1960s: Race riots consumed major American cities such as Los Angeles, Detroit, and Newark as African Americans protested economic and political exploitation and police harassment.

Today: Most Americans see racial conflict and division as major social issues, though the number of violent protests has considerably diminished.

1960s: Television quiz shows such as Play Your Hunch, Concentration, Truth or Consequences, and The Face is Familiar appeal to working-and middle-class American fantasies of easy riches.

Today: Television quiz shows such as Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, The Weakest Link, and The Chair appeal to working-and middleclass American fantasies of easy riches.

1960s: The minimum wage for Americans is $1.00.

Today: The minimum wage for Americans in 2002 is $5.15.