American Suburbia

Watch American Suburbia

  • 1969
  • 4 Seasons

American Suburbia is a classic television series from the 1950s that takes a deep look into suburban American life during this time period. Produced by A2ZCDS, this show brings the post-World War II culture and lifestyle to the forefront, highlighting how families adjusted to the new way of life as they moved away from the city and into suburbia.

The show focuses on the Cartwright family, who live in a typical suburban neighborhood in California. The episodes revolve around the family's daily routine, including experiences at school and work, their social life, and interactions with their neighbors. The show depicts the various nuances of suburban life, from the dream of owning a house with a white picket fence to the reality of juggling family life and responsibilities.

At the center of the show is patriarch George, a hard-working insurance executive who is always on the go. His wife, Phyllis, is a stay-at-home mom, who manages the household and is an active member of the community, volunteering and participating in local events. Together, they have three children - Betty, David, and Tommy.

Betty, the eldest sibling, is portrayed as the quintessential teenager, always trying to navigate the struggles of teenage life. She is the most vocal about her dissatisfaction with suburban life, often rebelling against her parents' expectations and engaging in risky behavior. David, the middle child, is shown as the smart and responsible one, who is often burdened with the expectations his parents have for him. Tommy, the youngest child, is the curious and energetic one, always getting into mischief.

Throughout the series, the Cartwright family's interactions with their neighbors provide insight into the broader themes of suburban life during this time period. Characters like Mr. Johnson, the grumpiest neighbor on the block, and Mrs. Wilson, the one who always has the latest gossip, represent different attitudes towards suburban life. The show also tackles issues such as racial discrimination, political events, and changing cultural norms, providing a more nuanced portrayal of life during this time period.

One of the unique features of American Suburbia is the depiction of the evolving role of women in the 1950s. Phyllis, the mother, goes beyond the conventional housewife stereotype, as she is shown engaging in community activities and volunteering for charitable causes. Betty's rebellious nature challenges the gender norms of the time, as she pushes against the expectations of what a young woman's role should be.

Another standout feature of American Suburbia is the attention paid to the design and aesthetics of 1950s suburban homes. The furniture, decor, and architecture of the Cartwright's home, as well as their neighbors', are meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the era. This attention to detail helps to transport viewers back in time, providing an immersive viewing experience.

In conclusion, American Suburbia is a show that captures the essence of suburban life in the 1950s. With its relatable characters, timeless themes, and attention to detail, the series provides a unique window into this era of American history.

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Seasons
Community Growth: Crisis and Challenge
6. Community Growth: Crisis and Challenge
 
Home builders decry unplanned suburban sprawl, 1950s-style. Sponsor: Urban Land Institute, National Association of Home Builders. Year: 1959. Length: 00:16:01. Audio: Mono. Color.
The Dynamic American City
5. The Dynamic American City
 
Advocates urban redevelopment and renewal, 1950s-style. Supports many planning strategies which are criticized today: the destruction of "blighted" neighborhoods in the name of progress, autocentric planning and construction, and suburban sprawl. Producer: Baskaw (Frederick J). Sponsor: Chamber of Commerce of the United States.
New Neighbor
4. New Neighbor
 
Building a steel mill from scratch and a city for its workers (Levittown, Pa.). Producer: Jam Handy Organization. Sponsor: U.S. Steel Co. Year: 1953. Length: 00:24:51. Audio: Mono. Color: BLACK & WHITE.
Cities How They Grow
3. Cities How They Grow
 
A study of our increasing urban population. Departing from the usual statistics and the sociological problems which are a result of the cities' growth, we learn that by observing what the workers of the city do, we can find out why the city grew. Producer: Encyclopaedia Britannica Films. Length: 00:09:08. Audio: Mono. Color: BLACK & WHITE.
For the Living
2. For the Living
 
Improvement of living conditions in 1940s New York City through the construction of public housing. Though ultimately a plug for the New York City Housing Authority, this film begins as a "story about a city -- this city." Producer: Clifford Evans. Sponsor: New York City Housing Authority. Year: 1949. Length: 00:21:09. Audio: Mono. Color: BLACK & WHITE.
The City
1. The City
 
A pioneering short documentary film from 1939 that contrasts the problems of the contemporary urban environment with the superior social and physical conditions that can be provided in a planned community. Producer: American Documentary Films, Inc. Sponsor: American Institute of Planners, through Civic Films, Inc.
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