-
Period: to
Which major event between 1950-1990 created the biggest impact in American history?
-
Vietnam War
This war was brought upon through the belief of a domino theory. This theory was that if one nation fell to communism then others would follow. The United States tired to prevent the spread of communism in Vietnam. This was a very controversial war with many at home having differing opinions on the escalation of this war and the ruthless killings happening to civilians in Vietnam. This led to many anti war measures at home. -
The introduction of "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley
The "Hound Dog" song by Elvis Presley was the song the put Elvis Presley alongside the genre of Rock and Roll on the map. Elvis Presley's career sky rocketed after this event. This song was performed nationwide on television and introduced new dance moves and lyrics that were seen as a departure from the norm. In the film Forest gives Elvis the idea to his pelvic thrust dance as young Forrest danced to "Ain't nothing but a hound dog." The Dance:[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzQ8GDBA8Is] -
Integration of University of Alabama
Two African American students, Vivian Malone and James Hood were ordered by the federal court to be able to attend the University. However, the Governor of Alabama, George Wallace would not allow it. George Wallace attempted to keep his promise of "segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever." George Wallace stood at the door and prohibited entrance to the two black students. In response President Kennedy ordered federal guards to allow the students into the school. -
Assassination of President Kennedy
John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas on November 22, 1963. Kennedy was riding in a convertible car when suddenly he was shot in the head by former U.S. marine Lee Harvey Oswald. The killing of the president shocked the nation and instilled fear into them. It made the country fear for their future and their well being. The Story:[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTgwkhkyXYE] -
Escalation of Vietnam War
In early August of 1964 two U.S. naval destroyers were allegedly attacked by Vietnam forces on the Gulf of Tonkin. This led to the passage of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution. This authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to take any action necessary to repel any attacks on the United States and prevent further aggression towards the United Sates. This escalated the war by increasing troops in Vietnam and our involvement. Song on Escalation: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXcG3tXYNF8] -
Black Panther Party
The Black Panther Party was a political organization which promoted black power and promoted black equality in all aspects of society. This includes black independence in self defense, peace for blacks, and justice. This party called for the exemption of African Americans from the military draft, and to be released from the grasps of White America. The party advocated to use violence when needed drawing inspiration from the late Malcolm X. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMzk89bYjiQ] -
Hippie Movement and Summer of Love
The hippie counterculture movement was a movement that rejected the social norms of mainstream life of Americans. These drew influence from beats and beatniks who also rejected social norms but through art and literature. The Hippie Movement also arose due to opposition of the Vietnam War. Their motto was "Make love, not war" and they practiced many different things. These included recreational use of drugs such as LSD, Marijuana, and other hallucinogenics alongside open sexual relationships. -
Hippie Anti-Vietnam War Protest in D.C.
The Hippie Movement during the 1960's strongly opposed the United States involvement in war. They believed in peace and prosperity rather than war. The protest in Washington D.C. was against the Vietnam War. As many as half a million people demonstrated their antiwar protests in D.C. This believed to be the largest antiwar protest in United States history. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nY0X3VoBoYI] -
Kent State Massacre
On May 4, 1970, 9 Kent State students were injured and 4 students were killed when the Ohio National Guard opened fire in a crowd protesting the Vietnam War. This event sparked a nationwide student strike which closed many universities and colleges. This event symbolized the deep sharp social division that divided the nation during the Vietnam War. This was a watershed event that would lead citizens and students to question our nations plausibility. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lmd6CHah7Wg] -
Watergate Scandal
The Watergate Scandal was a break-in at the Democratic National Committee offices in the Watergate complex in Washington, D.C. The burglars had been caught tapping in phones and stealing documents in connection to the reelection of President Nixon since he was unpopular with his involvement in the Vietnam War. Nixon took drastic measures to cover up the crimes. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeWjVLwV3Zk] -
Resignation of Richard Nixon
After the events of the Watergate Scandal, President Nixon tried to cover up his involvement. Nixon used obstruction of justice to cover up his crimes. He paid the burglars in hush money and even ordered the CIA to intervene FBI investigation. Nixon also had tapes recording all conversations in the oval office. Facing impeachment, Nixon releases the tapes revealing his definite involvement and he resigned. Nixon Resignation speech:[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEOGJJ7UKFM] -
HIV/AIDS epidemic
The HIV/AIDS viruses were sexually transmitted diseases that appeared in America in the 1980s. The virus was rapidly spreading throughout America. The Reagan administration did little to combat the epidemic and failed to declare a national health emergency. This disease killed nearly 100,000 people in the United States during the 1980s.
