The 1940s were dominated by the war.
World War Two began in 1939, soon exploding into a global conflict that would claim the lives of over 2.5% of the world's population. During treacherous war conditions, both those who experienced the war first hand, and those remaining on the home front were forever altered by the devastating effects of war. The drastic shift of mood in the general population permeated every aspect of society-- especially entertainment.
The 1950s were dominated by conformity, and eagerness for peace.
After the devastation of World War Two, peace and entertainment became an area of extreme importance in society. After the fear that any day could be the end, people in general did not want to risk their lives on a daily basis. People placed heavy importance on the family unit and "enjoying the little things in life." Entertainment revolutionized; with the birth of television and the "golden age" of musical theatre, a new era of drama had begun.