Why did New York Times call the 1964 World's Fair "a glittering mirror of our national opulence"?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1964_New_York_World's_Fair
To understand why the New York Times called the 1964 World's Fair a "glittering mirror of our national opulence," we need to look into the historical context of the event and the perception of the fair at that time.
The 1964 World's Fair, officially known as the "New York World's Fair 1964-1965," was held in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, New York City. It was a large-scale exposition showcasing technology, innovation, and culture from various countries around the world. The fair was significant in capturing the spirit of American progress and prosperity during the mid-20th century.
The years following World War II marked a period of economic growth and optimism in the United States known as the "post-war economic boom" or the "Golden Age of Capitalism." This period was characterized by increased consumer spending, technological advancements, and widespread confidence in the future. The 1964 World's Fair was seen as a reflection of this American prosperity and was designed to illustrate the country's technological and economic prowess.
The phrase "a glittering mirror of our national opulence" suggests that the New York Times viewed the World's Fair as a grand display of American wealth and abundance. The fair showcased futuristic exhibits such as the Ford Mustang, the Picturephone (an early videophone prototype), and showcased Walt Disney's animatronic exhibit called "It's a Small World." These exhibits, among others, were seen as representations of American affluence, technological superiority, and cultural influence.
To determine the exact reason behind the New York Times' statement, you may want to consult the specific article or editorial in which this phrase was used. Examining the journalistic context and opinions expressed in the time frame surrounding the fair will provide more nuanced insights into the perspective of the New York Times and perhaps shed light on their reasoning behind calling the fair a "glittering mirror of our national opulence."