Postwar American Society

The United States became involved in the Vietnam War once the country was taken over by communism. During this time, the United States was in the process of persuading countries to adopt a capitalist system while simultaneously trying to slow down the growth of communism. Fighting alongside South Vietnam, the United States did not end up victorious, creating controversy back home (3).

During the 1960's, many young Americans began to protest against the "system" and try to make the country a more tolerant place for all. This point in time brought out a group of people known as "hippies," people who acted with a sense of rebellion and popularized many pop culture trends (5). Drug use in young Americans also began to rise, with many psychedelics and marijuana being very popular options. Using these factors to connect, this group of activists were able to form a very large group and contest many decisions being made by leaders at this time.

Martin Luther King Jr. was an American activist that fought for the equal rights of African Americans. King encouraged African Americans to fight for their rights in a peaceful manner and encouraged them to stand up for themselves when they are being targeted (7). King was a very prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, playing a big part in their eventual victory. His activism was important but came with consequences, and he was eventually assasinated.

John F. Kennedy was the President of the United States from 1960 until his eventual assassination in 1963. Kennedy was the youngest President the United States had ever elected and was a popular candidate due to his progressive views. Kennedy had the goal to increase the well-being of American citizens, whites and minorities, and strived to protect the rights of citizens who were being wronged. Kennedy and his beliefs helped out the African American community and encouraged new legislation to be discussed (9).