Beneath its bland surface, the 1950s in America saw serious political conflict - a ‘red scare’: a wave of anti-communist hysteria and Cold War hyperbole. In the southern states, social tensions, brought about by racially-divisive practices, erupted into open battles when civil rights protesters challenged segregation, particularly in education and transport. Also, there was an intense form of generational conflict in the 50s as numbers of young people rejected their parents’ values and were drawn to the explosion of ‘rock and roll’ music. The decade that began with the melodic ballads of Doris Day and Frank Sinatra ended with raunchy rock songs by artists like Little Richard and Chuck Berry. Examine these themes and consider how the 50s movements and events helped shape the 60s: an era of fresh leadership and new hope. In the class you are welcome to share readings or experience of the era. Lecture style with structured discussion.