ABSTRACT

The first half of the twentieth century presented a paradox for human survival. As two world wars and an economic depression brought chaos and devastation, scientific and medical advances were increasing overall life expectancy by stemming the tide of deaths from acute diseases such as influenza, pneumonia, and tuberculosis. After this tumultuous beginning, the second half of the century ushered in renewed hope and new life. Between 1946 and 1964, the United States experienced an unprecedented increase in birth rate (see chap. 1, this volume). The new generation, termed Baby Boomers, was born into a world of relative peace and prosperity. Economic and social stability translated into higher levels of education, improved standards of living, better physical health, and increased life expectancy.