New Era

Definition

The New Era refers to the period in the United States following World War I, characterized by economic growth, increased consumerism, and significant social changes. This era saw a shift in American society as people moved away from traditional values, embracing modernity and innovation, particularly in the realms of technology, culture, and lifestyle. The economic boom during this time laid the groundwork for a consumer-driven economy, where mass production and advertising transformed how Americans viewed consumption.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Era began in the aftermath of World War I, as America emerged as a global economic leader with a booming economy.
2. Technological advancements during this time included the rise of automobiles, household appliances, and radios, which changed daily life and leisure activities.
3. The emergence of advertising and marketing strategies during the New Era played a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior and creating demand for new products.
4. Cultural changes included the flapper movement, jazz music, and increased participation of women in public life, reflecting a shift toward modernity.
5. The economic prosperity of the New Era ultimately set the stage for the Great Depression at the end of the decade, highlighting the volatility of consumer-driven economies.

Review Questions

• How did technological advancements during the New Era influence American society?
  • Technological advancements such as automobiles, radios, and household appliances significantly transformed American society by changing how people lived and interacted. The widespread availability of cars enabled greater mobility and fostered suburban growth. Additionally, radios became a central part of American homes, facilitating shared cultural experiences through music and news. These innovations not only improved daily convenience but also contributed to a culture increasingly defined by consumerism and modernity.
• In what ways did advertising shape consumer behavior in the New Era?
  • Advertising emerged as a powerful tool in the New Era, fundamentally altering consumer behavior by creating desires for products that consumers may not have previously considered essential. With the rise of mass media such as magazines and radio broadcasts, companies began to target specific audiences through persuasive messages. This strategy not only increased sales but also influenced social norms around consumption, as people began to equate personal success with material wealth and ownership.
• Evaluate the impact of the New Era on women's roles in American society during the 1920s.
  • The New Era had a profound impact on women's roles in American society during the 1920s, marked by increased independence and participation in public life. Women gained the right to vote with the 19th Amendment in 1920, which empowered them politically. Culturally, the flapper movement symbolized a break from traditional norms as women embraced more liberated lifestyles, including fashion choices that rejected Victorian constraints. These changes laid groundwork for future feminist movements by challenging societal expectations and advocating for women's rights across various aspects of life.

Related terms

Consumer Culture: A social and economic order that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts, becoming a defining feature of American life in the New Era.

Roaring Twenties: The decade of the 1920s in the United States, marked by economic prosperity, cultural dynamism, and significant changes in social norms, which contributed to the New Era.

Assembly Line: A manufacturing process that became widespread during the New Era, enabling mass production and making goods more accessible and affordable to consumers.