I grew up in the 50s and 60s. You're entirely correct. America was a much better place, despite all of the societal upheavals and changes of the times.
A lot of damage has been done since then, but it's not impossible to reverse and undo. In fact, I believe that the culture is now moving back in a rightward direction in response to all of the destructive excesses of the progressive liberal agenda.
This is simply human nature. In millions of small acts, by millions of people, making ever so slight changes in their personal choices, the culture is moving back toward sanity.
The politicians and others in the ruling class have no control over this, and are on the effect end of the equation. The people are at cause.
The November Tsunami is only the most visible sign of what's occurring below the surface. Americans know who and what they are, and are exerting their will to stand firm that beingness, the political class be damned.
Trust me. In your lifetime, you will see the re-emergence of an America that those of us born in earlier times remember well.