A History of the American People - Assignment Example

            Though the American economy faced a few challenges brought about by the end of WWI, the then leadership put in place appropriate strategies, which enabled the US to emerge as the most formidable economy at that time. The period similarly came with a lot of inventions, notably Henry Ford’s breakthrough in the automobile sector of the industry, and the introduction of the radio, which was warmly embraced across various parts of the US (Faragher et.al 597). American literature was not left behind either as works from writers such as Willer Cather ensured that it earned its place on the global map. A similar case can be said of the American music industry, where jazz did it all for many. The prospect of ready-made clothing as well as canned foods made life easier for everyone.

            In as much as the roaring twenties returned the situation of normalcy to American citizens, a part of the American population was negatively affected. Due to the efficiency and high productivity of the machines, there was low labor demand, a situation that made it difficult for a considerable section of the population to earn their living as their source of income had been cut. The food sector of the economy was similarly affected due to a reduction in prices which was brought about by high food production, which exceeded the demand. The period made it very difficult for small-scale farmers to exploit their full potential due to the costly machines that could only be afforded by wealthy farm owners.

            American citizens who had sufficient funds for investment ventured into successful businesses that accorded them good returns. On the other hand, low-income earners continued to live from hand to mouth. Due to this, social classes emerged within the United States, the wealthy citizens interacted with their equals, a situation that was similarly witnessed among low-income earners. Due to differences in social class, the available amenities were not shared equally as some people were able to afford basic human necessities including food, shelter, and clothing. Quality education could only be afforded by a section of the population, a situation that was similarly observed when it came to quality healthcare (Faragher et.al 616). It was sad to witness how Americans lost love for their fellow citizens, those who resided within urban regions regarded themselves as better placed than those from the rural regions, a situation that made several people move into the urban centers from rural areas; “Even with the curtailing of European organizations, big cities attracted a Kaleidoscopic variety of migrants: white people from small towns and farms (Faragher et.al 619).”

            Over and above, in as much as the roaring twenties played a critical role in establishing the position of the US globally, it did not present an equal situation for every American citizen