1. In 1976, America celebrated its 200th birthday. Why was the Bicentennial celebration so important to America? Why was it so necessary? 2. Why was America’s prestige, nationally and internationally, at an all-time low? 3. The 1970s is known as the "me" decade. What prompted the individuality and self-absorption that earned the decade this tittle? 4. In 1976, Georgia governor and peanut farmer Jimmy Carter became president of the United States. What was the appeal of this unlikely presidential candidate? 5. The 1970s were a time of political apathy. What caused this political apathy and malaise? Why had the American voters lost confidence in their government and leaders?

Explanation:

1. America was going through troubled times, there were plenty scandals and the approval rate of the President was dropping, the bicentennial celebration was a day all Americans had to come together and try to become better. The celebration was a way for Americans to love their country again.

2. America's prestige had been tarnished during the Vietnam war. The country experienced high inflation, unemployment, and the economy was in a great recession

3 The me decade was characterized by kids who turned from activists and passionate people to engaging in drugs, sex, music and partying. Youths were no longer conservative, and they started to become who they truly wanted to be.

4. Americans no longer had faith or trust in their country. They were looking for somebody who could possibly bring change. Carter represented old American values as he was a blue collar worker and of the Christian faith.

5. Political apathy and malaise was due to several reasons. There had been plenty scandals, Pentagon Papers, Teapot Dome, Watergate, etc. Americans lost trust in their Presidents, and in all their government heads. They felt that these people had let America down.