Important period in American history with significant socio-political and cultural changes.
A period characterized by both prosperity and underlying tensions.
Prepare for a quiz on the key events and themes discussed in the 1920s.
Treaty of Versailles: The US did not ratify this treaty or join the League of Nations.
Economic Struggles: Difficulty reabsorbing returning soldiers after WWI.
Decline in Demand: European demand for US goods decreased post-war.
Labor Unrest: Increased strikes and labor disputes due to economic hardships.
Fear of Communism: Rise in anxiety regarding communist ideologies.
Racial Tensions: Increased racial tensions led to riots.
Women's Rights: Passage of the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote.
Racial Tensions: Notable events like the Red Summer, showcasing violent race riots.
US Isolationism: A return to isolationist policies post-WWI.
Anti-Communist Sentiment: Distrust towards communism influenced national policies.
Limitations on Free Speech: Schenk v. US (1919) tested the boundaries of free speech during wartime.
Government Involvement: Increased government role in the economy.
Lost Generation: Disillusionment with traditional values and norms among intellectuals.
Economic Fluctuations: Period of growth followed by economic collapse.
Increase in Consumption and Debt: Rising consumer culture led to increased personal debt.
Shopping Changes: Growth of department and chain stores revolutionized shopping.
Credit System: The introduction of credit changed purchasing behaviors.
Automobiles: Dramatic impact on economy and lifestyle, reshaping urban landscapes.
Low Unemployment: Economic stability brought low rates of unemployment.
Higher Living Standards: Increased standards of living due to economic growth.
Modern Amenities: Introduction of electricity and indoor plumbing became commonplace.
Real Income Growth: While many prospered, poverty remained a concern for many families.
Increased Productivity: Significant enhancements in manufacturing and service sectors.
Business Growth: Low taxes, interest rates, and few regulations fostered business expansion.
Media Influence: Variety of radio programs brought news, sports, and entertainment into homes.
Jazz Music: A defining cultural element that gained immense popularity.
Talkies: The advent of talking films in 1927 transformed the movie industry.
Cultural Icons: Popular heroes emerged, notably in sports, such as Babe Ruth, Jim Thorpe, and Jack Dempsey.
Aviator Fame: Charles Lindbergh became the most admired figure of the era due to his aviation achievements.
Challenges to Tradition: Traditional values faced opposition from progressive views.
Scopes Monkey Trial: A landmark trial over teaching evolution, showcasing conflict between modernity and tradition.
Prohibition: Introduced by the 18th Amendment, resulting in organized crime from illegal alcohol trade.
Repeal of Prohibition: The 21st Amendment in 1933 repealed the 18th Amendment.
19th Amendment: Granted women suffrage, though voting patterns were still influenced by male figures.
Labor Saving Devices: Home appliances, such as washing machines, eased household responsibilities.
Education and Employment: More women completed high school, and some entered the workforce in 'pink-collar' jobs.
Changing Morals and Fashions: Women's fashion became more daring (e.g., flappers).
Divorce Laws: Liberalization of divorce laws reflected changing social values.
Post-WWI Immigration: Increased immigration led to fears of societal transformation.
National Origins Act (1924): Established restrictive quotas on immigration.
Eugenics & IQ Tests: Used to justify discriminatory policies against certain groups.
Sacco and Vanzetti Trial: Highlighted anti-Italian sentiments and fears of radicalism (1927).
KKK Resurgence: The KKK grew in both the Midwest and South, broadening its targets beyond African Americans.
Washington Conference (1921): Major powers agreed to limit naval buildups and respect each other’s territories.
Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928): Aimed to renounce war as a means of resolving disputes.
Hawley-Smoot Tariff (1930): High tariffs that restricted international trade and affected global relations.