The Intelligence from The Economist Boom! Episode 1: 1968 - Born to be wild
Jul 7, 2024
What drives two unpopular men to the forefront of politics? The baby boomer generation's complex past is key. They faced disillusionment during the Vietnam War, leading to vibrant activism and a shake-up of traditional values. 1968 was a year of turbulence and transformation, marked by MLK's assassination and the rise of radical figures. The cultural impact of films like 'Night of the Living Dead' reflects ongoing societal anxieties. As boomers shape leadership today, their legacy of change continues to unfold.
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Hagel's Wartime Choice
- Chuck Hagel volunteered for Vietnam, declining a safer position in Germany.
- His superiors were surprised by his decision, questioning his motives.
Vallely's Motivation
- Thomas Vallely joined the Marine Corps, influenced by his father's WWII flight jacket.
- He initially believed in the Vietnam War's noble cause but soon became disillusioned.
Shifting Public Opinion
- In 1968, Americans began to distrust their government's narrative about the Vietnam War.
- The Tet Offensive, vividly portrayed on television, played a key role in shifting public opinion.