USA in the 1960's

To understand the young adult novel The Wave written by Morton Rhue, it is important to first take into consideration the late 1960s in the U.S. since this is the location of the plot. This period was characterized by strong countercultures, which manifested themselves in the protests against the Vietnam War and against racial discrimination. The student movements, the Woodstock Festival, and the emerging “hippie” culture shaped the events of that time, and the slogan “make love, not war” became the guiding principle of an entire generation.

The main focus was on political and social goals: the aim was to establish a democratization of society and education, as well as to achieve a more peaceful, tolerant world. Alternative ways of life and educational ideals were tried out, many young peopl...