How did television change from the 1950s - 1970s?

Sharri Scalley: In the 1950s Tv programming represented an effort to entertain, and to picture an ideal world. "Father Knows Best", "leave it to Beaver", "My Three Sons". Even the 1960s "Courtship of Eddie's Father" and "Perry Mason" all reflected a "life as it should be" view. But in the 1960s, we began to see differing views. The Twilight Zone used its sci fi motif to make political and social comments on the views and values of the times. Star Trek introduced a multiracial/multispecies crew where in theory at least real responsibility and power were held by non Caucasians. They even threw in the first interracial kiss. Variety shows began utilizing more risque humor than was the standard. (Smothers Brothers) By the 1970s there was no longer an interest in presenting an idyllic view of America. All in the Family, Mash, and others presented us with Americans and America as less than perfect. Social issues like abortion were directly addressed on shows like Maude for t! he first time. For better or worse, television began imitating life a bit more than art....Show more

Charis Deguzman: Well, is this homework? What has your research told you? Better start Googling!

Kristina Brockwell: Television had existed as a technology for quite some time. During this time period, more and more people had TVs. They became popular. Its sorta like, cars existed for a long time, but nobody but the wealthy had them. Or Computers, nobody had a computer until the 90's. People often think that television was invented during this time but that is not true. It just was not a popular technology. It also began to be used more for politics. See Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy....Show more

Arlen Decorte: It evolved to reflect REAL life situations and use of contemporary language.The evolution still continues.

Dwight Siniard: Apart from Color, it was the VTR (video tape) that changed TV. It allowed programs to be recorded and played back as ! needed, and could support post production editing. This was an! advance from Kinescopes, as the film had to be developed, and videotapes could be reused.What viewers saw from that is more pre-recorded scripted TV, rather than live variety shows and tele-theater as TV was since its inception.Developments in solid state electronics made TV systems, both in the studios and transmitter, and as well in the home TV receivers, stabler and easier to maintain.Advancements in microwave and satellite networks made the network more of a thing, and live TV easier....Show more