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1946 Context for All My Sons - Arthur Miller
A document outlining the historical, social and political context from 1946, the year that 'All My Sons' by Arthur Miller was set.
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1946 All My Sons Publish Date - FactfileSummer Work - English
Technology
One of the most monumental breakthroughs in technology in this year was The ENIAC,
The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer. Revealed at the University of
Pennsylvania, The ENIAC was the first programmable digital computer, fulfilling its
purpose to aid the US Government during World War Two. To complete, it cost
$400,000 and took up a thirty by fifty foot room. J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchley,
the creators, began the project in 1943, until the computer ran its first project working
on calculations related to hydrogen bomb construction.
Another modern invention appearing in 1946 was the microwave oven. Still used today,
Percy L Spencer accidentally created the technology when a chocolate bar melted in his
pocket after being exposed to an active radar set. Spencer wasn’t the first to notice the
phenomenon, but was the first to initiate response to it experimenting with different
foodstuffs. The first true microwave he invented was done so by attaching a high-
density electromagnetic field generator to an enclosed metal box. This allowed for safer,
more controlled experimentation with food.
One breakthrough that we perceive as a modern concept is in-car telephones. Now
assistant operated and hands-free, we can talk to anyone from anywhere using the
power of voice. Back in 1946 they had already cottoned on to the popularity of new and
exciting technology, hence the birth of car phones. Named ‘radio phones’ by Motorola,
these 80lb phones were effectively two-way radios that could be connected to landlines.
They had to be installed by a professional and the systems were limited to a few calls at
any one time, leaving consumers frustrated with long waits. The technology followed
another of Motorola’s inventions in 1940: the Handie-Talkie. The portable two-way
radio paved the way for landline connected car phones, growing more popular by the
decade.
Popular Culture
Bikinis go on sale on July 5th in Paris thanks to French designer Louis Reard. The risque
two-piece caused scandal when it was revealed and was even banned in certain
locations, despite still growing in popularity. The bikini, deriving its name from atomic
testing at Bikini Atoll, reached the US in the 60s, becoming fully socially integrated after
film stars adopted the design.
The film world was taking off, with actors and actresses being idolized and followed
with regards to fashion and behaviour leading to the first film festival taking place in
Cannes. After being postponed as a result of the outbreak of World War Two from 1939,
the film festival was a place for upcoming films to be judged, not the social and
commercial event we think of today. Gaining popularity throughout the years, the film
festival is still regarded as a prestigious event for some of the biggest names in film.
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