The Roaring Twenties was a truly unique decade that witnessed unprecedented prosperity and change. Despite experiencing both positive and negative events, the United States emerged as a highly influential force in shaping the future. The 1920s were undeniably “Roaring” in multiple aspects, with significant transformations occurring in American society. Numerous new industries emerged during this period, profoundly impacting society and the American way of life. Interestingly, even the federal government underwent a shift in its perception of the business industry. The defining characteristics of this decade have ensured it remains etched in American memory, forever remembered for its far-reaching influence.
The 1920’s brought about a significant transformation in American society, impacting the economy and individual lives. African Americans faced challenges during this time but also spearheaded cultural movements like the Harlem Renaissance. Both black and white populations felt the effects of the 1920’s, demanding widespread attention. It is worth mentioning that incidents of racial discrimination existed in the United States prior to this decade. However, an important achievement occurred in 1920 with the adoption of the nineteenth amendment, which granted women’s suffrage. This milestone brought confusion and uncertainty to the women’s movement as it considered its future goals and strategies.
Prohibition, which started in 1920 following the adoption of the eighteenth amendment in 1919, had a significant impact on the Roaring Twenties and early years of the depression. Its aim was to outlaw illegal alcohol sales and manufacturing through law and government intervention in order to alter individual behavior. Al Capone and George Moran, both well-known gangsters referred to as the 20th Century Gangsters, supported this policy. However, they faced opposition from rival gangs who also sought control over the illegal alcohol trade in major cities. A noteworthy incident occurred on Valentines Day in 1929 when Al Capone’s men disguised themselves as police officers and carried out a shooting against members of the Moran gang. Prohibition was just one of many societal changes witnessed by American Society during this period.
The Stock Market Crash of 1929 had a profound impact on American society. In the early 1920’s, there was rapid growth in the stock market as individual investors drove up prices on the New York stock exchange. This led Americans to believe that investing in banks could bring significant financial gains, causing them to invest all their savings in common stocks.
However, in September, the market faltered and experienced a sudden and dramatic downturn. As a result, banks closed and investors lost all their savings overnight. The crash of 1929 continues to be feared by Americans who worry about its recurrence.
Furthermore, this event acted as a catalyst for change within American society and its way of life.
In the 1920s, several electrically powered consumer products were introduced across industries. These included the electric iron and refrigerator. The Installment Purchase Plan allowed many Americans to afford necessities such as electric stoves and refrigerators by offering monthly payments. The automobile industry also had a significant impact during this time with the introduction of the durable consumer product known as the automobile. Henry Ford’s Model T, a four-door car with seats and glass, could be purchased for around $250. Ford’s Assembly line revolutionized production by enabling quick assembly and efficient marketing. Another influential industry that emerged in the 1920s was commercial aviation. Charles A. Lindbergh became an American hero when he completed his daring exhibition by flying across the Atlantic Ocean from New York to Paris in 33 hours and 30 minutes using a single-engine airplane. Moreover, there was notable growth in the Communications Industry during this period as well. The radio gained popularity during World War I and became a common source of entertainment in almost every American householdThe advent of radio had a significant impact on American politics as it enabled presidents to deliver their inaugural speeches for the first time through this medium. Moreover, the 1920s witnessed growth and innovation in various industries, including electric appliances and automobiles, while also witnessing the rise of new entertainment and communication mediums such as radio that became increasingly important for Americans. This technological advancement particularly benefited baseball fans who could now enjoy live broadcasts of games, including those featuring the Brooklyn Dodgers. For more information on this topic, please refer to the bibliography.
