History by the Numbers Season 1 Episode 6 THE ROARING 20s
- January 14, 2022
- 46 min
As the United States emerged from World War I in 1918, it entered a period of significant social, cultural, and economic change that would define the following decade. Episode six of History by the Numbers season one explores the Roaring Twenties, a time of cultural and artistic flourishing, but also one of economic and political upheaval.
The episode begins with a broad overview of the era, highlighting the rise of jazz music, flapper fashion, and prohibition, which made alcohol illegal and led to an increase in organized crime. The show then delves deeper into the economic factors that drove many of the changes of the 1920s, such as the growth of consumer culture and the birth of the stock market.
One of the most fascinating segments of the episode focuses on the impact of advertising on the average American during the 1920s. Through interviews with historians and experts, viewers learn how advertisers used new techniques to sell products to a public that was increasingly obsessed with the latest trends and fads. From cigarettes to cars to makeup, advertisers were able to create a culture of consumption that would shape American society in the decades to come.
Another key theme of the episode is the rise of women in American society during the 1920s. With the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote, women's role in society began to shift dramatically. The episode explores the growing prominence of women in the workforce, as well as the rise of women's sports and fashion.
Finally, the episode takes a close look at the stock market crash of 1929, which brought about a swift end to the Roaring Twenties. Through a combination of expert analysis and archival footage, viewers gain a sense of the panic and uncertainty that swept the country in the aftermath of the crash.
Overall, episode six of History by the Numbers season one offers a fascinating look at one of the most important decades in American history. Through a combination of expert analysis, archival footage, and compelling storytelling, the show sheds light on the social, cultural, and economic factors that shaped the Roaring Twenties and set the stage for the years to come.