The_1920s_

The 1920s Overview

• Important period in American history with significant socio-political and cultural changes.

• A period characterized by both prosperity and underlying tensions.

Quiz Next Class

• Prepare for a quiz on the key events and themes discussed in the 1920s.

A Flawed Peace

• 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.

Non-Military Outcomes of WWI

• 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.

Daily Life in the Roaring '20s

• 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.

Prosperity of the 1920s

• 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.

Mass Society & Homogenization

• 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.

Changing Attitudes

• 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.

Women in the 1920s

• 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.

Nativism and Anti-Immigrant Efforts

• 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.

Foreign Policy & Isolationism

• 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.