Flapper

Definition

A flapper was a young woman in the 1920s who embraced a new lifestyle that challenged traditional norms of femininity, often characterized by a distinct style, behavior, and attitude. Flappers symbolized the 'New Woman' of the era, breaking free from restrictive societal expectations by adopting a more liberated approach to fashion, sexuality, and social life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flappers were known for their iconic fashion choices, including short bobbed haircuts, knee-length dresses with dropped waists, and bold accessories that emphasized a more youthful and playful aesthetic.
2. The flapper movement coincided with women's suffrage in the United States, as women gained the right to vote in 1920, leading to increased visibility and influence in society.
3. Flappers often frequented jazz clubs and dance halls, showcasing their love for new music and carefree dancing, which helped redefine social norms around women's behavior in public spaces.
4. They also engaged in behaviors that were considered scandalous at the time, such as smoking, drinking alcohol in public, and openly discussing sexual matters, further challenging traditional expectations.
5. The flapper culture faced backlash from conservative groups who viewed their lifestyle as a moral decline; however, they remained a symbol of modernity and liberation during the Roaring Twenties.

Review Questions

• How did flappers contribute to the perception of the 'New Woman' in the 1920s?
  • Flappers contributed significantly to the perception of the 'New Woman' by embodying a lifestyle that rejected traditional gender roles. Their fashion choices and behaviors represented a newfound freedom for women, showcasing independence and defiance against societal expectations. This shift was evident in their participation in social activities like dancing at jazz clubs and their embrace of modern fashion, positioning them as icons of progress and change during that era.
• Analyze how the cultural climate of the Jazz Age influenced the behavior and image of flappers.
  • The Jazz Age created an energetic cultural environment that directly influenced the behavior and image of flappers. Jazz music's popularity provided a backdrop for lively social gatherings where flappers could express themselves freely through dance and music. This era's emphasis on spontaneity and celebration mirrored the flapper's rejection of constraints, leading to a distinctive identity that challenged previous notions of femininity and societal decorum.
• Evaluate the impact of Prohibition on flapper culture and its implications for women's roles in society during the 1920s.
  • Prohibition had a profound impact on flapper culture by encouraging women to seek out clandestine venues known as speakeasies where they could drink alcohol freely. This defiance not only reinforced their rebellious spirit but also signified a shift in social dynamics as women began to assert their rights to enjoy leisure activities typically reserved for men. The emergence of flappers during this time highlights how legal restrictions can paradoxically empower social movements by fostering alternative spaces where women could express autonomy and challenge existing gender roles.

Related terms

New Woman: A term used to describe the emerging modern female identity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by greater independence, education, and participation in public life.

Jazz Age: A cultural period in the 1920s known for its vibrant music scene, especially jazz, which influenced social dynamics and provided a soundtrack for the flapper lifestyle.

Prohibition: The legal ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in the United States from 1920 to 1933, which led to underground speakeasies and became an integral part of flapper culture.