The book shows how American society changed in 1965 due to political polarization and cultural change. James Patterson, its author, explains how Vietnam War had an impact on American citizens. Young soldiers were killed in foreign country. Families who lost their loved ones were totally opposed to the war. Towards 1965, American citizens were optimistic that Lyndon Johnson would bring reforms. However, that was not the case. Instead, political polarization escalated. Police attacked demonstrators, particularly people of color. Demonstrators retaliated by looting and torching public and private properties.
Prior to 1965, civil rights activist, political liberators, and citizens in general were hopeful that the U.S would be more unified and progressive than ever. During this time, a transformation was witnessed in American society and culture. In 1965, Johnson signed Voting Rights Act. Barely a week, violence erupted in the Watts. When police assaulted black protestors in Selma, Alabama, African-American leaders started losing faith in government. Besides, America indulged itself in Vietnam War. Young persons without experience were recruited to join military. The unfolding events left the country divided. Conservatism called the shots and liberators started abandoning Johnson.
Patterson shows how these events radically reshaped the country. In 1965, Americans witnessed record economic prosperity, legislators enacted reforms that covered voting rights, education, healthcare, employment, and immigration. Similarly, racial violence was experienced in the southern part of the country. Furthermore, demonstration intensified due to the military escalation in Vietnam. All these events make Patterson believe that 1965 is the year America underwent political and cultural transformation.
