The 1960s was the beginning of a major cultural shift in the United States. The cultural shift that began in the 1960s is referred to as the 1960s counterculture. Counterculture is defined as “a way of life and set of attitudes opposed to or at variance with the prevailing social norm” (Google). Although it is hard to pinpoint one single thing that created this movement, it is evident that a major catalyst for this tolerant culture that emerged was that of the Woodstock Music Festival in August of 1969. Woodstock created a culture focused on unity and understanding of self and others. This was a stark contrast to the temperament of the preceding years. The attitude of the years prior was jaded. This was due largely in part to current events.