The Georgia Literature Commission was created amid a national wave of concern regarding the materials being taught in schools across the United States. Educators and lawmakers were increasingly worried about the potential impact of literature on young minds, leading to the establishment of commissions in various states to oversee curricular content. The formation of the Georgia Literature Commission was notable for its proactive approach to censorship, reflecting the cultural and political climate of the 1950s, characterized by a strong emphasis on traditional values and a wariness of controversial ideas and perspectives.

The commission was tasked with reviewing existing literature and recommending changes to school curricula, ensuring that only materials deemed appropriate by certain standards would be available to students. This effort aligned with national sentiments during the Cold War, where there was a perceived need for ideological purity and conformity among youth education. Supporters believed this was crucial for maintaining moral standards, while critics argued it infringed on intellectual freedom and the exploration of diverse ideas.

The commission's initiatives also echoed the sentiments present in other forms of censorship sweeping through various institutions, including libraries and other educational settings. As a result, books with progressive themes or those challenging mainstream values faced increased scrutiny, leading to a significant cultural debate about the importance of free expression versus the perceived need for safeguarding societal morals.