Impact of Automobiles of 1920s

Mrs. Gaska
English 3B
14 April 2013
Impact of Automobile In 1920s The automobile. This one introduction changed America’s history forever, not only economically but socially as well by exploding business opportunities and broadening the independence of all ages. America’s economy propagated leaps and bounds during the 1920s due to the introduction of the automobile by expanding the horizons of business tenfold. Firstly, the automobile industry gave way to jobs never seen before. In regards to new business, “New jobs due to the impact of the automobile such as fast food, city/highway construction, state police, convenient stores, auto repair shops, and auto part shops” (Brancheau). The new availabilities in professions enabled a more diverse job sector and a proliferation of career choices. Further more, another huge area of expansion that boosted the economy was the agricultural industry. The new accommodations for farmers were countless; “Farmers can ship easily and economically by truck and can drive to town when it is convenient” (Brancheau). The easy accessibility of produce drove the supply through the roof, which in return caused prices to fall and became easier for everyday folk to buy a bigger bulk. Lastly, ease and speed were two characteristics businesses needed to hold in order to keep pace with the new American family. In regards to food, “Drivers wanted cheap, relatively fast food so they could be on their way in a hurry, which was answered by diners” (ushistory.org). Throughout America’s history, few inventions have had such a positive impact on the economy as the automobile, creating jobs, increasing agricultural abilities, and creating brand new sectors in business. The 1920s social scene was made possible by one thing, and one thing only and that is the automobile. For example, a reverse in the move to the city trend occurred, as people were able to live anywhere and still get to the city to work. Moving out to the outskirts became normal, “Has radically changed city life by accelerating the outward expansion of population into the suburbs” (ushistory.org). Having the easy access to city life without actually living in the city became extremely appealing to families. Additionally, automobiles granted the ability to travel further distances in much less time than ever before. When talking about far travels, “Freedom of choice encouraged many family vacations to places previously impossible to reach” (Brancheau). Vacations became important for families during the 20s and acted as a great bonding experience along with entertainment. Lastly, parents, teenagers and young adults were able to feel this newfound autonomy. Being alone changed a lot, “Teens gained more and more independence with driving, and initiated more freedom among dating couples” (ushistory.org). The new indulgences felt by teens would continue to snowball into the counterculture seen throughout the 20s. No social order was held after the automobile came around by making things achievable never before feasible. All in all, the automobile fabricated the social and economic stratums of America during the 1920s. Changing any previously held traditions, creating all new possibilities for every age increasing freedoms and starting the roaring 20s. As time continued, the automobile has grown into a cornerstone of America and manages everyday life of modern families. ushistory.org, . "The Age of the Automobile." U.S. History Online Textbook. ushistory.org. Web. 15 Apr 2013. <http://www.ushistory.org/us/46a.asp>.

Brancheau, John. "The History of the Automobile." The Impact of the Automobile In the 20th Century. University of Colorado Boulder. Web. 15 Apr 2013.