Essay, Research Paper: The 1920s

In conclusion, the political, economic, and social aspects of the 1920's had great impact on the United States. First, the political aspects that shaped America included the Constitution and scandal. The 18th and 19th amendments became a part of the Constitution. The presidencies that took place throughout the 1920's played a key role in American history. In addition, American economics dominated the 1920's. Electricity and the invention of automobiles seemed to bring great things to America. The new marketing techniques created more eager consumers in the 1920's. Lastly, the social factors that influenced America included that of racial, ethnic, and religious diversity. Women were drastically effected in the 1920's from being allowed to vote to working jobs such as secretaries and clerks. The revival of the Ku Klux Klan struck fear in the eyes of many Americans. When the African American that fought in World War I returned home, they hoped to be treated with honor and respect; however, they faced the beginning of segregation. The Prohibition Laws, which banned liquor, drew great disagreements throughout the country. Also, the immigration laws raised great concern among the American public. Sports played a dominant role in the 1920's as a form of entertainment. The media industry boomed in the 1920's which aided in the development of Broadway and Hollywood. Literature, art, and Jazz dominated the 1920's. The significance of this time period is that not only did it effect America then, it also effects America now by advancements of technology and the introduction of new ideas. Ultimately, the political, economic, and social aspects of the 1920's forced a great impact on the United States.

Definitions
1. assembly line- a row of workers and machines along which work until the final product is made; used by Henry Ford to manufacture cars in 1913.

2. barrios- low rent, urban, Hispanic communities that were rich in Mexican culture but lacking in services and living conditions.

3. flapper- symbol of the 1920's; a young woman who had abandoned views of femininity and women's roles that older people had. Often sexy and daring; these women smoked in public, drank liquor, and flirted openly with men.

4. fundamentalism- the belief in a literal interpretation of the Bible; originated in 1910.

5. ghetto- segregated slums, usually overcrowded and high in rent, that began to appear in American cities around WWI.

6. installment plan- a plan under which a consumer made an initial payment and then spread the rest of the cost of the product over several months or years.

7. red scare- American anxiety over a communist threat that began in 1919, leading to the arrest or deportation of many communists, immigrants, and socialists.

8. scientific management- a business approach that focuses on efficiency and speed; advocated by Frederick W. Taylor.

9. speakeasies- secret clubs where people could drink during Prohibition by whispering a password.

10. tabloid- a newspaper that caught the eye of readers with banner headlines, revealing photos, and stories about sex and violence.

11. welfare capitalism- large benefits provided by corporations designed to keep workers happy and productive.