The History of the United States, 2nd Edition Season 1 Episode 72 The Affluent Society

The History of the United States, 2nd Edition is a documentary series that takes viewers on a journey through the history of the United States, from the early days of colonial America to present day. In season 1 episode 72, titled "The Affluent Society," viewers explore the economic boom of the post-World War II era and the rise of the middle class in America.

The episode begins by examining the economic and social conditions of the United States in the years following World War II. As the country emerged victorious from the war, there was a spirit of optimism and confidence among the American people. This optimism was reflected in the economy, which experienced a period of tremendous growth and prosperity.

The episode goes on to explore the factors that contributed to this economic boom, including the development of new technologies, the expansion of American industry, and the rise of consumer culture. In particular, the episode focuses on the impact of the automobile industry, which created millions of jobs and transformed the way Americans lived and worked.

As the economy boomed, so too did the middle class. For the first time in history, a substantial percentage of Americans were able to earn a comfortable living and enjoy an affluent lifestyle. This new middle class was characterized by a high degree of consumption and materialism, with Americans increasingly defining their worth in terms of the possessions they owned.

However, the episode also explores the darker side of this era of affluence. It examines the inequalities that remained in American society, particularly in terms of race and gender. Despite the opportunities created by the economic boom, many Americans continued to face discrimination and prejudice.

Overall, "The Affluent Society" paints a complex and nuanced portrait of a pivotal era in American history. It shows how the post-war years were a time of both tremendous opportunity and significant social challenges, and how the legacy of this era continues to shape American society to this day.