Posted: September 18th, 2017

Reform and Reaction

1. John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Richard M. Nixon held office during one of the most tumultuous eras in American history. Looking first at foreign policy, discuss the assumptions that Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon held and how they put those assumptions into practice – be sure to give special attention to Soviet-American relations and the Vietnam War. To what extent did Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon continue the policies established by Truman and Eisenhower?

   Now look at the domestic policies of Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon. Discuss the reform programs of Kennedy and Johnson, the extent of their successes, and the degree to which Nixon tried to constrain the liberal agenda, if indeed there was one. Be sure to give attention to the continuing civil rights movement, the rise of the counterculture, and the conservative reaction that developed. And in your analysis, discuss the role of the baby boom generation.

2. Some historians have argued that we can’t understand the 20th century without understanding the impact of films. Though often dismissed as pure entertainment, a throwaway medium, the movies have in fact altered, reflected, and shaped our lives. This is especially true of the films produced since the end of World War II in 1945. Having read Celluloid Mirrors, and viewed various films, discuss how they have reflected the themes of the second half of the 20th century. How might historians use films to enhance their knowledge and understanding of an era such as this one?
3. Identify and give the significance of the following:a. Watergate
   b. Betty Friedan
   c. Cesar Chavez
   d. Haight-Ashbury
   e. The Warren Court