Women In The 1950s And 1960s

The 1950s and 1960s were a thrilling ride for Americans as the United States teetered on the brink of nuclear war and was in the middle of several key social movements. Americans were tired of the hypocritical beliefs that had previously been held in the United States and fought against these beliefs in full force. The civil rights movement, women’s movement, and the counterculture all fought for their rights to be acknowledged and were determined to have their voices heard by rebelling against the traditional beliefs of America.
The civil rights movement was a prime example of Americans fighting for their rights by rebelling against tradition. The movement, headed by Dr. Martin Luther King, pushed for change through nonviolent protests. From the creation of the United States until the 1960s, African Americans had been heavily oppressed through segregation. They were tired of this inequality in their lives and strived to do everything in their power, even sacrifice their lives, for equal rights across all races. As stated by Dr. King in his speech about Rosa Parks, the problem had existed for endless
There was a growing displeasure among women during the 1950s and 1960s that resulted in a burning desire for gender rights. Women were tired of the seemingly dead end role they were forced to play in society. No longer would women happily be housewives and have no real opportunity to branch out and better themselves. As stated in the National Organization for Women’s Call for Equality, women were ready to take part in a worldwide revolution that would allow women to develop to their fullest potential. Similar to the civil rights movement, women used nonviolent protests and demonstrations in order to gain the attention of America. Not only were people rebelling against unequal race and gender rights, but Americans were also fighting against the mainstream