Life in America in the 1920's
Money and Power
Wall Street was the center of the money and power in the 1920's. It allowed people all over the world to invest and exchange in stock. This caused the nation’s total wealth to double between 1920 to 1929. The economic growth seemed to reach its highest point thanks to Wall Street.
Abuse of Power
Prohibition was a nationwide constitutional ban on the sale and production of alcohol. Since prohibition was a law, however, it made Americans want alcohol more. Therefore it led to many Americans breaking the law.
This caused a rise in gang violence and other crimes that led to less and less people supporting Prohibition by the end of the 1920s. In early 1933, Congress adopted a resolution proposing a 21st Amendment to the Constitution that would repeal the 18th.
Pride
Charles Lindenburg was the first American to fly across the Atlantic from New York to Paris. He called his airplane the Spirit of St. Louis. He proved that young men can do great things. New York held a parade in honor of his success, which was the 2nd biggest parade held in America. The last continent to not be flown to was Antartica. On November 2nd 1929, General Richard Byrd flew headed toward the south pole of the Antartic. He reached the south pole about 10 hours later. These acomplishments made people believe the future of America was unlimited, and created a society filled with optimism.
Americans found entertainment in baseball as well. Babe Ruth was the all star of his day, holding a world record for most home runs scored. Fans drove to see him for only 35 cents. These three men were an example of what being a hero was like in the 1920's.
Americans took pride in these accomplishments.
Gender Role for Women
Women found confidence, freeom and independence in the 1920's. The 19th ammendment allowed them the right to vote. Women discovered a new style known as the flapper, which consisted of short hair and dresses, more makeup, and much more partying.
Materialism
Cars and radios provided a new found freedom and independence to America. Cars allowed Americans to decide where and when they wanted to go places and how long. Radio’s presented a new way of conversation and urgent messaging to the American people. It also allowed people to listen to the same music in places like their house, their cars, or even bars. The phenomenon of cars and radios became a number one material want for Americans.
