The Affluent Society, 1951–1964 key terms

Affluence

A state of having a great deal of money; wealth, which characterized British society in the 1950s and early 1960s.

Consumerism

The preoccupation of society with the acquisition of goods and services, which became prominent in Britain during the affluent society.

Affluent Society

A term used to describe the economic prosperity and consumer culture in Britain during the 1950s and early 1960s.

Economic Growth

An increase in the production of goods and services in an economy over a period of time, often measured by GDP.

Racial Violence

Acts of violence motivated by racial prejudice, which became more visible in Britain during the 1950s.

Establishment

The dominant social, political, and economic institutions in Britain, often associated with traditional power structures.

Nuclear Deterrent

A military strategy that relies on the threat of nuclear retaliation to deter adversaries from attacking.

Korean War

A conflict from 1950 to 1953 between North Korea (with support from China and the USSR) and South Korea (supported by the USA and other Western nations), which had significant implications for Cold War dynamics.