America in the 20th Century

What contributed to the prosperity of Americans

following WWII?

With rationing of consumer goods over, business converted from production of war materials to consumer goods.

Americans purchased goods on credit and used the money saved from the war years.

The workforce shifted back to men, and most women returned to family responsibilities.

Labor unions merged and became more powerful; workers gained new benefits and higher salaries.

As economic prosperity continued and technology boomed, the next generation of women re-entered the labor force in large numbers.

What policies and programs expanded educational and employment opportunities for the military, women, and minorities?

G.I. Bill of Rights gave educational, housing, and employment benefits to World War II veterans.

Truman desegregated the armed forces.Fifty years ago, on July 26, 1948 President

Harry Truman issued Executive Order 9981. The order brought an end to racial segregation within the ranks of the United States military forces.

Civil Rights legislation led to increased educational, economic, and political opportunities for women and minorities.

How did the role of women change?

Workplace disadvantagesDiscrimination in hiring practices against womenLower wages for women than for men doing the same

jobImproved conditions

National Organization for Women (NOW) founded in 1966, NOW's goal has been "to take action" to

bring about equality for all women. Federal legislation to force colleges to give women

equal athletic opportunitiesThe Equal Rights Amendment, despite its failure,

created a wider range of options and advancements for women in business and public service.

Which industries benefited the most from the new technologies?Airline industry—JetsAutomobile industry and interstate

highway systemEntertainment and news media industryExploration of spaceComputer industrySatellite system— Telecommunications

(pagers, cell phones, television)Internet

What impact did the new technologies have on American life?Increased domestic and international

travel for business and pleasureGreater access to news and other

informationCheaper and more convenient means of

communicationGreater access to heating and air-

conditioningDecreased regional variation, resulting

from nationwide access to entertainment and information provided by national television and radio programming, Internet services, computer games

Now your turn:Write a paragraph that answers the following

question.

What impact has all this new technology had on your life?