CSU-Global: Examining Contradictions & Development in 1920s America

This essay delves into the contradictions present in 1920s America, focusing on the dichotomy between prosperity and intolerance, as well as the clash between liberalism and conservatism. It examines how these opposing forces, such as the rise of luxury alongside widespread poverty and the struggle between traditional values and progressive ideals, shaped the development of the nation. The essay further discusses how these contradictions led to positive changes, including increased awareness of rights among marginalized communities and advancements in technology and communication, while also acknowledging the preservation of cultural values by traditionalists. Ultimately, the essay argues that the tensions created by these contradictory views contributed to the creation of a new, reorganized, and improved American society.

Running Head: CONTRADICTIONS IN 1920S 1
1920s A Decade Full of
Contradictions

CONTRADICTIONS IN 1920S 2
The world over there have been instances during the history when contradictory
conditions are present in different sections the society. Contradictions can be present in
economic, social and educational situations of different stakeholders of the society and these
help in shaping and bringing best out of them (Berliner, 2017). This essay presents
contradictions that existed in America during 1920s and how these helped in shaping this
great country towards positive developments in times to come.
One of the most commonly present contradiction present in 1920s in America was
prosperity and intolerance. It was era when a section of people were enjoying life full luxury
and enjoyments. On the other hand there were many among the population who lead a life of
struggle and misery. Marginalised sections of the society consisted of Africa-Americans who
endured a life of full racism and social bias because of Ku Klux Khan (KKK) re-emergence
(Gamble, 1997). Farm workers and labourers also lived in pitiable conditions. Income of
farmers had increased considerably during last stages of World War, however they saw their
income fall drastically as the decade passed. All these people had to make their end needs by
working overtime and performing their duties in pitiable conditions. Large number of
Americans almost 60% of them lived below the poverty line (BBC, 2018.). Life was a daily
struggle for them and they had to grab every opportunity for earning their living. There was
also a section of society which was on a shopping spree. These people lived a life of
prosperity and self- confidence. They were a dominant force in the society. They bought high
class luxury cars, lived in bungalows and had servants as their helping hands. Contradictory
to those lived in poverty, it was also an era which saw the start of development high rises and
sky scrapers. New York and Chicago were dominant in construction of such buildings.
Emperor state building commonly recognized as a symbol of American growth had its
construction work started in 1920s. That is why this time period is often referred to as
Roaring Twenties (Moore, 2015).

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One of the other notable questions to ponder during 1920s was, whether this was era
of liberalism or a period characterised by conservative values. Early 1920s saw growth, fun
and development which was a symbol of advancement. By the end of decade, saw Great 1929
Wall Street crash which saw change to conservatism. There was a fierce war going on
between reformists and liberals. The battle between the two was also on the religious lines,
with liberal wanting to save their traditions and were having deep faith in the teachings of
bible and its interpretation. Progressives however wanted to new order and wanted to
challenge traditional theories and myths. Traditionalists believed in preserving the morality in
the society while the other side believed in open, free and broadminded social order. School
and educational institutions also became a part in this struggle of views, with debate of what
should be taught in school particularly with regard to evolution of mankind and its theories.
Progressives welcomed new technologies and scientific discoveries which were changing
thinking and practices of living. However the other group was not willing to easily accept this
societal change. In this continuous struggle of ideals, conservative forces became a dominant
force and were more effective in propagating their views and ideologies by the end of the
decade.
These contradiction brought some very positive impacts in the overall structure and
standards of living of the Americans. Intolerance and racism made African-Americans aware
of their rights. Blacks began to recognize their importance in society and were no longer
willing to be treated in any manner which was demeaning and compromised their position in
comparison to whites. In coming decades, this lead to a more equitable and balanced society
where discrimination on the basis economic and social conditions was reduced. However,
prosperity and progressive views in the society led to growth new technologies like radio,
which led better sharing of ideas and better communication. Development of automobile
industry led to increase other ancillary and connected industries such as tourism. It increased

CONTRADICTIONS IN 1920S 4
overall employment of society. Modern thinkers promoted education in the society which
increased employability in more remunerative jobs. Traditionalists helped in preserving the
culture of America in coming decades and their ban on alcohol marginally contributed in
reducing crime in homes and cities.
Contradictions of 1920s show us the importance opposite and conflicting views in any
culture. Contradictory views may result in tensions and scuffles in short run but with passage
to time they result in creating new, reorganized and a better society.

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References
BBC. (2018).The roaring twenties. Retrieved from
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/history/mwh/usa/1920srev1.shtml
Berliner, D. (2017). Contradictions from the intrapersonal to the social, and back. Journal of
Ethnographic Theory. 7(2) 45-49.
Gamble, V. (1997). Under the shadow of tuskegee: african americans and health care.
American Journal of Public Health. 87(11) 1773-1778.
Moore, L. Anything goes: a biography of roaring twenties. London, UK: Atlantic Books
London.