What significant movements began to take shape in the 1960s?

The 1960s were a pivotal decade in American history, marked by profound social and political change. The anti-war movement emerged as a response to the Vietnam War, with many Americans, particularly younger individuals and college students, actively protesting against U.S. involvement in the conflict. Demonstrations, marches, and teach-ins became common as activists sought to raise awareness and advocate for peace.

Simultaneously, the civil rights movement gained significant momentum during this time. African Americans and their allies fought against systemic racism and segregation, seeking equality under the law and better social conditions. Landmark events, such as the March on Washington and the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, highlighted the urgency of these struggles and the desire for justice and equity.

While economic expansion and technological advancements were ongoing aspects of American life, they did not define the cultural and political landscape of the 1960s in the same way that the anti-war and civil rights movements did. Conformity and suburbia were more characteristic of the 1950s, reflecting a desire for stability post-World War II, while isolationism and conservatism did not gain prominence until later decades. The movements of the 1960