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1960s

Definition

The 1960s was a decade marked by cultural, political, and social change across the globe. In Europe, it was characterized by the rise of youth culture, protests against established authority (such as student protests), and significant advancements in technology.

Analogy

Think of the 1960s like a rebellious teenager. Just as teenagers often question authority and seek to establish their own identity, so too did society during this time period. It was a time of questioning norms, pushing boundaries, and seeking new ways of thinking.

Related terms

Cold War: A period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union with its satellite states (the Eastern Bloc), and the United States with its allies (the Western Bloc) after World War II.

Decolonization: The process by which colonies became independent from their colonial rulers. This process accelerated during the 1960s as many African countries gained independence.

Space Race: The competition between nations regarding achievements in space exploration. During the 1960s, both USA and USSR made significant strides in this area.