THE ROARING LIFE OF THE 1920’S
CHANGING WAYS OF LIFE The growth of cities results in new urban lifestyles that conflict with traditional values Supporters of prohibition (18th amendment / ) clash with those who ignore the law Alcohol led to crime, family abuse, accidents on the job Al Capone / Chicago / bootlegging / $60 million per yr
SCIENCE AND RELIGION CLASH Fundamentalists believe that the biblical account of creation is true.. Liberal thinkers believe in scientific Theory of evolution The opposing values clash in the scopes trial, (TN) which questions the roles of science and religion in public schools
THE TWENTIES WOMAN The flapper represents a new ideal for young women…(new fashions & urban attitudes) more independent A double standard requires women to abide by stricter standards of behavior than men Miss America (1921) Atlantic City, NJ (16 & 15 yr olds were 1st two winners) Women assume new roles in workplace while earning less…typists, secretaries Technological advances simplify household tasks…still responsible for housework & child care
EDUCATION AND POPULAR CULTURE Public high schools take on new roles in preparing students for the future Vocational training & home economics Expanded news coverage & radio give Americans shared experiences…(KDKA radio / Pittsburgh / 1920) Sports heroes & movie stars inspire Americans (Babe Ruth 60 hr (1927) / Charlie Chaplin – wrote & directed most films) Writers, artists, composers experiment with new styles Charles Lindbergh – 1st nonstop solo flight across Atlantic ( 33.5 hrs – 3,614 miles) Literature expresses a clash of values within society
THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE (Literary & artistic movement celebrating African-American culture) Many African Americans moved from south to northern cities 1. Racial violence 2. Economic discrimination 3. Natural disasters Tensions resulting from influx of African Americans erupt in race riots African-American leaders propose different ways of responding to discrimination & violence…(NAACP protested / marches, etc.)
THE RENAISSANCE… African-American writers explore & celebrate their heritage & performers & musicians popularize their culture by appealing to a wide audience Move to Harlem alarmed whites & left the community…no violence… Louis Armstrong – one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time Great ability to improvise Duke Ellington – great composer – performed in Harlem’s cotton club