Crisis of identity, 1920–1945 (A-level only) revision notes

Crisis of Identity in the USA, 1920–1945

Overview

The period from 1920 to 1945 in the United States was marked by profound transformations that challenged and reshaped national identity. The aftermath of World War I, the Great Depression, and the Second World War all contributed to a complex interplay of social, economic, and political factors.

Key Themes

1. Domestic Politics: The presidencies of Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover reflected a conservative approach that prioritized business interests, yet the onset of the Depression revealed the limitations of this ideology.
2. FDR and the New Deals: Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs sparked debates about the role of the federal government in economic recovery and social welfare, highlighting a shift towards greater government intervention.
3. Economic Fluctuations: The transition from the economic boom of the 1920s to the bust of the Great Depression illustrated structural weaknesses in the economy, while the war effort catalyzed recovery and industrial growth.
4. Social and Cultural Developments: The Jazz Age represented a cultural renaissance, but also exposed tensions regarding social values, particularly concerning women's roles and the failure of Prohibition.
5. Divisions in Society: The era was characterized by significant social, regional, and ethnic divisions, including the urban-rural divide and the rise of racial tensions exemplified by the Ku Klux Klan.
6. International Relations: The U.S. grappled with isolationism in the interwar years, but FDR's leadership marked a shift towards engagement in global affairs, culminating in involvement in World War II.