19321963

19321963 is a shorthand designation used in historical and cultural contexts to refer to the interval between the years 1932 and 1963, inclusive. It is sometimes used in bibliographies, period studies, or cataloging to summarize a distinct mid-20th-century era without naming specific events.

Historical context: The period begins during the tail end of the Great Depression, with political and economic instability in several regions. The late 1930s saw the rise of totalitarian regimes and escalating international conflict, culminating in World War II (1939–1945). The war’s outcome reshaped the international order and accelerated decolonization, economic reconstruction, and the onset of the Cold War.

Cultural and scientific developments: The era witnessed dramatic changes in media and culture, including the spread of cinema, radio, and the emergence of television. It also encompassed major scientific advances and the early space age, with milestones in aviation, nuclear physics, and space exploration following the launch of Sputnik in 1957. Social movements and reforms, including civil rights developments in various countries, also marked the period.

Usage and interpretation: As a period label, 19321963 is used to analyze broad trends across multiple regions. Its usefulness depends on the focus of study, and it does not correspond to a fixed political or cultural boundary. Critics note that such wide ranges can obscure regional variations.