How The Volkswagen Beetle Changed American Culture

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On May 28th, 1937 the world was transformed with a bug, a Volkswagen Beetle that is. In the early 1930’s, Adolf Hitler wanted to improve the greater good of Germany by mobilizing the country through an affordable vehicle. Hitler’s plan was to catch Germany up to speed with the rest of the world, while also improving the economic state of the country at the end of World War II. The Volkswagen Beetle was recognized as, “The People’s Car,” for it was to be accessible for any ordinary person or family to own (Evans). Hitler also insured that the design of the beetle could be used as a military vehicle if ever required. The “beetle bug” came to American in the 1950’s, making an extreme statement; the tiny German engineered car was purchased by over 40 million Americans (Evans). The mass amount of vehicles being bought by Americans symbolized the partnership between the United States and Western European countries coming together postwar. The business created good relations between America and Germany and brought the countries together (Rieger). Although Adolf Hitler is not known for his rare good deeds to the world, the Volkswagen Bug is still an iconic figure in American culture today. The topsy turvy little car with the engine in the trunk was the change the world desired in the form of an automobile. …show more content…

The advertisement illustrates the most recent model of the Volkswagen Bug overflowing with different popular odds and ins from the past seventy years. It is an example of how the beetle owner’s lives have changed, however, they still are loyal to the same unique car as their lives grow and expand with the vehicle that they love so much. The same rounded structure, now with a front engine, and more predominate curves across the body is still the same loved little car; it is still the same Volkswagen

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