A real problem with conservatives is that they already know history without ever learning history. TB, the headlines of the times are not an accurate reflection of what was happening. There are things which are not on the front pages which were very real, there are things you were taught which were less real, and to cling to those notions is pure childish.

There really isn't the time to bring you up to speed. A couple of comments. Eisenhowers "military-industrial complex" he warned us about was trying to make the Russian threat seem viable, so as to sell and purchase more weapons.

Russia was in a defensive mode, having been invaded and not having the resources or inclination for another war.

Vietnam was an optional situation. In 1960 no one in their right mind would predict the "complex" could have sold the US on that debacle.

And, basically, for your average citizen, the American dream was alive. As opposed to now. You're wrong, TB, it was a Golden Age for most.