1957: The Year That Launched the American Future

The year 1957 brought about change in the United States as innovation bred limitless possibilities. The launch of the Sputnik satellite sparked fears of Soviet domination of space, which spurred the US into action. The Cold War burned with apocalyptic fever in literature and movies. The brazen criminal machinations of Organized Crime and their tentacle like grip on industry was exposed by the McClellan Committee. Dogged investigators interrogated labor barons with tenacity. Turmoil in the underworld, highlighted by the shooting of Frank Costello and the daring assassination of Albert Anastasia, led to the disastrous Apalachin meeting raided by New York State troopers.

The desire to connect the country smoothly spurred the construction of the Interstate Highway System. The population made a cross-country trip, perhaps in the popular Chevy Bel-Air while listening to the transcendent sound of rock & roll, maybe Elvis, possibly Little Richard. This became a year of promise despite upheaval.

1957 offers a candid view of an eventful year in a decade of ups and downs. From mad bombers to mad hatters, the book maintains a consistency of captivating chapters. The chapters relating to organized crime suffer from a few minor inaccuracies, but overall it’s thrilling to read. The past is reanimated with a passionate fervor for the masses to enjoy.