The Roaring Twenties

Chapter 24

Mr. RauschenbachSocial Studies 8

• A period of time characterized by massive changes in American culture, a booming economy, and a carefree attitude towards the world and life in general.

• A time of incredible change where “modern” America begins to emerge. A turning point in our history.

• Warren G. Harding’s campaign slogan.

• Forget about changing the world and revert to a simpler life style.

• No Progressives

• No Imperialism

• No World War

• Harding is elected because of World War I and the recession that follows.

• Ohio Gang

• Friends – Cabinet – Spoils?

• Teapot Dome Scandal

• “I have no trouble with my enemies but my…friends…keep me walking the floor nights”

• Warren G. Harding dies of a heart attack.

• Calvin Coolidge becomes President.

• Soft-spoken, matter of fact man.

• “The business of America is business”

• Pro-business policies lift restrictions from the Progressive Era

• Trickle down economics

• Business Booms

• Products you want, not that you need.

• Advertising

• First widespread use of credit.

• installment buying - $10 month for 24 months

• People invest in the stock market

• companies expand – hire more people

•People make more money

•People spend more money

• The 1920’s marked a change in American society from the old to the new.

• American culture would develop into its modern form beginning in the 20’s.

• Short lived activity or fashion that involves great passion.

• Flagpole sitting, barnstorming, marathon dancing, etc.

• Young women who rebelled against traditional rules and expectations set for women.

• Rebels.

• Short hair, make-up, bright red lipstick, short, flashy dresses.

• Smoking and drinking in public, unescorted at night, spoke their mind.

• Changed the female image.

• Small minority.

Period of re-birth – African-American culture

Why re-birth?

Writers, poets, artists, musicians

Zora Neale Hurston, Louis Armstrong, Langston Hughes

• Grows out of Ragtime.• Created in New Orleans.• African American• Combination of African rhythms and

European melodies.• True American original.

• Symbol of the 1920’s – “Jazz Age”– Jam – impromptu performance

• “live for the moment”

• Individual contributions can lead to a great product.

• Change – old music to new.• Not accepted at first by most Americans, quickly wins

them over.

• Jazz made African Americans famous.• Provided a method of expression• Area of high achievement• Creates acceptance

• Jazz was popular in all cultural, racial and socio-economic parts of the population.

• Brings people together.• Mass Culture.