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A New America? 1989-
Overview
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As the 1980s drew to a close, much that had been certain in American life, namely the Cold War, was over. The United States was the only super power in the world and instead of celebration and relaxation, America and Americans were uncertain. Ambivalence and reluctance soon complemented uncertainty. What were the nation’s obligations and needs in light of such a momentous change? The 1990s brought about economic changes. What is called the "postindustrial" economy was led by the service sector, computer companies, and high-technology firms. An economic boom of the 1990s was transforming as the decade and century came to a close. The Reagan Revolution failed to bring about permanent conservative change. The 1990s brought political moderation and uncertainty. George Bush failed to win re election but Bill Clinton failed to reshape American politics. No party or philosophy seemed to mold politics and government at the end of the century. In the 1990s Americans still quarreled over the rights of African Americans, women, and homosexuals. Because of immigration in the 1970s and 1980s, the nation became more ethnically diverse and if any topic dominated the public agenda it was diversity.
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