U.S. History Keyterm 25

Kitchen Debate

A series of impromptu exchanges between U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev during a 1959 exhibition in Moscow, highlighting the differences between American and Soviet lifestyles.

Sputnik

The first artificial Earth satellite launched by the Soviet Union in 1957, marking the start of the Space Race.

Baby Boom

A significant increase in the birth rate in the United States following World War II, lasting from 1946 to 1964, which led to a demographic shift and influenced various aspects of American society. There were over 4.3 million births.

Allen Ginsberg

A prominent American poet and leading figure of the Beat Generation, known for his poem "Howl" which challenged social norms and addressed issues such as capitalism, sexuality, and mental health.

The Beats

A group of American writers and artists in the 1950s, known for their rejection of conventional society, exploration of spirituality, and promotion of sexual liberation and experimentation.

Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944

A landmark piece of legislation that provided various benefits to returning World War II veterans, including low-interest home loans, unemployment compensation, and access to education, significantly contributing to the post-war economic expansion.

Sunbelt

A region in the southern United States that experienced significant population growth after World War II, characterized by increased economic development, especially in industries such as technology and defense.

Shelley vs Kraemer

A landmark Supreme Court case from 1948 that held that racially restrictive covenants in housing were unenforceable in court, helping to promote racial integration in neighborhoods.

Miles Davis

An influential American jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader, known for his innovative contributions to jazz music, particularly in the genres of bebop, cool jazz, and jazz fusion.

Billy Graham

An American Christian evangelist and prominent religious figure who became well-known for his large-scale revival meetings and television programs, greatly influencing modern evangelical Christianity.

Dr Benjamin Spock

A pediatrician and author whose book "The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care" revolutionized child-rearing practices in the mid-20th century, emphasizing a nurturing approach.