Eisenhower's Domestic Policy

These flashcards cover important terms and concepts related to Eisenhower's domestic policies, social changes in America during the 1950s, and the impacts of consumer culture.

Dynamic Conservatism

Eisenhower's approach of being liberal towards social issues but conservative with fiscal policies.

Domestic Spending

Rose from 31% in 1953 to 49% in 1961

High Poverty

¼ of Americans lived in poverty during 1950s.

Department of Health, Education and Welfare

Created to oversee public health, education, and welfare as part of liberal policies.

Polio vaccine development (1955)

A significant public health advancement achieved during Eisenhower's administration.

Federal Highway Act (1956)

Legislation to construct 41,000 miles of roads, generating millions of jobs.

National Defense Education Act (1958)

Provided federal funding to colleges in response to the launch of Sputnik, emphasizing science and technology education.

GI Bill

Funded education and housing for veterans, creating a better-educated and wealthier workforce.

Baby Boom (1946-1964)

A significant rise in birth rates, leading to 76.4 million babies born and an impact on the economy.

Automobile Culture

A societal shift characterized by increased car ownership, suburban growth, and related businesses.

Levittown

Suburban developments created by the Levitt brothers that offered affordable housing ($8000), 30% of families lived in suburbs by 1960.

Advertising growth (1950-1963)

The advertising industry grew from a $6 billion industry in 1950 to a $13 billion industry by 1963.

Consumer Boom

• GNP rose from 355 billion in 1950 to 487 billion in 1960.

• By 1960 the average family was 30% richer than in 1959.

• Economy grew by 37% in the 1950s

Urbanization and suburbanization effects

Suburban growth led to city decline, creating wealthier suburbs while causing economic challenges in urban areas.