http://americasbesthistory.com/abhtimeline1950.

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June 25, 1950 - The Korean War begins its three year conflict when troops of North Korea, backed with
Soviet weaponry, invade South Korea. This act leads to U.S. involvement when two days later, the
United States Air Force and Navy are ordered by President Truman to the peninsula. On June 30, ground
forces and air strikes are approved against North Korea.

July 27, 1953 - Fighting ceases in the Korean War. North Korea, South Korea, the United States, and the
Republic of China sign an armistice agreement.

October 30, 1953 - The Cold War continues in earnest when President Dwight D. Eisenhower approves a
top secret document stating that the U.S. nuclear arsenal must be expanded to combat the communist
threat around the world.

December 30, 1953 - The first color televisions go on sale.

May 31, 1955 - The Supreme Court of the United States orders that all public schools be integrated with
deliberate speed.

December 1, 1955 - Rosa Parks, an African American seamstress, refuses to give up her seat on the bus
to a white man, prompting a boycott that would lead to the declaration that bus segregation laws were
unconstitutional by a federal court.

March 12, 1956 - Congressmen from Southern states call for massive resistance, the Southern
Manifesto, to the Supreme Court ruling on desegregation.

June 29, 1956 - Interstate highway system begins with the signing of the Federal-Aid Highway Act.

September 25, 1956 - The first transatlantic telephone cable begins operation.

April 29, 1957 - U.S. Congress approves the first civil rights bill since reconstruction with additional
protection of voting rights.

December 6, 1957 - The first attempt by the United States to launch a satellite into space fails when it
explodes on the launchpad.

January 3, 1959 - Alaska is admitted to the United States as the 49th state to be followed on August 21
by Hawaii.

January 7, 1959 - The United States recognizes the new Cuban government under rebel leader Fidel
Castro. Castro becomes the Premier of Cuba on February 16.

The years were also part of the 1946-1964 time period known as the "postwar era" and "baby boom
era." Defining themes of the 1950s include the rise of rock 'n' roll music, the increased move of
families to the suburbs, the civil rights movement and the beginning of the cold war.