The Roaring Twenties

700 Words2 Pages

The roaring twenties were a time of cultural, artistic, and social explosion for the United States of America. This era was distinguished by several inventions and discoveries, rapid industrial growth, accelerated consumer demand and significant changes in American lifestyle. It was a time when people lived life to the fullest and pursued having a good time. The census of 1920 showed that for the first time in American history, more people lived in urban areas such as cities than out in the country. While the amount of modern technology would be somewhat lackluster in comparison to what we have today, I would be glad to live in the 1920’s. The first alluring aspect of the Roaring Twenties is that it was when cars were first introduced to the public on a large scale. When Henry Ford’s “Model T” rose to popularity in the 1920’s, people could get in an automobile and go wherever they pleased for a reasonable price. In 1914, a Model T cost about $490. By 1921, Ford had lowered the price to only $310. Through this, cars transformed from a privilege to a commodity. As cars gained popularity, common people were freed from the limitations of their location. The automobile created mobility on a scale like never before in human history, and the resulting effect on living habits and social customs is endless. If I lived in the 1920’s, I would enjoy the new freedom that comes along with this revolutionary feat. Another alluring aspect of the “Golden Twenties” was the social freedom and danger that came along with cars and prohibition. Though I disapprove of irresponsible drinking, I imagine it would be fun to attend one of the infamous “speakeasies” that were popular in the 1920’s. A speakeasy is an establishment that illega... ... middle of paper ... ... not want to live in the 20’s because of the horrible times that followed. If I could live in just the 20’s and return to the future before millions of Americans went bankrupt, that would be the best case scenario. So, while the Twenties would be a wonderful time to live in due to the rise of rich culture and economic prosperity of the country at the time, there would be several obvious disadvantages to living there as well. Though these dangers and problems of the 1920s are frightening, they are no match for the good feelings and positive atmosphere that the 20s hold as a decade. The positives far outweigh the negatives in this situation, unless I also have to live through the Great Depression in the 30’s. Speaking for the 20’s completely independently, it would be one of the greatest times of American History to live in and I, personally, would be glad to.

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