HIstory Unit 2 Theme 2 flashcards

All 20 cards

1. Card 1

   How did the Second World War impact the United States' post-war economic position?

   The United States emerged from World War II as the most powerful nation, experiencing economic expansion during wartime production unlike many European nations. This positioned it perfectly for post-war prosperity, with national income and industrial production more than doubling by 1945.

2. Card 2

   Define the term 'consumer society' in the context of the 1955-1963 period in the US.

   A 'consumer society' in this context refers to an era of unprecedented economic growth where consumer spending became a central driver of the economy. This period saw rapid expansion of consumer credit and widespread ownership of goods like cars and household appliances.

3. Card 3

   How did car ownership contribute to the US economic boom between 1955 and 1963?

   Car ownership stimulated multiple industries, including steel, rubber, oil, and road construction, creating jobs and encouraging consumer spending. The culture of planned obsolescence also ensured continuous demand for new vehicles, further boosting the economy.

4. Card 4

   What role did car manufacturers play in encouraging consumption during the post-war period?

   Car manufacturers actively encouraged consumption by introducing annual design changes, such as new colors, chrome detailing, and improved features. This strategy of planned obsolescence persuaded consumers to frequently replace their vehicles, driving continuous sales.

5. Card 5

   How did the growth of car culture transform American lifestyles and infrastructure?

   Car culture led to increased mobility, fostering the development of roadside services like motels and fast-food restaurants. It also transformed the landscape with highways, parking lots, and the construction of numerous out-of-town shopping malls and drive-in cinemas.

6. Card 6

   Define 'suburbanisation' and explain its demographic impact in post-war America.

   Suburbanisation is the process of population movement from urban centers to suburban areas. Between 1920 and 1960, the proportion of Americans living in suburbs increased significantly, largely populated by middle-class white families seeking spacious homes.

7. Card 7

   How did suburban growth contribute to the economic boom in the United States?

   Suburban growth stimulated industries such as construction, real estate, home appliances, and retail. The high demand for new housing and related goods created numerous jobs and significantly increased economic activity, driving prosperity.

8. Card 8

   What were some social consequences of suburbanisation in post-war America?

   Suburbanisation led to 'white flight' from cities, contributing to urban decline and loss of tax revenue for inner cities. Suburbs were also often racially segregated due to discriminatory housing practices, exacerbating social inequalities.

9. Card 9

   How did the 1956 National Interstate and Defense Highways Act contribute to the US economy?

   The Act planned the construction of over 41,000 miles of highways, boosting industries like construction and engineering. This improved infrastructure facilitated travel, commerce, supported suburban expansion, and enhanced the efficiency of goods transportation.

10. Card 10

    How did the shift towards white-collar and service industries impact the US economy by 1956?

    By 1956, white-collar workers outnumbered blue-collar workers, reflecting a transition to a service-based economy. This shift increased incomes, boosted consumer spending, and created a more flexible and dynamic economy less reliant on manual labor.

11. Card 11

    Explain the significance of increased female employment in the US economy by 1960.

    By 1960, 40% of women over 16 were working, significantly expanding the labor force. This increased household incomes, boosted consumer spending, and contributed to the overall economic growth and dynamism of the period.

12. Card 12

    How did Cold War defence spending influence job creation in the US economy?

    Cold War defence spending created numerous jobs, particularly in aerospace and technology industries. By 1957, the federal government employed 8 million workers, with defence industries expanding rapidly, further stimulating economic activity.

13. Card 13

    Why was consumerism central to the American Dream by 1960?

    By 1960, Americans had 30% more purchasing power, making consumerism a key part of achieving the 'American Dream'. High consumer demand for household appliances, entertainment, and goods drove production and sustained economic growth through continuous spending.

14. Card 14

    How did the availability of credit contribute to the post-war economic boom?

    The expansion of credit, through FHA/VA mortgages and the introduction of credit cards, made it easier for Americans to purchase homes and goods. This enabled consumers to spend beyond immediate income, significantly increasing demand for goods and services and driving economic expansion.

15. Card 15

    What new industries emerged due to technological innovation in the post-war period?

    Technological innovation led to the growth of new industries such as electronics (transistors, early computers), pharmaceuticals, and plastics and synthetic materials. These advancements improved living standards and increased demand for new consumer goods.

16. Card 16

    Define 'Reaganomics' and its core economic philosophy.

    Reaganomics refers to President Ronald Reagan's economic policies based on supply-side economics. Its core philosophy was that tax cuts and deregulation would stimulate investment and production, leading to economic growth.

17. Card 17

    How did Reagan's tax policies aim to stimulate the economy?

    Reagan's tax policies involved significant tax cuts, particularly for corporations and the wealthy. The aim was to encourage investment, savings, and production, which proponents believed would 'trickle down' to benefit the broader economy.

18. Card 18

    What was the impact of Reagan's deregulation policies on the US economy?

    Deregulation under Reagan aimed to reduce government intervention in industries, fostering business growth and competition. While it encouraged economic activity, it also reduced protections for workers and the environment.

19. Card 19

    How did Reagan's policies affect government spending and the national debt?

    Reagan's policies involved significant cuts to social welfare programs to reduce government expenditure. However, a dramatic increase in defense spending contributed to a growing national debt, despite efforts to curb overall government outlays.

20. Card 20

    What were the overall economic and social outcomes of Reaganomics?

    Reaganomics led to economic growth and reduced inflation after 1983. However, it also resulted in increased income inequality, disproportionately benefiting the wealthy, and contributed to a rising national debt.

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