Key Characteristics of the Second Half of the 20th Century

What are some of the key characteristics of the second half of the 20^th Century and beginning decades of the 21^st Century, during the period of the Decolonization (1945-1980) and Globalization (1980-Present)? In reading literature from these eras, which characteristics of these historical eras might you find reflected in the text?

Once again, we are looking for ways that historical context impacts literature. What might we be able to learn about this historic era – and these historic events – by reading literature written during these times?