Introduction

The show Mad Men, which is set in the early 1960s, has captivated audiences with its vivid portrayal of office culture during that period. Although the series takes some creative liberties for dramatic purposes, it is acknowledged for its generally accurate depiction. This article delves into the specifics of the show's representation of early 1960s office culture and provides insights into the real-world dynamics of the time.

Gender Roles

One of the most prominent elements of Mad Men is its accurate reflection of the stark gender inequalities prevalent in the early 1960s. Characters such as Peggy Olson exemplify the struggles faced by women in a male-dominated workplace. These barriers included limited access to high-level positions and stemming from a cultural mindset that expected women to be in supportive, secretarial roles.

Work Environment and Corporate Culture

The work environment in Mad Men accurately captures the formality and hierarchical structures of the era. Smoke-filled room socials and the emphasis on image and presentation are vividly portrayed, representing the typical business culture of advertising agencies. The show also highlights the intense competition within the industry, drives for creativity and client relationships, and the long hours and dedication required.

Social Norms and Historical Context

Mad Men successfully weaves social norms and historical events into its narrative, reflecting broader societal changes. Key themes include civil rights, changing consumer values, and the evolving roles of women. For instance, the civil rights movement influenced the characters and their decisions, while the increasing number of divorces and women returning to the workforce in the 1970s pushed for better job options and promotions.

A Personal Account of the Late 1970s

My own experiences in downtown San Francisco in the late 1970s revealed a stark reflection of these dynamics. A strict dress code was enforced for women, with skirts or dresses and nylons being the norm. Submissions from female employees to their male counterparts were evident, with women generally occupying clerical positions while men were in management. Older women often had authority over younger ones, an arrangement that could be both supportive and oppressive.

Women in this era were trained mainly in typing and shorthand. As the 1970s progressed, an increase in women divorcing led to a surge in the number of women returning to the workforce. These women were often older and had a different perspective, demanding better jobs and promotions. This was particularly evident in cases like that of a supermarket cashier who sued for discrimination after being repeatedly turned down for promotions, while her son, hired as a stock boy, was quickly offered specialized training opportunities.

Conclusion

The combination of Mad Men and personal accounts like my own shed light on the early 1960s and 1970s office cultures. While the show takes dramatic liberties, it successfully captures the essence of these periods, providing a lens through which to understand the complexities and challenges faced by both the characters and real-world workers of that time.