Prosperity & Materialism Chapter 22 Part 2

Technological Advances: The Automobile aka The Horseless Carriage First successful automobile built by Charles and Frank Duryea in 1893 (pre-WWI). Cars had a dramatic effect on American life—especially farmers. After WWI, factories began to produce automobiles quickly thanks to Henry Ford’s assembly line. Prices of automobiles lowered; families could now afford cars, create suburban areas, and go on vacations.

The Model A: Side Note Improved model from the Model T. Began production in 1927. Prices ranged from $385-$570 (top of the line) Four color choices: gray, black, green, and red. Quickly became the most popular car in America.

Technological Advances: The Airplane 1927: Twenty-five year old aviator, Charles Lindbergh, made the first non-stop solo flight across the Atlantic. Plane named the Spirit of St. Louis.

Tom Rutledge: The Man Responsible (Side Note) 24 year old engineer Employed at the Wright brothers’ airplane engine factory. Assigned the project of building Lindbergh’s engine. Not happy—Lindbergh unknown; wanted to make an engine for another contestant Rutledge, however, built the engine, tested it, unassembled it, checked its durability, re-assembled it, and let Lindbergh use it.

Technological Advances: Electric Wonders 2nd greatest revolutionary change in American society was electricity. Nearly all American cities/towns had electricity by the 1920s; was now common to use. Inventors using electricity to improve technology. Radio changed American life—reached across regions; helped to create a unified American culture.

1920s Business Business booming. Americans began to have “leftover” money at the end of the month—decided to invest (speculate). People often taken advantage of in “get rich quick” schemes; often ended up in debt. Many people buying too much on credit—more than they could pay back if investments went bad.

1920s Business Public attitude and government began to shift to favor big businesses. The Man Nobody Knows—book written by Bruce Barton. Claimed Jesus was the ultimate businessman Calvin Coolidge: “The business of America is business!”

Summary 1920s Top Priority: Material Prosperity (Wealth) Mid-20s Characteristics Increased desire for law and order; excessive purchase on credit; climbing prices on the stock market.