UNIT 5
Decades of Change
LESSON 9
Facing New Challenges
In the 1960s and 1970s, the United States experienced significant social, political, and economic changes. These changes brought about numerous challenges that had to be faced and overcome.
One of the biggest challenges was the fight for civil rights. African Americans, as well as other minority groups such as Hispanics and Native Americans, faced discrimination and inequality in various forms. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a major milestone in the fight for equality, but the struggle continued in the form of protests, boycotts, and legal battles.
Another challenge was the Vietnam War. The war was controversial from the start and divided the country. Many young men were drafted to fight in the war, while others protested against it. The war also had a significant impact on the economy, as it was costly and led to inflation and economic instability.
Environmental issues also became a major challenge during this time period. The environmental movement gained traction in the 1960s, with concerns about pollution and the impact of human activities on the natural world. This led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passing of numerous environmental laws, such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
Additionally, the rise of new technologies such as computers and the internet created new challenges for society. While these technologies brought about many benefits, they also led to concerns about privacy, cybersecurity, and the impact on job markets.
Overall, the 1960s and 1970s were characterized by significant changes and challenges. However, these challenges also led to progress and advancements in civil rights, environmental protection, and technology that continue to shape society today.