Activity Overview
Understanding the economic culture of the 1920s is fundamental to understanding what caused the Great Depression and why the effects were so disastrous. With a strong stock market, expanded employment, exploding industries, rising credit, and a technological boom, citizens in 1920s America experienced tremendous prosperity. However, this same prosperity would eventually become a major cause of America’s Great Depression. In this introductory activity, students will examine the many reasons for economic success post World War I.
Students may consider examining the following topics:
- Technological Advances
- Consumerism
- The Stock Market Boom
- Buying on Credit
- Rise in Productivity
- Expanding Industry
Extended Activity
Have students identify the major economic factors of today’s markets, particularly the American economy before the 2008 recession. Students can identify and explain modern technological improvements, the nature of the stock market, improving and expanding industries, and employment figures. Students should grasp what America’s economy is like today and why it could both continue to boom, or eventually bust.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard examining the 1920s economic boom.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the different factors that contributed to the economic boom.
- Summarize each factor in the description boxes.
- Create an illustration for each cell using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Understanding the economic culture of the 1920s is fundamental to understanding what caused the Great Depression and why the effects were so disastrous. With a strong stock market, expanded employment, exploding industries, rising credit, and a technological boom, citizens in 1920s America experienced tremendous prosperity. However, this same prosperity would eventually become a major cause of America’s Great Depression. In this introductory activity, students will examine the many reasons for economic success post World War I.
Students may consider examining the following topics:
- Technological Advances
- Consumerism
- The Stock Market Boom
- Buying on Credit
- Rise in Productivity
- Expanding Industry
Extended Activity
Have students identify the major economic factors of today’s markets, particularly the American economy before the 2008 recession. Students can identify and explain modern technological improvements, the nature of the stock market, improving and expanding industries, and employment figures. Students should grasp what America’s economy is like today and why it could both continue to boom, or eventually bust.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard examining the 1920s economic boom.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the different factors that contributed to the economic boom.
- Summarize each factor in the description boxes.
- Create an illustration for each cell using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about The American Economy in the 1920s
Engage Students with a 1920s Economy Simulation
Create a classroom simulation where students role-play as workers, business owners, and consumers in the 1920s. Assign each student a role such as factory worker, banker, or investor, and give them specific tasks and 'money' to manage. This hands-on experience helps students understand economic concepts like credit, investment, and industry growth in a memorable way.
Introduce Key Economic Terms Before Starting
Begin by defining important vocabulary such as 'consumerism,' 'credit,' 'stock market,' and 'productivity.' Provide examples relevant to the 1920s and today to help students make connections and feel more confident as they explore the topic.
Use Primary Sources to Spark Discussion
Show students photos, ads, and newspaper headlines from the 1920s. Ask them what these sources reveal about everyday life, technology, and the economy. This promotes critical thinking and makes history feel real.
Encourage Group Reflection on Economic Lessons
Have students share and discuss their storyboard findings in small groups. Prompt them to consider what economic factors led to both growth and risk, supporting deeper understanding through peer interaction.
Frequently Asked Questions about The American Economy in the 1920s
What caused the economic boom in the United States during the 1920s?
The economic boom of the 1920s in the United States was fueled by technological advances, increased consumerism, a soaring stock market, the rise of credit purchases, and expanding industrial production. These factors led to widespread prosperity and higher employment.
How did buying on credit impact the American economy in the 1920s?
Buying on credit allowed more Americans to purchase goods they couldn't immediately afford, driving demand and boosting the economy. However, it also led to increased personal debt and economic vulnerability, which contributed to the severity of the Great Depression.
Why is understanding the 1920s economy important for students?
Understanding the 1920s economy helps students grasp the root causes of the Great Depression and recognize patterns that can lead to economic booms or busts. It provides valuable context for analyzing both past and present economic challenges.
What are some simple classroom activities to teach students about the 1920s economic boom?
Teachers can have students create storyboards highlighting key economic factors, compare the 1920s economy to today's markets, or analyze the impact of technology, consumerism, and credit. These activities encourage critical thinking and engagement.
What similarities exist between the 1920s economic boom and today’s economy?
Both the 1920s and today's economy feature rapid technological advancements, increased consumer spending, and a reliance on credit. Understanding these similarities can help students evaluate potential risks and benefits facing the modern economy.
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