Less apparent at the time, but in many ways more problematic, were deep-seated structural developments in the work force. By the late 1960s millions of baby boomers were already crowding the job market. Ever-higher percentages of women were also looking for employment outside the home. A rise in immigrant workers, made possible after 1968 by the immigration law of 1965, did not affect most labor markets but further intensified popular unease. These developments combined to hike the numbers seeking work by 10.1 million between 1964 and 1970, or 1.6 million per year. Many of these people landed in the service sector of the economy-as employees in fast-food chains, discount retail outlets, hospitals, and nursing homes-or as clerical or maintenance workers. Most of these jobs tended to be part-time, offering low pay and benefits.80
( James T. Patterson )
[ Grand Expectations: The United ]
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