What Are The Defining Characteristics Of The 1920s

nother name for the 1920s were also called the "Roaring Twenties" and they were a period of great social, cultural, and economic transformation. Other aspects that defined this period of time is Social liberty, creative experimentation, and rich living.The Great Gatsby, is a reflection of this period, capturing the spirit of the era's defining characteristics. One of the characteristics of the 1920s was the creation of a new consumer culture, where people were spending their money on expensive things. World War I has recently ended in this era and with this there was a newfound sense of prosperity and optimism. This newfound wealth led to a desire for material possessions and the development of new products and services that catered to this

“Why they came East I don’t know. They had spent a year in France for no particular reason, and then drifted here and there unrestfully wherever people played polo and were rich together.” (Fitzgerald, Page 8). This excerpt shows that Tom Buchanam comes from generational wealth and that they don't care and they can just drop everything and go to France.”She vanished into her rich house, into her rich, full life, leaving Gatsby nothing. He felt married to her, that was all.”(Fitzgerald Page 113).This shows how rich people specifically Daisy can escape the consequences of her actions as well as Gatsby.However, because of Gatsby love for Daisy he chooses to take the fall for her personally.Another characteristic of the 1920s was the rise of jazz music and the cultural revolution that came with it. Jazz music emerged in African American communities in the southern United States and spread rapidly throughout the country. It was a symbol of rebellion and freedom, and it quickly became associated with a self-indulgent lifestyle that was becoming increasingly popular among the youth.The Great Gatsby also reflects this cultural revolution through its portrayal of the character of Nick

He becomes involved in the world of Gatsby and his wealthy acquaintances, and he is exposed to a lifestyle that is vastly different from the one he grew up with. Nick is a representation of the cultural clash that was occurring in the 1920s, as traditional values and attitudes clashed with the new ideas and social norms of the era. The 1920s was also a time of significant social change, specifically for women. The decade saw the beginning of the term "New Woman," being used to describe women who were escaping from traditional gender roles and pursuing careers and independence. The ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which allowed women the right to vote, was a significant milestone in this movement. The Great Gatsby reflects this social change through its portrayal of the character of Jordan Baker. The young woman is a professional golfer who is independent and self-reliant. She represents the new kind of women who were breaking free from traditional gender roles and carving out their own paths in life.Finally, the 1920s was a time of moral ambiguity and