Roaring 20s

     The 1920’s, arguably one of the most upbeat and innovative periods of American history, was a time of experience. Modern technologies, such as the radio and refrigerators, presented new opportunities to the people, and the cultural life of the time was lively.

     Many people began to move into cities, whereas in the past, many people lived in rural farm areas. African Americans were also moving into large cities, so the there was a lot of cultural injection and infusion, bringing them new and exciting experiences. Technological advancement had a big impact at the time. Inventions such as the vacuum, washer, refrigerator, and radios began playing a large part in peoples’ lives. With radios came a new love for dancing; people danced all the time. One of the most popular developments was that of the automobile, which soon became a necessity for Americans. This time of development brought Americans to favor pre-made textiles, use house appliances, and spend their time enjoying pastimes such as movies, a luxury those of the past could not enjoy.

     The 20s’ also signaled the prohibition era, in which the manufacturing and the selling of alcohol was illegal. The legal standard for alcohol was 0.05%. Many taverns, saloons, and bars were shut down, which gave way to a rise in smuggling and organized crime. Beyond these changes in sentiment towards alcohol, there were dramatic, social, and political changes. The U.S.’s total wealth doubled from the years 1920-1929; this is known as the boom.

     Flappers, a “new breed” of western women, wore shorter dresses and defied their social and sexual roles, are remembered as an iconic hallmark of the period, signifying a change in culture and how people were supposed to act. However, these women themselves were not all they’re made out to be, since not that many women wore them or participated in this new culture immediately. More important in the female sphere was women’s right to vote finally being granted, which has repercussions that ring through history, even now.