1960’s America1960’s America

The world of The OutsidersThe world of The Outsiders

General SettingGeneral Setting

The Outsiders presumably takes place in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where S.E. Hinton grew up.

We mostly see the east side of the city, from the perspective of the Greasers.

The Outsiders presumably takes place in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where S.E. Hinton grew up.

We mostly see the east side of the city, from the perspective of the Greasers.

FashionFashion

During the time period of the novel, Soc “types” would wear madras shirts and khakis. You can see an example of typical clothing below.

James Dean embodied the cultivated Greaser image. Leather jacket, jeans, white t-shirt and boots were typical of boys who emulated the free and uncontrolled lifestyle Dean seemed to live.

Madras Shirts

Hair Grease

Music and FilmMusic and FilmHere are some images of popular artists and movies.

Elvis Presley

Paul NewmanThe Beach Boys

Beach movies

The Beatles

Drive-insDrive-ins

Watching movies at the drive-in theatre was a popular thing to do, especially for teenagers.The car culture was a big part of society.You’ll notice that cars are often mentioned in the novel.

CarsCarsHere are two cars and a gas station that are mentioned in the novel.

Chevy Corvair

DX Gas Station1965 Ford Mustang

Drive-in RestaurantsDrive-in RestaurantsThese restaurants were a typical place to take a date. They were also where gangs hung out.

The American DreamThe American DreamHappiness for the characters of The Outsiders was a girl, a car, some money, a strong group of friends, and probably an ice-cold bottle of soda.How much has changed?