The Lives Of American People In The 1920's America

Submitted By LC-Allison
Words: 2479
Pages: 10
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Thesis Statement: The lives of American people drastically changed following the victory of World War 1 and continued to do so until the beginning of World War 2. This era not only had an effect on living conditions but also altered the work place and the mindset of society as a whole. In the 1920’s America established itself as a great industrial power in the eyes of the world. In large, America prospered above all other countries due to its ability to manufacture new and improved products that were superior to those produced throughout the world. As with a great number of nations, America was experiencing a time of peace. Many facets of one’s life style were set on a course of progression. New fashion apparel, architectural designs, and advancements in the medical field were but a handful of contributing factors allowing the population to live a more stress free, healthier and longer life. The economy flourished as new philosophies and creative ideas were implemented into the business environment. Christianity however was being challenged due to developing theories in the scientific field and the uprising of other religions.
After World War One, America emerged as a major creditor and financier. Not only was the nation economically stable, it maintained an active foreign peace policy. Our ties with Columbia improved and promoted peace in the Pacific regions. Over 80 percent of the war debt that Italy owed to the United States was negated and the interest rate was lowered to .04 percent. Great Britain, France, Italy, and Japan met with American officials to stop an ongoing naval arms race. They agreed to a proposed foreign peace policy stipulating that no new battleships were to be built for 10 years. The twenties was a peaceful time around the world.
Of the changes throughout our nation were women’s fashions, actions and rights. The era of the “flapper” had begun; women dressed in more colorful and shorter dresses to reflect their emotion and mood. Designer clothing trimmed in furs as well as new patterns and textures created a fresh innovative style. Dresses designed to be worn just below the knees became popular so that when dancing, the knees became exposed. Low cut neck lines and sleeves provided opportunity to display costume jewelry making individuals appear as upper class citizens. With a new appearance of women came an uprising of the so called “new woman”. It became acceptable for them to smoke and drink in public. Dance with closer body contact, and wear shorter hair styles inspired by Hollywood stars. Makeup was now a necessity and women played a greater role in the work force in place of being caretakers in their homes. This was the introduction of the new independent woman.
The building standards improved due to political influences and business leaders within the industry pushing for the standard of low-cost housing, making homes more affordable. Modernistic materials and methods made it possible to construct housing that was more fuel efficient but at the same time directed toward modern living. The breakfast nook became a desirable feature in the 1920’s by decreasing dining room space and increasing lounge areas for socializing and entertaining. Homes were decorated in brighter colors for an artsy appearance expressing aspirations. Decorative homes replaced simple floor plans from the past.
Several major breakthroughs related to the medical field such as vitamins, medications and vaccines were developed. The discovery of anti-bacterial drugs saved many lives from bacterial and viral infections. Doctors researching the cause of colds and influenza made advances and became aware of preventative measures limiting the propagation of these illnesses. The treatment of diabetes utilizing Insulin was in high demand for those stricken with the debilitating condition. Prior to this discovery many died for the lack of an effective treatment. The electrocardiogram monitoring system
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