Chapter 27

Chapter Overview: Uncivil Wars: Liberal Crisis and Conservative Rebirth (1961-1972)

Liberalism at High Tide

• John F. Kennedy’s Promise: Inspired a new generation to engage in civil rights and government reform.

• Lyndon B. Johnson and the Great Society: Pursued racial equality and social welfare programs.

• Rebirth of the Women's Movement: Seemed to mirror civil rights activism, growing frustrations over gender inequalities.

Escalation of the Vietnam War

• War Begins Under Johnson: Transitioned from advisory to combative role in Vietnam.

• Public Sentiment: Initial support shifted as war casualties increased.

The Student Movement and Protests

• Days of Rage (1968-1972): Growing discontent fueled protests at home leading to significant political clashes.

• Antiwar Movement: Increased activism based on opposition to Vietnam; highlighted public dissatisfaction with government policies.

The Impact on Society

• Political Turbulence: Assassinations of leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy heightened tensions.

• Emerging Nationalism: In the African American and Chicano communities, movements began articulating demands distinct from traditional liberal agendas.

Nixon and the Silent Majority

• Emergence of Conservative Politics: Nixon appealed to the 'silent majority,' focusing on traditional values amidst changes brought by liberal reforms.

• Vietnamization Policy: Shifted military engagement emphasis from American troops to South Vietnamese forces.

• Response to Protests: Détente strategies while maintaining focus on law and order policies.

The Women's Rights and Liberation Movements

• Second Wave Feminism: Focused on issues like reproductive rights and workplace equality.

• Intersection with Civil Rights: Black and Chicana feminisms highlighted unique struggles within the broader feminist movement.

Key Events and Legislations (1961-1972)

• Civil Rights Act (1964): Banned discrimination based on race and gender.

• Medicare and Medicaid (1965): Health care programs for the elderly and low-income individuals.

• Voting Rights Act (1965): Aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting.

• Stonewall Riots (1969): Marked a significant turning point for the LGBT rights movement.

1968 Presidential Election

• Democratic Disarray: Following riots and responses to social movements, the election was a reflection of deep national divisions.

• Nixon’s Victory: Signaled a conservative shift in American politics.

Conclusion

• Fractured New Deal Coalition: The pressures from the Vietnam War, civil rights, and cultural conflicts ultimately destabilized the Democratic Party’s unity and opened pathways for conservative resurgence.