What Surprising Connection Exists Between Movies and the Invention of the Modern Credit Card?

Category: Movies > Consumerism

One of the lesser-known yet intriguing connections between the film industry and consumer finance is the pivotal role that the movie “The Graduate” played in the popularization of the modern credit card. Released in 1967, the film featured a memorable scene where Dustin Hoffman's character is advised to pursue "plastics" as a career, which symbolized the burgeoning consumerism of the era. This dialogue coincided with a significant shift in financial practices, as credit cards were beginning to gain traction in everyday life. The increased visibility of credit cards in films during the late 1960s and 70s helped to normalize their use, influencing public perception and acceptance. As a result, the intertwining of cinematic storytelling and the rise of consumer credit not only transformed the way people viewed money but also altered the landscape of American culture, making credit cards a staple of modern life.

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