The Silent Generation refers to
people who were born between 1925 and 1945. There are several theories as to where the label 'Silent Generation' originated. The children who grew up during this time worked very hard and kept quiet. It was commonly understood that children should be seen and not heard.
During this time, the House Committee on Un-American Activities launched an assault on political freedom in America. This, in conjunction with Senator Joseph McCarthy's overzealous attempts to feed anti-
communist sentiment in America, made it dangerous for
people to speak freely about their opinions and beliefs. They became cautious about where they went and whom they were seen with. Therefore, the
people were effectively 'silenced.'
"This group of
people, most known for their hard
work, just stopped talking one day" ?
"Yes, the silent generation is what most
people call them".