She was angry that, as far as the system was concerned, her contributions didn't count. And she did save her money; when she died she left my father and me (among other things) ten shares of Berkshire Hathaway "A" stock. (I can only buy "B" shares, myself).
I'm sorry if you don't like the way things have changed, but the 1950's - on so many levels - are not likely to return.
WE did just fine on my husband's salary. I gave up a career to stay at home with my kids, and I'd do it all over again. Yes, there were sacrifices..
But today... I lack for nothing I've ever wanted (and more) and when WE die, the kids will need a calculator to add up the shares of "stock" we're going to leave them..
The 50's and the 60's were the best of times, (even tho I appreciate the microwave, computer. satellite, cell-phone and tivo)... life really was simpler back then. I won't bore you with the details...you'd just scoff at it anyway..
But it wouldn't hurt this generation to acquire some of the "saving for a rainy day" skills we practiced.
sw