Roaring Twenties: Economic Prosperity 1920s — Reading Comprehension

The 1920s in the United States was a decade of dramatic economic growth and social change, often called the "Roaring Twenties." After World War I ended in 1918, American factories shifted from producing war supplies to making consumer goods. This transition resulted in booming businesses, rising wages, and a surge of new products that changed how people lived.

One important factor in the era's prosperity was the spread of mass production, especially in the automobile industry. Henry Ford’s use of the assembly line allowed his company to make cars more efficiently and at lower cost. As Ford explained, "We are going to get a car to the multitudes." This quote showed Ford’s goal of making cars affordable for ordinary Americans, not just the wealthy. By 1927, over 15 million Model T cars had been sold, making travel and work easier for millions of families.

The rise of consumer culture was a defining feature of the decade. Americans bought radios, refrigerators, and washing machines on installment plans, which allowed people to pay for expensive items over time. However, while many celebrated this new way of life, some worried about the risks of buying on credit. Critics argued that easy credit could lead to debt and financial trouble if people lost their jobs or the economy slowed down.

The prosperity of the 1920s was not shared equally. For some groups, especially African Americans, immigrants, and farmers, opportunities remained limited. Many rural farmers struggled with falling crop prices and increasing debt. At the same time, African Americans faced racial discrimination in hiring and pay. Despite these challenges, the Harlem Renaissance—a cultural movement led by Black artists and writers—flourished in New York City, showing that creativity and hope could thrive even during difficult times.

While the economy boomed, some Americans worried about the rapid changes. Traditional values were challenged as young people flocked to cities, women gained the right to vote, and new music like jazz became popular. These changes led to conflicts between modern and traditional ways of life. Some conservative groups tried to slow down the pace of change by supporting laws like Prohibition, which banned the sale of alcohol. Prohibition, however, led to unintended consequences such as the rise of organized crime and illegal speakeasies.

By the late 1920s, signs of trouble began to appear. Stock market speculation increased, with many people investing money they did not have. Factories produced more goods than people could buy, leading to surpluses and layoffs. In 1929, the stock market crashed, marking the end of the Roaring Twenties and the beginning of the Great Depression.

The Roaring Twenties left a complex legacy. The decade brought innovation, higher standards of living, and greater freedoms for many Americans. Yet, it also revealed deep inequalities and tensions that would shape the country for years to come. Studying this period helps us understand how rapid economic change can both improve society and create new problems.

Interesting Fact: The first radio commercial aired in 1922, launching a new era of advertising and mass communication.

When did World War I end?

Who made cars affordable with the assembly line?

What major event ended the Roaring Twenties?

Why did some Americans worry about installment plans?

What was one effect of Prohibition?

What did the Harlem Renaissance show?

The Roaring Twenties brought only positive changes. True or false?

What does 'innovation' mean in the passage?