As the baby boomer generation became young adults, their impact on the culture was profound; even scary, to some older Americans. The 50s generation was all about conforming to norms. The communist threat and the McCarthy movement terrified anyone who might have different ideas. No one wanted to be branded as a 'commie sympathizer'. But corporate interests were also terrified that these kids might not become the avid smokers and drinkers that their parents were. Communities even made ordinances to stymie the behavior of the young generation. Dress codes, decency laws, even music was subjected to censorship. But the most strident effort was to prohibit marijuana consumption. Even industrial hemp was banned, lest someone blend other cannabis strains into the crops. |
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