

Canadians found steady jobs = confidence in spending

Television Comes to Canada

TV comes to Canada in 50’s

Baby boomers glued to TV & commercial messages

Powerful cultural driving force

Many Canadians received American broadcasting (I Love Lucy, Howdy Doody)

Television Takes Over! Canadians were

captivated by the TV

Creation of TV trays & TV dinners allowed for uninterrupted TV watching!

No one wanted to miss a show!

TV and Gender Roles The shows that were airing during this

time had very distinct representations of gender roles

As we watch the following clips of shows from the 50’s, 60’s and modern day television, fill in your charts with your observations!

1950’s Television: I love lucy & leave it to beaver

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4kIwWHP8Vchttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzjOYY0g4wQ

1960’s Television: My 3 sons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Akh61LRAZ_4

Today’s television: modern family

http://www.free-tv-video-online.me/player/vodlocker.php?id=ajvgtuk7oxki

Gender role ObservationsWhat changes do you notice from the 1950’s to modern day?

The Feminine Mystique Women’s role is solely about

Maintaining a home Pleasing their husbands Raising their children

By the early 1960’s women realized they were not happy with this limited role

Sparked a wave in feminism Demanded more equality In the workforce, women questioned why they were

paid less than men & why they weren’t considered for promotions

Brought attention to the gender bias during that time

The Teenager Times were changing People no longer rushed into work and

marriage Kids were taking their time to go to

University “Teenagers” became a distinct group in

the 1950’s Ages 13-19 Had both leisure time and spending money

The Teenage Culture Strict rules were imposed on this group

Wearing blue jeans to school = suspension This group of teens began rebelling against this

formal society Developed a culture with its own language,

music and fashions

What does this remind you of??

Rock n’ Roll Was an important element to the emergence of

this new teenage culture This music was an instant hit with the teenagers,

however, parents did not like it Felt it was too energetic and rebellious Criticized for promoting immorality and

delinquency Describe as: crude, revolting and vulgar Said to have a corrupting influence on youth

The more parents protested, the more teenagers bought and listened to it!!

1950’s Slang: Guess the Meaning Ankle Biter Big Tickle Bread Circled Cranked Cut the Gas Dolly

1950’s Slang: Answers Ankle Biter – small child Big Tickle – really funny Bread – money Circled – married Cranked – excited Cut the gas – be quiet! Dolly – cute girl