1. Topic: Social Transformations in the United States A period of post-war prosperity allowed the United States to undergo fundamental social change. Adding to this change was an emphasis on scientific inquiry, the shift from an industrial to a technological/service economy, the impact of mass media, the phenomenon of suburban and Sun Belt migrations, and the expansion of civil rights.

2. Content Statement: Political debates focused on the extend of the role of government in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare and national security. Expectations for Learning: Explain why the government’s role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare and national security became the topic of political debates between 1945 and 1994.

3. Content Elaboration: The United States experienced an era of unprecedented prosperity and economic growth following WWII. Contributing to this prosperity was public demand for goods and services. The demand for housing and automobile ownership spurred the growth of suburbs. Economic opportunities in defense plants and high-tech industries led to the growth of the Sunbelt. Content Elaboration: Postwar prosperity produced some other epic changes (e.g., baby boom, increased consumerism, increased mobility via automobiles, pop culture, franchising, and longer lifespans.

4.  What is the difference between a liberal and a conservative?  Conservative vs. Liberal website Conservative vs. Liberal website Conservative vs. Liberal website  Our objectives:  1. Understand the difference between liberals and conservatives (and Democrats and Republicans!)  2. Compare and contrast the different viewpoints on major topics  Economy  Environment  Social welfare  National defense  3. Debate one of the major topics as a liberal or a conservative