Social and cultural developments: rising living standards; the impact of affluence and consumerism; changing social attitudes and behaviour; class and 'the Establishment', the position of women
By the early 1950s, most British people earned more and spent more than ever before. New consumer goods, shifting class attitudes, and changing roles for women transformed everyday life.
Real World
By 1959, one in three British households owned a television — up from virtually none in 1950 — and ITV's launch in 1955 brought commercial advertising into living rooms, visibly shaping a new consumer culture built around aspiration and spending.
Exam Focus
When writing about social change, distinguish between continuity and change — examiners reward candidates who note limits, such as persistent class inequality despite rising affluence.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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