The 1950s Decade in Photos: The American Decade

Nostalgic photographs capture how America reached the peak of its power in the 1950s. The United States became a world leader in business, technology, and health care. The nation experienced a baby boom. Yet, not all was well. U.S. troops fought to a deadlock in Korea. The Soviet Union took an early lead in the Space Race. Americans worried about the presence of Soviet spies. Meanwhile, a young Elvis Presley helped introduce the world to rock and roll. Rosa Parks struck a blow against racial segregation. By refusing to give up her bus seat, she spurred the civil rights movement. Read how it all happened in the 1950s, the American decade.