A post-World War II literary and cultural movement that rejected conventional societal values and materialism. It championed non-conformity, spontaneity, and the exploration of alternative lifestyles. An example of its influence can be seen in the works of Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and William S. Burroughs, whose writings reflected a disillusionment with mainstream American culture.
Understanding this movement is crucial for students of American history, as it represents a significant challenge to the prevailing social and political norms of the 1950s. Its emphasis on individual expression and rejection of conformity helped pave the way for the counterculture movements of the 1960s. Furthermore, studying this group provides insight into the anxieties and disillusionment felt by some Americans in the aftermath of the war, offering a nuanced perspective on the period.
