American History Tellers Roaring Twenties | Anxious Decade | 5
Oct 27, 2021
Michael E. Parrish, Professor Emeritus at UC San Diego and author of Anxious Decades, dives deep into the Roaring Twenties. He discusses the allure and fallout of Ponzi schemes that captivated countless investors. Parrish expertly examines the era's cultural vibrancy alongside rising anxieties, spotlighting evolving gender roles and the push for civil rights amidst urbanization. He connects the get-rich mentality of the decade with today’s economic issues, reminding listeners of the lessons learned from this transformative period in American history.
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Ponzi's Infamous Scheme
- Charles Ponzi promised a 50% return quickly by exploiting international mail coupons.
- His scheme used money from new investors to pay old ones, symbolizing 1920s financial recklessness.
Urban-Rural Cultural Clash
- The 1920s sparked anxiety as modern urban culture surged, threatening rural dominance.
- Rural Americans felt marginalized as cities gained cultural and political power.
Women’s Movement Momentum
- Women fought to enshrine gender equality and birth control, despite legal and societal barriers.
- The 1920s marked a peak of women's activism for legal, political, and reproductive rights.
