That's Life (1960s Pop Culture)

APUSH into the Past

The mid-twentieth century was a colossal turning point in culture, especially in the younger generations. The shift from the conservative, traditional values of the 1950s to the rebellious, obscene actions of the 1970s mingled together in the 60s. There was tensions between age divisions and altogether a stark contrast between values. Music showed the emergence of rock n' roll, which challenged the upbeat and peppy pop of the 50s. Television and celebrities like Marilyn Monroe were more displayed and comedy became the popular genre in main media. Even artistic movements changed; Andy Warhol's pop art became one of the famous works in the modern art category. Books were an important staple, as well:To Kill a Mockingbird's themes of racism opened up conversations in the Civil Rights Movement, and In Cold Blood spoke of criminal deviance and sparked the crime genre in pop culture. The Vietnam War included college students rallying around this point to try and save their friends and family stationed in a needless war against communism. Pop culture is always a fascinating and broad topic for any decade, as it shows the common ideals and interests of the people at the time. But the 60s particularly reflects the movements that occurred at the time, like Civil Rights, Anti-War, and Youth Revolution. Barbara Harter grew up in central Pennsylvania and has continued to raise a family there for three generations. She was born in 1945 and went to Bishop McDevitt Catholic School, where she graduated in '63. Following schooling, Mrs. Harter balanced various secretarial jobs and volunteer work in the mental health and pediatric centers at Harrisburg Hospital. She married my grandfather, Douglas, in 1969. She raised three children and has six grandchildren and one granddog. She currently loves reading, beach vacations, and of course, her loving family.