In the decades following World War II, North Carolina and the nation grappled with a new economic and political order. Due to major destruction in Europe, the US became an economic and military superpower. This combined with federal programs designed to support returning veterans and secure the US position as a military superpower, led to expanded economic opportunities and advances in new technologies. Direct evidence of these changes in North Carolina include the development of the Research Triangle Park and improvements in the states’ health systems. Related social changes led to the rise of suburban communities and a greatly expanded public school system. Of course, civil rights issues continued to grip the nation and North Carolina as African Americans and other minority groups continued to fight for their rights as American citizens protected by the 14^th Amendment.