Flappers of the 1920s

Who were they? Flappers were typically northern, young, single, urban, middle-class women. In the booming economy, many had steady jobs. Hard working during the day and partying hard at night. Epitomizing the opposite of the conservative, reserved, Victorian woman, the common Flapper would dance, smoke, drink and enjoy other pleasures, like men would, at Speakeasies.

What did they do? Flappers engaged in much nightlife. They frequented vaudeville shows and jazz clubs. Recognizing that these new women adopted a carefree attitude towards prohibition, smoking, and dress code, Speakeasies were a common destination. Following the 19th Amendment, the life of the Flapper might have been created to help eliminate the social double standard.

When did they occur? The life of the Flapper reached its height in the 1920s. The look and style ended with the Great Depression in the 1930s as economic hardships took precedence over social escapades.

Where could they be found? Flappers could easily be most found in Speakeasies. On a larger geographic scale, they were mostly located in large urban cities such as Chicago.

Why were they significant? Flappers were significant because they challenged gender norms and defined their own independence. No longer did the socially acceptable woman have to have long hair with a dress that covered her knees. Open and carefree, these women also challenged sexual norms of society arguably paving the way for such women as Marilyn Monroe or even Madonna. ...AND ALL THE JAZZ