The American Dream: reality and illusion, 1945–1980

The American Dream, the belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination, was a central ideology in post-war America. Between 1945 and 1980, this dream was both realised and challenged by profound social, economic, and political changes. This topic explores how the dream evolved from the post-war boom and suburban prosperity to the disillusionment of the Vietnam War, Watergate, and economic stagnation. Students must understand that the American Dream was not a static concept but a contested ideal, experienced differently by various groups based on race, class, and gender.

The period begins with the 'Golden Age' of American capitalism (1945-1960s), where rising living standards, the GI Bill, and mass consumerism seemed to validate the dream. However, this prosperity masked deep inequalities, particularly for African Americans and other minorities, leading to the Civil Rights Movement. The 1960s and 1970s saw the dream challenged by the Vietnam War, the counterculture, and the Watergate scandal, which eroded trust in government. Economic crises, such as the 1973 oil shock and stagflation, further undermined the belief in ever-increasing prosperity. By 1980, the American Dream had become a source of debate, with some arguing it was an illusion for many.

This topic is crucial for AQA A-Level History as it examines the tension between ideology and reality. It connects to broader themes of social change, political power, and economic cycles. Students should analyse how the American Dream was used by politicians to justify policies, and how it was critiqued by social movements. Understanding this period helps explain contemporary debates about inequality and the 'American Dream' in modern America.