How Culture Changed in the 1920s

The 1920s, also widely known as the ‘Roaring Twenties,’ was a decade of great transformation and social change. The end of World War I and the start of a new era in the United States brought about significant changes in American culture, including art, music, fashion, and lifestyle. In this post, we will discuss how culture changed in the 1920s and explore the major factors that contributed to this transformation.

Introduction of Jazz and African-American Music

One of the biggest cultural transformations of the 1920s was the introduction of jazz and African-American music. Jazz, which originated in New Orleans, quickly became popular throughout the United States, and had a significant influence on popular music during the time. This music form was widely known as the ‘soundtrack of the Roaring Twenties’.

Evolution of Art and Literature

The 1920s also saw a significant evolution in art and literature. The traditional romanticism movement gave way to modernism, which was characterized by bold experimentation and avant-garde techniques. This led to the emergence of artistic movements such as Surrealism and cubism, which heavily influenced the work of artists and writers.

Changes in Women’s Fashion

Women’s fashion in the 1920s underwent significant changes. The traditional restrictive clothing such as corsets and petticoats were abandoned in favour of looser, comfortable, and more practical outfits. The ‘flapper look’ was highly popular, with short haircuts and shorter hemlines. This new fashion trend was seen as an expression of freedom and individuality for women.

Rising Popularity of Hollywood

The Hollywood film industry grew rapidly in the 1920s, and American movies had a massive influence globally. The era saw the emergence of silent films, followed by the introduction of sound pictures that quickly became popular. Films were seen as a platform that could help people escape from their daily lives, and it significantly influenced the culture of the time.

New Social Norms and Behaviour

The 1920s also saw a significant shift in social norms and behaviours. Traditional gender roles were challenged by the suffrage movement, resulting in an increase in the number of women in the workforce. Shorter hemlines, looser clothing, and accessorizing were seen as acceptable norms of femininity. People also had a more relaxed attitude towards drinking and smoking. All of these factors contributed to creating a new culture of individual expression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 1920s was a decade of great cultural transformation in the United States. Jazz and African-American music, the evolution of art and literature, changes in women’s fashion, the rising popularity of Hollywood, and new social norms and behaviour all contributed to a new sense of individuality and freedom in the US. The legacy of the Roaring Twenties can still be felt today, as its cultural influence still resonates in modern society.