Effects of Cliques in The 1920s

The 1920s was a time of great social change and upheaval in the United States. One of the most significant changes during this time was the rise of cliques and the impact they had on society. In this essay, we will explore the effects of cliques in the 1920s and how they shaped the culture of the time.

In the 1920s, the concept of cliques became increasingly prevalent in American society. As the country experienced a period of economic prosperity and cultural revolution, people began to form social groups based on shared interests, backgrounds, and values. These cliques often played a significant role in shaping the social dynamics of the time, influencing everything from fashion and music to politics and social norms.

One of the most notable effects of cliques in the 1920s was the way they contributed to the creation of distinct subcultures within American society. From the glamorous flappers of the jazz age to the rebellious bootleggers of the Prohibition era, cliques played a crucial role in defining and popularizing these subcultures. As a result, the 1920s became a decade of vibrant and diverse social movements, each with its own set of values and beliefs.

Furthermore, cliques in the 1920s also had a profound impact on the way people socialized and interacted with one another. In an era marked by rapid urbanization and industrialization, cliques provided a sense of community and belonging for many Americans. Whether it was the speakeasy culture of the jazz age or the literary salons of the Harlem Renaissance, cliques provided a space for like-minded individuals to come together and express themselves in ways that were often not possible in mainstream society.

Moreover, the influence of cliques in the 1920s extended beyond social and cultural realms and into the political and economic spheres. As various cliques gained influence and power, they began to shape public opinion and influence policy decisions. For example, the rise of organized crime during Prohibition was in part fueled by the formation of powerful criminal cliques that operated outside the bounds of the law. Similarly, the social and political movements of the time, such as the women's suffrage movement and the civil rights movement, were often driven by the collective action of cliques and subcultures.

In conclusion, the effects of cliques in the 1920s were far-reaching and significant, shaping the social, cultural, political, and economic landscape of the time. From the creation of distinct subcultures to the influence on public opinion and policy, cliques played a crucial role in defining the decade and shaping the future of American society. As we reflect on this period in history, it is important to recognize the impact of cliques and the role they played in shaping the world we live in today.

Bibliography:

• Fass, Paula S. "The Twenties: Cliques." American Youth. New York University Press, 1977.
• Kazin, Alfred. On Native Grounds: An Interpretation of Modern American Prose Literature. Harcourt, Brace, 1942.