Consumerism and the American Dream.

America emerged from World War II as the dominant world power player — not only militarily but economically as well. Ravaged by war, European industry was at a standstill, and the Continent was open to receive Americanmade products. At home pent-up consumer demand — caused by government-sponsored rationing during the world war and the Korean War — exploded, and American plants ran at full capacity to provide their customers with automobiles, television sets, household appliances — all the amenities of an American way of life that was becoming increasingly defined by the tastes of a burgeoning middle class with more money to spend. America was evolving into a consumer-oriented society during the 1950s, and the pursuit of modern goods and appliances that made everyday life easier became identified with the American Dream. In 1959, while viewing an American kitchen...