What Does the 1920s Mean to Me?

When I think about the decade of the 1920s, immediately I think about the lavish lifestyles of young adults throughout this time, specifically new-found freedom for women. Modest Victorian dresses were switched out for knee-length, fringed ones; new styles of makeup and products emerged; and the modern concept of dating began to form its course. I think of the large social scene that came about in the 1920s, partially due to the increased popularity of motion pictures at the cinema. American society now had the concept of ‘movie stars’ which added even more to the glamorous lifestyle that I associate with the 1920s. The nickname of the ‘roaring Twenties’ seems to be based in truth to me, as this decade reminds me of a time of big band music, elaborate dances, and an incredibly social and fun time. I think of the groundbreaking event of women gaining the right to vote during this decade, after years of protesting and petitioning.

This is not to say that the 1920s consisted of all things good; I also think about the Jim Crow laws plaguing the southern United States. I think about the inequality of humans during this time and how Black and other people of color were not guaranteed the same freedoms and rights as whites. Unlike women, Black people and other people of color did not gain the right to vote and would not gain it for many decades to come. I also think about the crash of the economy in the late 1920s which led to the Great Depression of the United States.

After finding a few images to learn more about the 1920s, I can see that it truly was a time of new technological advancements, a shift in the social settings and societal norms, as well as a politically changing environment. The first image shows a group of friends having their picture taken at a fair with balloons in their hands. Perhaps they had just finished a game at a fair booth, or will soon grab food from another booth. This type of fun event is what I am reminded of when thinking about the 1920s.

The second image is a camera and video set recording a group of flapper dancers, which was something I had mentioned earlier; the rise in motion pictures as well as new dances and fashion for women. The women seem to be wearing elaborate dresses with bows as well as a statement hat on their head. The background which they are being filmed against also seems to have a lot of visual effects occurring, which only adds to the effect of the glamorous 1920s cinema.

This was a time where America saw many different changes; women gained the right to vote; cars, cameras, and other technological advancements began to take priority; and towards the end of the decade, the financial shift following the economic crash of 1929. It was an ever-changing time with so much rich history to tell. The 1920s were not as glamorous throughout the United States; racial tensions were high and many people still lived in poverty. It was definitely a time with endless history attached to it.