Consumerism in the 1950s

The end of the war brought about a huge spike in consumerism in America.

During the 50s, conspicuous consumption came back in full force. The GI bill allowed for returning soldiers to buy houses at discount mortgages and new Levittown developments further drove down the prices. A rise in the middle class allowed for the average American family to participate in consumer culture. Advertisements played to many peoples need for conformity, telling people that all their neighbors owned whatever product they were selling.

Ads became very family oriented as a result of the baby boom. Consumer products adopted a much more wholesome image as well.