2. Slang of the 20th Century: From Flappers to Rappers (From Tom Dalzell’s Book) Alan D. DeSantis

3. Some Opening Notes: A) Slang changes quickly –10% retention rate every 10 years (Eble, 1987) B) But slang is reincarnated over and over again –The same terms are seen every generation –Often w/ different meanings (drag, fat, bimbo) C) Used almost exclusively by the young D) Every generation “slangs” what is important to them –Studying their slang is a way to understand a generation

4. Some Opening Notes: E) Why is slang used? –1) It conceals meaning from parents But do kids use slang in front of them? –2) It identifies you as part of the tribe –3) It defies authority (talking like a rebel) –4) It makes one feel special & important –5) It excludes other peer groups

5. I. From 1900-1919 Before the end of WWI (1919) there was little use of slang –Why: Mass media was not a “national” phenomenon Terms could not be shared or spread by the youth culture College students used slang “locally” –At UK, we have: Ho, POT, the Keys But there was one NATIONAL exception..

6. I. From 1900-1919 1) 23 Skidoo –Three meanings: OK, Good, See You Later –This was the 1st National Slang Term (1905)

7. II. 1920-30s: From Flappers to Jazz 1920s captured by F. Scott Fitzgerald –Times were good and decadent The early 30s were depression years –Times were tough The late 30s were swing and big-band jazz (the gangster rap of the age) –Strong slang influence from blacks culture