1920s1930s

The 1920s and 1930s is a period that marks the transition from the immediate postwar world of the 1910s to mid‑20th‑century developments. The 1920s, often called the Roaring Twenties, saw rapid economic growth, technological change, and cultural experimentation. Mass production and electrification increased the availability of new goods, while automobiles, radio, and cinema created a shared popular culture. Social norms shifted in many places, with women gaining suffrage in several countries and new artistic movements transforming literature, music, and the arts. Politically, liberal democracies faced strains even as some regions enjoyed stability, and international relations were shaped by postwar treaties and emerging powers. The decade ended with the 1929 stock market crash and the onset of the Great Depression.

The 1930s were dominated by economic crisis and political tension. The Great Depression produced widespread unemployment, deflation, and bank failures, with effects across the industrialized and agrarian world. Governments experimented with policy responses, including public works, monetary reform, social welfare programs, and, in some cases, greater state intervention in the economy. In the United States, the New Deal sought to stabilize finance, revive industry, and provide relief. International trade contracted amid protectionist measures, contributing to economic strain elsewhere. The decade also witnessed significant political developments, including the rise of extremist movements in some countries and ongoing struggles over modernization and reform. Despite hardship, cultural production continued, influencing film, literature, and the arts and reflecting themes of crisis, resilience, and social change.

Together, the 1920s and 1930s reshaped economic theory, governance, and international relations, leaving a lasting impact on political and cultural life in many regions.