History That Doesn't Suck

169: An Epilogue to the 1920s: Youth culture, The Great Gatsby, and more with Professor Sarah Churchwell

Nov 4, 2024
Join Professor Sarah Churchwell, an expert in 1920s American culture, as she explores the vibrant youth culture and the emergence of Hollywood during the Roaring Twenties. Delve into the themes of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 'The Great Gatsby,' and discover how its explorations of illusion versus reality remain relevant today. Churchwell connects historical shifts to modern consumerism, shedding light on the generational divide and the evolution of media that shaped cultural landscapes then and now.
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INSIGHT

Origins of "Roaring Twenties"

  • "Roaring Twenties" initially described young men's wild behavior.
  • It later evolved to represent the entire decade's energetic atmosphere.
INSIGHT

The Jazz Age

  • F. Scott Fitzgerald popularized the term "Jazz Age," initially a derogatory term.
  • He transformed it into a positive label, reflecting youthful rebellion.
INSIGHT

1920s Generational Shift

  • Several factors created a generational gap in the 1920s, including increased education, car ownership, and women's suffrage.
  • These changes gave young people more autonomy and fueled a distinct youth culture.
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