A retrospect of teachers and teaching in American schools from the 1950s to the 1980s is presented. In this overview of American education, the impact of the following events and social changes is measured: (1) the "baby boom" of the 1950s; (2) the focus upon suburban living; (3) the effect of the "baby boom" on the demand for teachers; (4) the effect of television in schools and the home; (5) the concentration upon science and mathematics as a reaction to Sputnik; (6) desegregation, the erosion of the cities, and focus on disadvantaged children; (7) the increased social agenda of the schools; (8) the Vietnam war; (9) increased career options for women; (10) declining enrollment; (11) the diversifying of the needs of students and the rise of multiculturalism; (12) the advent of computers; and (13) the increase in demands for accountability. An analysis of these societal factors and their impact upon schooling includes a discussion on the changing role of teachers and the challenges to schools of education to produce effective teachers in the future. (JD)