The History of the Twentieth Century

After Lenin's death, the Soviet Union faced immense challenges in defining socialism. Stalin ended the New Economic Policy to push for aggressive industrialization through the Five-Year Plan. This period saw significant power struggles within the Bolshevik party, particularly between Trotsky and Stalin. The catastrophic famine of the early 1930s led to millions of deaths and sparked debates about government accountability. Meanwhile, the evolution of radio technology emerged, intertwining with the state's responsibilities during these crises.

The death of Sun Yat-sen came at an inopportune moment, just as the Nationalists were poised to regain control over China. Chiang Kai-shek emerged as the Party's new leader. He ended the United Front and attacked and killed Communists.

By 1922, the Lloyd George government was challenged on many fronts, which led to a general election and a new prime minister, Andrew Bonar Law. Perhaps the biggest challenge was debt repayment to the United States.

Prohibition came as something of a surprise, and there was widespread flouting of the law. A new drinking culture emerged, and criminal gangs made more money, and became more violent, than ever.

By the Revolutionary era, male British colonists in North America were among the heaviest drinkers the world had ever seen. 150 years later, alcoholic beverages were banned in the US and Canada.

Hardly anyone knew anything about Calvin Coolidge when he became President, yet he managed to run an Administration that accomplished much and remained popular.

Dive into the Teapot Dome scandal, the biggest corruption scandal in US history, which led to the first conviction of a cabinet secretary. Discover the ethical dilemmas surrounding government oil leases and the investigations that eroded public trust. Explore the intertwining of political and sports corruption, drawing parallels with the infamous Black Sox scandal. Uncover the scandalous legacy of President Warren Harding and the tumultuous aftermath for key figures like Albert Fall. Finally, delve into the mysterious tragedies surrounding the Doheny family, revealing personal tales linked to larger historical themes.

By 1923, evidence was mounting of scandal within the Harding Administration. The President did not acknowledge this publicly, but privately he agonized about it. It may have been a factor in his death in August.

Dive into the world of jazz, where music transcends boundaries and connects cultures. Explore the rise of Italian American musicians in a racially charged America, highlighting Nick LaRocca's journey in the Original Dixieland Jazz Band. Discover how jazz exploded in popularity post-World War I, driven by innovations like the phonograph. Uncover George Gershwin's genius as he blends classical and popular music, contributing to the evolution of jazz. Experience the dynamic transformation of music and its cultural significance in the 20th century.

Jazz has its roots in a number of other musical forms: band music, spirituals, blues, and ragtime.