Question

Question

How did the automobile influence the rise of new business in the 1950s?

Answer Key:

More people lived in the suburbs and had cars to drive to restaurants. The highway system expanded tremendously in the 1950s and many services, including restaurants and motels, chose to locate right off the highway.

Award 1 point for mentioning the influence of the suburbs and 1 point for mentioning the influence of the highway system, for a maximum of 2 points.

Answer 1

The automobile had a significant influence on the rise of new businesses in the 1950s in several ways. First, as more people moved to the suburbs, they needed affordable and convenient transportation options, which allowed them to travel to restaurants, shopping centers, and other services. This demand led to the establishment of numerous dining and retail businesses catering to suburban families.

Additionally, the expansion of the highway system during this decade played a crucial role in shaping business locations. Many businesses, particularly restaurants and motels, strategically positioned themselves near major highways to attract customers who were traveling for leisure or commuting. This created a boom in roadside services and the fast food industry, as people increasingly relied on their cars for travel and sought convenient dining options on the go.

In summary, the automobile's influence in the 1950s fostered the growth of new businesses by promoting suburban living and facilitating the increased establishment of services along expanded highways.