Describe the progression of courting, calling, and dating throughout the 20th century. How was this progression influenced by the social and political trends of the time?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Varies. Answers should begin with a discussion about the shift from courting (among the middle and upper classes) and dating (among the working classes) to "calling" in the early 20th century. This shift was accompanied by the "first sexual revolution" in which the opportunity for sexual intimacy increased. By the mid-20th century, "calling" transitioned into "going steady" and more sexual intimacy was expected than before. The second sexual revolution of the 1960s made the birth control pill more common and acceptable, and as a result young people began engaging in sexual intimacy at higher rates. During the 1970s a gay movement also arose that demanded sexual freedom for themselves as well as heterosexuals. Many social changes contributed to the sexual revolution of the last four decades of the 20th century including an intensified interest in political activity on behalf of the baby boomers who were coming of age, women's growing autonomy and the enhanced educational opportunities that were available to women.