Introduction
The 1960s and 1970s were significant social, economic, and political changes in the United States and worldwide. In this essay, I will review the prominent trends that have characterized these decades. My thesis is that there have been significant social changes during this period, such as increased activism and human rights, as well as new economic and political strategies that have continued to be important today.
Social Changes
The 1960s and 1970s saw considerable social modifications in the United States. Civil society activism and the defense of human rights evolved into an essential component of the social movement of the time. These movements fought for the rights of colored people, women, and LGBT communities and led to the creation of new laws, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Education for All Children Act of 1975 (Song et al.). It has also led to new forms of activism, such as feminism and the national liberation movement.
Economic Shifts
Economically, the 1960s and 1970s were also marked by significant changes in the US (Song et al.). The late 1960s saw further automation and computerization of production and the development of transport infrastructure (Song et al.). These changes have created new industries and jobs. In addition, the late 1970s had been marked by high inflation and recession, which led to a revival of economic activity and a new economic development model.
Political Transformations
Politically, the US and the rest of the world have faced new challenges, such as the Vietnam War, which has sparked massive protests in the US and elsewhere. In addition, nationalism and democracy began to spread worldwide, as did the movement toward decolonization. New States have been created in many countries, and many countries have become more democratic. In the US, this led to a change in foreign policy aimed at supporting democratic rights and freedoms in other countries.
Cultural Metamorphoses
These years have also seen significant changes in culture and the arts. Young people opposed traditional norms and values, and new movements in music, literature, and film, such as hippie culture, beatniks, rock and roll, and New Hollywood movies, emerged (Song et al.). These movements expressed dissatisfaction with the existing order and became a symbol of protest and freedom.
Scientific Breakthroughs
In addition, the 1960s and 1970s were a time of considerable progress in science and technology (Song et al.). Important discoveries have been completed in medicine, space research, information technology, and other specializations. These new technologies have formed new enterprises and employment and have had a meaningful social influence on civilization.
Conclusion
Overall, the 1960s and 1970s were a period of significant social, economic, and political change and major changes in society, economy, politics, culture, and science. They were a period of intense human rights movement and new forms of activism. These changes have created new opportunities and challenges, and their impact continues to be felt today.
It is important to remember that many of these changes were made possible by active citizenship, which meant that the main drivers were people who believed in the need for change and were willing to fight for their rights and freedoms. The economy has undergone essential changes, creating new industries and jobs, but there has also been an economic downturn. New challenges had emerged in politics, such as the Vietnam War and the movement towards decolonization, which had led to the creation of new States and a change in foreign policy. Even though these changes took place long ago, their consequences continue to affect modern society and are a crucial stage in the history of the US and the world.
Work Cited
Song, Xi, el al. “Long-term Decline in Intergenerational Mobility in the United States Since the 1850s.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, vol. 117, no. 1, National Academy of Sciences, 2020, pp. 251–58. Web.