1955 vs. 1987

Attribute	1955	1987
Popular Music	Rock and Roll	Pop, Rock, Hip Hop
Technology	Television, Radio	Personal Computers, VCRs
Politics	Cold War, Civil Rights Movement	Reaganomics, Iran-Contra Affair
Fashion	Poodle Skirts, Greaser Style	Shoulder Pads, Acid Wash Jeans

Introduction

When comparing the attributes of two different years, such as 1955 and 1987, it is important to consider the various aspects that define each era. From cultural trends to technological advancements, there are many factors that can shape the characteristics of a particular time period. In this article, we will explore the differences between 1955 and 1987 in terms of social, political, and economic attributes.

Social Attributes

In 1955, American society was still largely segregated, with racial discrimination being a prevalent issue. The Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, but racial tensions were high. In contrast, by 1987, significant progress had been made in terms of civil rights, with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 helping to dismantle segregation and promote equality. Additionally, the 1980s saw the rise of the LGBTQ rights movement, with the AIDS crisis bringing attention to issues facing the queer community.

Technological Advancements

1955 was a time of significant technological advancements, with the introduction of the first commercially available color television sets. This innovation revolutionized the entertainment industry and changed the way people consumed media. By 1987, technology had advanced even further, with the introduction of personal computers and the development of the internet. These advancements transformed the way people communicated and accessed information, leading to the digital age we are familiar with today.

Political Landscape

In 1955, the United States was in the midst of the Cold War, with tensions between the US and the Soviet Union running high. The threat of nuclear war loomed large, and the country was gripped by McCarthyism and anti-communist sentiment. By 1987, the Cold War was beginning to thaw, with the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty between the US and the USSR. The political landscape had shifted, with a focus on diplomacy and arms control rather than confrontation.

Economic Factors

In 1955, the US economy was booming, with post-war prosperity leading to a period of economic growth known as the "Golden Age of Capitalism." However, this prosperity was not evenly distributed, with many Americans still living in poverty. By 1987, the economy had experienced ups and downs, with the oil crisis of the 1970s leading to stagflation and economic uncertainty. The Reagan administration implemented supply-side economics, which aimed to stimulate growth through tax cuts and deregulation.

Cultural Trends

In 1955, popular culture was dominated by rock and roll music, with artists like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry leading the way. The Beat Generation was also making waves in literature, with writers like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg challenging traditional norms. By 1987, the music scene had evolved, with the rise of hip hop and electronic dance music. The 1980s were also a time of blockbuster films and iconic fashion trends, with movies like "Back to the Future" and styles like neon colors and shoulder pads defining the era.

Conclusion

Overall, the attributes of 1955 and 1987 reflect the changing times and evolving society of each era. While 1955 was marked by social unrest and technological innovation, 1987 saw progress in civil rights and advancements in communication technology. The political landscape shifted from the tensions of the Cold War to a focus on diplomacy, and the economy experienced both prosperity and challenges. Cultural trends also evolved, reflecting the changing tastes and values of each generation. By examining these attributes, we can gain a better understanding of the differences between these two pivotal years in history.