One of the megamyths that most infuriate me is this persistent longing for the "idyllic" 50s. You know, Bobbie Socks, poodle skirts, two strawed milkshakes, and Elvis. We are told, that it was perfect. No crime, good economy, American values at work.
For a time, I bought into that. As a kid it was all I was ever taught. I was not taught that African Americans were barred from voting, in fact, even eating at certain restaurants. When I read about it in encyclopedias, and asked my teachers, they shrugged it of as rare, and only in certain areas.
I was not taught that women had scarcely few rights and opportunities. When I would bring this up, I was told how much better things were when men were men and women were women, and-"knew their place."
Now being educated, I know better. Being liberal, I think more broadly. But nothing could prepare me for what I just saw a few minutes ago, so without further adieu, I bring you the wisdom of Brooklyn men, circa 1950s, courtesy of the New York Mirror and @politicalgrrls and, the Department of "You Have To Be Fucking Kidding Me."
Frank Desiderio, Brooklyn barber-"Yes, when they deserve it. As a barber I've got a lot of faith in the hairbrush. I think there are certain cases when it is advisable."
Teddy Gallel-"You bet. It teaches them who's boss."
William Davis, Brooklyn toy factory owner-"Yes, most of them have it coming to them anyway. If they don't it will remind them how well off they are."
This is from the U.S. The 50s. Some from the "Greatest Generation." That term in and of itself is another one of those all encompassing labels that is not so cut and dried. Between the subjugation of African American men at sea during war, the rampant racism and sexism prevalent throughout the era, and the persistent need to fight something or someone, Tom Brokaw's love letter needs just a bit more nuance.
That said, the contributions they made were large, and appreciated. Men like my Grandfather really are a big reason we are free, though I can not imagine, nor did I ever hear him utter statements like this. I think it just goes to show that when you paint with a broad brush, you tend to lack diversity in color.
Literally, and figuratively.
Just a little something for those waking up complaining we have made no progress.