The greatest thing that the nation had to do was get through the Great Depression. The Depression was the thing that was hurting everyone.
Actually the real answer is the second and first world war pouring money into the us economy for output. If that is not an option it would be the invention of the steam engine and the 1800's locomotive industry.
They influenced American Culture by questioning the existing state of affairs and contributing to the rise of the Civil Rights Movement.
<em>The Beat Generation</em> was a new cultural and literary movement in the 1950's. They were behind the concept of non-conformity, questioning the existing values and beliefs in America. They were against materialism, a society that relies heavily on consumerism and materialistic gadgets. They advocated sexual freedom, social equality ( gender and racial ,) and they were against wars. The spiritual quest during one's life was of great importance to them.
<em>Rock and roll</em> impacted American culture by breaking down racial barriers. Not only because of some black artists but also because of both races listening to the same type of music. The music became the voice of the young, united against the war and questioning racial inequality, supporting free thinking and the freedom of expression.
