Ronald Reagan's Fifties Revival
In Ronald Reagan's Fifties Revival, historian Lucy Worsley learns how the past was revisited in the late '60s and early '70s. Ronald Reagan wanted to recreate the 1950s version of the American Dream, when Civil Rights, Watergate, Vietnam, and feminism did not exist. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.
Lesson Express
Q: Ronald Reagan often spoke about “restoring” America to the values and prosperity of the 1950s. What do you think he was referring to? What aspects of the 1950s do you think he wanted to bring back, and how might these ideals have been different for various groups of people?
A: Reagan was likely referring to the idealized image of the 1950s as a time of economic prosperity, social stability, and strong family values. For many, the 1950s represented an era of post-World War II economic growth, rising homeownership, and expansion. For others, such as marginalized groups, times were more difficult. [This can serve as a class discussion of the time in history, positive changes, and challenges.]
Q: During Reagan's era, there was a strong nostalgia for the 1950s, a time often depicted as a golden age. How might this vision of the 1950s have been an oversimplification or even a “fake reality”? In what ways might that nostalgic view ignore important social, political, and cultural issues such as the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and gender inequality?
A: The 1950s were not a "golden age" for everyone. The nostalgia surrounding the decade often glosses over the serious social and political struggles that were occurring such as the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and gender inequality.
Q: Reagan's message of returning to “traditional” values from the 1950s resonated with many, but it was also criticized for ignoring or downplaying key struggles of that era. Is it possible to create a society that values both progress and tradition? How can we learn from the past without romanticizing it or ignoring the struggles faced by marginalized groups?
A: It’s possible to create a society that values both progress and tradition but it requires a balanced approach. It is important to acknowledge the difficulties of the past and to create more inclusive traditions. Tradition can provide a sense of stability, community, and cultural identity, while progress allows society to evolve and address issues of justice, equality, and modern needs.