Glossary
Credit Cards
Financial instruments introduced in the 1950s that allowed individuals to borrow money for purchases, contributing to a consumer-oriented society and changing payment methods.
Example:
The ability to buy a new refrigerator on credit, rather than saving cash, highlighted how credit cards transformed American purchasing habits.
Feminine Mystique
A term coined by Betty Friedan describing the societal expectation in the post-WWII era that encouraged women to define their identity solely through their roles as wives and mothers.
Example:
Many women felt the pressure of the feminine mystique, leading them to question their dissatisfaction despite seemingly having the 'perfect' suburban life.
Name Branding
The practice of using a specific name, term, or symbol to identify and differentiate a product or service, leading to strong brand identities and influencing consumer behavior.
Example:
The golden arches of McDonald's are a classic example of name branding, instantly recognizable and associated with fast food globally.
Non-Denominational Churches
Newly styled religious institutions that emerged post-WWII, emphasizing a personal relationship with Jesus and often featuring conservative theologies and large community faith centers.
Example:
Many families seeking a less traditional worship experience found a spiritual home in a growing non-denominational church that focused on community outreach.
Popular Music Mass Marketing
The application of advertising strategies to promote and sell music to specific demographics, influencing musical trends and the commercial viability of artists and genres.
Example:
Record labels used extensive radio and print ads to push new artists, demonstrating the power of popular music mass marketing in creating chart-topping hits.
Religious Right
A political movement primarily composed of conservative Christian denominations, like the Southern Baptists, that grew rapidly after WWII and became influential in American politics.
Example:
The rise of the Religious Right in the late 20th century significantly impacted debates on social issues like abortion and school prayer.
Rev. Billy Graham
A prominent evangelist who rose to fame post-WWII, known for his powerful preaching, large-scale revivals, and television programs that brought Christianity to millions and influenced political leaders.
Example:
Through his televised 'Crusades,' Rev. Billy Graham became a household name, delivering messages of hope and salvation to a global audience.
Television
A mass medium that became a central part of American households by the late 1940s, profoundly shaping culture, society, and industries like entertainment, news, and advertising.
Example:
Families gathered around the glowing screen to watch the latest episode of 'I Love Lucy,' making television a shared cultural experience.