Politics/Gov
Which political party was big during this time?
A more conservative, republican party began to gain traction during this time
What was the economy like during this time period?
The economy fell into a deep recession during the early 1980s but over time growth started to increase but by the end of the decade it started to steadily decrease again.
What popular game was invented this time?
Game boy
Who were the big performers during this time?
Big performers during this time were Micheal Jackson, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen.
How many major world events were going on at this time?
Several major world events were unfolding in 1980. ones include the Iran hostage crisis, the eruption of Mount St. Helens, and the assassination of John Lennon.
What “walls” were broken down during this time?
The Berlin Wall in Germany was finally demolished, signaling the fall of communism in that area.
Was there high or low unemployment
The unemployment rates were high in the early 1980s, reaching a high of 10.8% but in later years it decreased to 6% which is still high compared to other decades.
What social events were popular at this time?
Music videos and clock buster movies
What movies and TV shows were popular?
Popular movies and TV shows include The Simpsons and Ghostbusters.
What was our role?
The US experienced a shift in political and economic conditions due to Ronald Reagan's presidency.
How did inflation change?
Inflation was very high at the beginning of Reagan's presidency and began to slowly go down due to his tax cuts.
Did people have money to “play” with?
When unemployment rates were high in the early 1980s people had less money to spend and later on more people got jobs and were able to have more freedom.
What did people do for fun?
Arcades, Puzzles, and Outdoor Activities
What kind of music was popular or unique to this time?
The 1980s had lots of popular music including rock, pop, and hair metal.
Were we in good relations with the rest of the world?
No, our relations with the rest of the world were not good at this time.
What was Ronald Reagan trying to achieve during his presidency?
Tax cuts, increased military spending, and his end goal being to revive the economy.
Were there any major events that affected the economy?
Events like the recession and the 1987 stock market crash.
What were some gadgets everyone wanted during this time?
Boombox, Gameboy, and Walkman
What did people do for fun during this time?
In the 1980s, people enjoyed a lots of entertainment, including spending time outdoors, listening to music on tapes, and going to the movies.
How was the US getting along with other countries?
The us soviet Union was characterized by high tension and escalating arms race, with tensions easing towards the end of the decade.
What influenced the cold war to end during this time?
The Cold War ended after the communist Russian government fell apart under Mikhail Gorbachev, revolts in Eastern Europe, and Ronald Reagan's new policies.
How many produce jobs did industries lose during this time?
1.4 million jobs were lost during this unemployment.
What did people wear for their clothing and hair?
Bright electric styles, neon colors, textured and volume hair.
What sports were popular during this time?
In 1980s the sports that were most popular were baseball, basketball, and football.
What was happening to the other world around this time?
Huge global shifts, including wars, social concerns, and political transitions.