Events, authors and Books Timeline circa NYC, 1920s

Timeline of Books + Authors, and Political Events, circa 1920s NYC

Throughout 1920’s- Harlem Renaissance: Harlem Renaissance was the expansion of African American culture in New York City as well as other parts of the world such as Paris. Harlem Renaissance’s explosion started in 1917 when “all-negro plays,” first written by Ridgely Torrence. Soon after, a new style of music (called Harlem Stride Style), art, poetry, and overall cultural feel of New York City was clear.
Throughout 1920’s (1920-1933)- Prohibition: Prohibition, which was the ban of manufacturing, transportation and sale of alcohol in the US, was first proposed in the late 1910’s, and put into effect in January of 1920.
While prohibition was put into effect throughout the US, many still made, sold and transported alcohol. Specifically in New York City, the concept of “speakeasies,” small clubs where people could openly drink alcohol despite its legal status, were widely available to the public, and tens of thousands were opened.
Because of decreasing popularity in public’s approval, Prohibition was repealed in 1933 by Franklin Roosevelt.
Throughout 1920s (1920-1940) F. Scott Fitzgerald: Fitzgerald was an author of four novels, “This side of Paradise,” “the Beautiful and Damned,” “Tender is the Night,” and “Great Gatsby.” Two of which of his works received commercial success, while his work Great Gatsby, although not widely appreciated in his time, is now considered a literary classic.
1920- Women’s Right to Vote: In 1920, the 19th amendment was ultimately passed after decades of unrest. "The right of citizens of the United States to vote are not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex." This amendment gave women the right to vote, as well as be given property rights.
1929- Stock Market Crash: The most devastating stock market crash of its time. In October of 1929, on black Thursday, stocks plummeted and millions of American’s dollars disappeared into thin air.