Question

Despite widespread power and affluence, the 1950s were often described as an "age of anxiety." what were the major sources of anxiety and conflict that stirred beneath the surface of the time? could they have been addressed more effectively by eisenhower and other national leaders? why or why not?

Answer 1

Communism and nuclear war: Many Americans were scared of a nuclear attack by a communist power in particular the USSR. 

"Duck and cover" drills, McCarthy hunts for communists, and nuclear testing all creating anxiety over an attack that may or may not happen. Americans were willing to turn in neighbors to the government in hopes of protecting themselves from spies. After the USSR launched Sputnik, the US became very nervous about a real possibility of nuclear war with the rival super power.