American folk revival

The American folk revival was a cultural movement in the mid-20th century that rediscovered and celebrated traditional American folk music and stories. It gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, emphasizing authentic, grassroots music as a way to express social values and connect with American roots. Artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez played key roles, blending old songs with new ideas to inspire social change. The movement also helped preserve folk traditions and influenced later genres, making folk music an important part of American cultural identity.