Question

The year 1968 was the most turbulent year of the 1960s, both at home and abroad. Within the context of 1968, what was happening in the civil rights and other social revolutions? How were changes in American society connected to what was happening in the world?

Answer 1

1968 was one of the most turbulent years in America, many events happened in society and politics. During this period, America was at war in Vietnam but society’s opinion about the war shifted. This caused a crisis on the Democratic party because President Johnson lost approval which led to a dispute between Hubert Humphrey and Robert Kennedy.

People demanded Civil Rights and the end of the limitations imposed by the Black Codes. African Americans wanted the right to vote and to live an equal life at the same time society demanded the end of the Vietnam War.  When Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy were assassinated, riots spread around America.

These riots and protests against the Vietnam War and looking for Civil Rights were a reflection of political change around the world. The world faced a moment of social conflicts filled with popular rebellions. The main targets were the military and bureaucratic elites that invested in political repression. The Hippie movement also preached peace and love and another view of the world.