Comsumer Society

A detailed Summary of Comsumer Society

Out of the ashes of World War 1, a new world emerged. This new era in history manifested itself in different ways throughout the globe but in almost every nation, society changed in the wake of the most devastating war humanity had endured up until that point. Even before the war, industrial revolutions were speeding up the economies of most major countries, fundamentally changing their economic systems. In America, kicking off with the 1920's a consumer based society began to take hold. Throughout the next 30 years, the modern consumer society matured through a process of trials and tribulations. By the 1950's, it had evolved into the system that we know today.

On the heels of a short depression directly proceeding the war, American society experienced the boom of the 20's. Industry grew in leaps and bounds as new technologies became part of the American experience. With an average 33% increase in salaries, Americans found themselves with a disposable income and they were buying up these new products at a tremendous rate. The home, which in years past had been responsible for producing much of its own goods became consumer based, relying on industry to supply more and more of its necessities

This depression was in no way limited to America. All over the world, countries experienced the same plight but unlike America, the political systems in some of the countries collapsed. While Italy and Germany resorted to fascism, capitalism and democracy held on here under the watchful eye of FDR and the New Deal. Although it was seriously repressed, the consumer society born in the 20's did not die. Radio and film industries became even more vital in this decade (approximately 65% of Americans attended movies on a weekly basis), providing people with an escape from difficult times. The World's Fair, always a popular event during the 1930's, showcased the advances in technology that were still occurring, even though it would be a few years until these new technologies would become mainstream.

Soon enough, America would come upon a whole new set of complications, but during the dawning of the consumer age, Americans had proved their mettle. With many lessons learned, Americans stood on the brink of a brave new world.

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Inevitably, the feverish pace of the economy had to check it self, and check itself it did. In the 20's, the economy entered uncharted territory. With a distinct lack of government controls, the economic machine grew like a cancer and became too large to support itself. Luxury eventually turned into excess and the bottom fell out under the weight of too much production.

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Approximate Word count = 998
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

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