1920s: Innovations in Communication and Technology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to innovations in communication and technology during the 1920s in the United States.

Installment Plans

A form of credit allowing consumers to buy now and pay later, which fueled consumerism.

Assembly Line

A manufacturing process pioneered by Henry Ford, increasing production speed and lowering costs by using unskilled labor.

Welfare Capitalism

A business practice where companies provide benefits to workers, like higher wages and shorter workweeks, to reduce labor movements.

Laissez-Faire

An economic philosophy advocating minimal government intervention in business affairs.

Consumerism

The protection or promotion of the interests of consumers, especially through the buying and selling of goods.

Planned Obsolescence

The practice of creating products designed to have a limited lifespan, encouraging consumers to purchase newer models.

Scientific Management

A theory by Frederick Winslow Taylor that analyzes and synthesizes workflows to improve economic efficiency.

Radio

A communication medium that became widespread in the 1920s, breaking down barriers between rural and urban populations.

Pro-Business Policies

Policies favored by politicians and government that support the interests of businesses, often at the expense of labor regulations.

Harding's Normalcy

Warren G. Harding's political philosophy focusing on a return to pre-war normalcy and reducing government's role in economic matters.

Teapot Dome Scandal

A bribery scandal involving oil reserves during Harding's presidency, leading to the first conviction of a cabinet member.

Coolidge's Agenda

Calvin Coolidge's policies that focused on reducing government aid to farmers, increasing tax cuts for businesses, and maintaining immigration restrictions.

Nickelodeon

Early movie theaters where silent films were shown for just five cents.