Modernization of America

A detailed Summary of Modernization of America

The Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869. The telephone was invented in 1876. The first practical system for a radio was developed in 1895. The Wright brothers created a flying machine in 1903. The first gas powered automobile, the assembly line and the refrigerator were produced in the early 20th century. These are all very important steps in laying the foundation for the modernization of America, but I would argue that the first truly modern period in American history would have to be the 1920s.

The 1920s brought a capitalistic population who, as a nation, leaned toward isolationism. In two main fields, the 1920s modernized American society to reflect the America of the 21st century more than any era before it. These fields are media and business.

Along with a new decade came a new attitude from the media. By 1922 there were 22 magazines in circulation and by the end of the 1920s, 40% of Americans owned a radio. The first tabloid magazine appeared in 1919. The media that we know today spawned from this growth in the 20s. This new type of mass med

ia permitted the spreading of national trends or obsessions, such as flagpole sitting. A 21st century equivalent to this type of rather bizarre behavior of national trends could be the Christmas "Tickle me Elmo" or "Furby" craze over the last few years. The national connection that the mass media provided also allowed for fashion to become important and for heroes in the world of sports to emerge.

Efficiency became a main issue in factories. Henry Ford could produce an automobile in 93 minutes as opposed to the fourteen hours it took him before. This also allowed him to sell the automobiles for a mere $295, that is, $700 less than the cost of the automobiles in 1908. The availability of the automobiles prompted both state and federal governments to pour millions of dollars into building new roads. This new industry also opened up new markets in oil, steel, rubber, glass and tools.

Advertising and the availability of financing brought about a consumer revolution. The new consumer products appealed to people's social ambitions. Very few of the products were necessities, but eventually, participati

Some common words found in the essay are:
Henry Ford, Transcontinental Railroad, Bara Advertising, Elmo Furby, Mary Pickford, american history, modernization america, truly modern, media business, 21st century, national trends, consumer revolution, mass media,

Approximate Word count = 750
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: History

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Modernization of America

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