Semester
Fall
Date of Graduation
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
College
Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
Department
History
Committee Chair
Elizabeth Fones-Wolf.
Committee Co-Chair
Kenneth Fones-Wolf
Committee Member
Steve Zdatny
Abstract
By the mid-1970s long hair worn by much of the American youth evoked little comment and indeed was considered fashionable. But during much of the previous two decades male hair length was a contentious issue that divided the generations. The struggle over hair in many ways epitomized the sixties generation's challenge to authority and their claim to individual rights. During the era, the meaning of long hair changed dramatically from what it was during the fifties. It began as a symbol of youth culture rebellion linked to music. By the latter part of the sixties, however, it became associated with a political and social critique of American society. Quickly, hair length, like bell bottoms and other symbols of youth rebellion became commercialized and meaningless. This paper focuses on the conflict over long hair at educational institutions, in the workplace, including both the military and the traditional workplace, and within popular culture. Finally, a short look at its effect on the barbering industry.
Recommended Citation
Herrick, Andrew Robert, "A hairy predicament: The problem with long hair in the 1960s and 1970s" (2006). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 872.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/872