History of the Jazz Age

The Jazz Age was about more than just jazz.
It was a period for the cultural expansion of music, dance, fashion, and lifestyle, taking place during the 1920's. It was most prevalent in the US.

Jazz music was created by African Americans, but was widely accepted among middle class white Americans. Radio greatly helped jazz spread into the mainstream, and jazz clubs were popular locations for hearing this music live. Dances such as the Charleston went along with it. Famous jazz musicians of the time include Loius Armstrong, Billie Holliday, and Ella Fitzgerald.

Fashion took a high and scandalous turn, particularly for women, during this decade. Women went from full-covering dresses to shorter skirts, dropped waists, and more playful styles. Many dresses included fringe or beads. The women's suffrage movement was a large factor in this newfound independent way of dress. Men's fashion was classy and stylized, with various hat and suit styles commonly worn.

The 1920's was a time of prohibition, and Speakeasies were anything but scarce. These establishments of illicit alcohol, dancing, and general shenanigans were frequented by many and enjoyed by all. The mafia payed off police officers so they could keep these bars running.

The jazz age, which was a time of great cultural progression, came to a screeching halt when the Great Depression hit. It remains a significant point in history that improved our country and culture.