American History

Although some Americans embraced the social and cultural changes of the 1920s, many rejected them. One of the changes that met the most resistance was the cultural change brought about by the Great Migration. Although African Americans in the south now had their freedom, many southerners refused to hire them, because of racist ideologies and cultural stigma. Therefore over one million African Americans migrated from the South to the north in search of better opportunities. Americans in the north rejected this change, because they believed that the influx of new workers would harm their chances to negotiate pay and benefits.
    On the other hand, many white Americans were beginning to want to reach out to African Americans.  Prominent black leaders like Marcus Garvey rejected white handouts, refusing to believe that the people of his race were lower than whites and needed their handouts. He rejected cultural movements that focused on whites propping up blacks and encouraged his people to see the beauty in their own race. He even launched a back-to-Africa movement in a complete rejection of white culture.
    Another social change that many Americans rejected was prohibition. Americans who feared that alcohol was harming their country lead massive protests against the substances in the early 1900s. At the forefront of the fight were The Anti-Saloon League and The Womens Christian Temperance Union. They linked alcohol to many social ills, including child beating and spousal abuse. Many businessmen were also concerned about alcohols negative effect on the workforce.
    Nevertheless, many rejected prohibition. Those in the brewing industry argued that alcohol taxation would  help war efforts. Other Americans rejected the idea that alcohol was evil and celebrated it as part of their culture. Therefore, Americans continued to smuggle alcohol into the states. Bootlegging skyrocketed. Meanwhile, many saloon owners opened speak-easies  to continue serving customers (Mintz).