Unit 3: Growth and Change

A Day in the Life

A Young Person's Life in the 1950s

The 1950s were full of changes in America. All of the time and energy that had gone into the war effort was now going into new technology. Men returned from war and women left their posts in the factories. Many people moved to the suburbs to start families.

Links to the Past

TV Dinners
With the end of the war came changes in American lifestyle. Art, education and fashion were all influenced by the post-war landscape. Life also became more convenient because of new technology. Even eating dinner changed dramatically.

Dream Machines
Cars of the 1950s were distinctive and became an important part of a young person’s life in America. These new automobiles reflected modern technology and style.

Hula Hoops
Children living in the 1950s had an opportunity to enjoy pastimes when the war ended. Playing baseball, riding bicycles and listening to new music were all popular ways to spend an afternoon after school. Hula hoops also became very popular during this time.

Drive-In Restaurants
Before fast-food, there was the drive-in restaurant. People could drive up to one of these restaurants, order food that would be delivered by a “carhop” and enjoy it in the comfort of their car. Why do you think drive-in restaurants became less popular as time went on?