The Roaring Twenties Notes

Key Terms

• Xenophobia: Fear or hatred of foreigners or those from different cultures.

• Nativism: Preference for native-born citizens over immigrants.

• Isolationism: Avoidance of international involvement.

• Communism: System advocating for collective ownership and a classless society.

• Anarchists: Individuals opposed to all government forms.

City Life

• Great Migration: Movement of African Americans to northern cities for better opportunities.

• Urbanization led to growth, with skyscrapers symbolizing prosperity.

• Liberal Democrats thrived in cities.

Living in Large Cities (e.g., NYC)

• Predominantly Democratic.

Suburbia

• Mass transportation and cars allowed greater mobility.

• Primarily middle and upper-class residents.

• Conservative Republicans were more prevalent here.

Rural Life

• Declining farm incomes and crop prices.

• Less stock market engagement and population mobility.

Amendments

• 18th Amendment: Prohibition of alcohol sale.

• 21st Amendment: Repealed the 18th Amendment, legalizing alcohol again.

Notable Figures & Culture

• Al Capone: Notorious for illegal activities during Prohibition.

• Speakeasy: Illegal bars during Prohibition.

• Nosferatu: Iconic horror film of the time.

Women in Society

• Flappers: Women who embraced modern dress and social changes, living longer and marrying later.

Study Guide: The Ohio Gang and Associated Events

The Ohio Gang

• Involved in multiple scandals and illegal deals during the early 20th century.

Teapot Dome Scandal

• A significant bribery scandal involving the leasing of government oil reserves to private companies in exchange for bribes.

Consumer Revolution

• Installment Buying: A method of purchasing in which consumers pay for products in small amounts over a scheduled period. This was an early form of credit.

Stock Market

• Black Tuesday: The stock market crash that occurred on October 29, 1929, marking the start of the Great Depression.

• Bull vs. Bear Markets:

  • Bull Market: Characterized by rising stock prices.

  • Bear Market: Characterized by falling stock prices.

• Investment Strategy: The primary goal is to sell stocks at a high price and buy at a low