Increased Productivity: Technological advancements and innovations, such as the assembly line, led to increased productivity in various industries, including manufacturing and agriculture. As a result, goods were produced more efficiently and quickly, leading to reduced working hours and increased productivity per hour.
Rise of Consumer Culture: The 1920s saw a substantial increase in consumerism, fueled by mass production, advertising, and installment plans. This consumer culture encouraged people to spend more on goods and services, including leisure activities like movies, sports events, and traveling.
Changing Work Patterns: The traditional nine-to-five, six-day workweek began to shift during the Roaring Twenties. Many companies and industries adopted a five-day workweek and shorter workdays, allowing workers more free time for leisure pursuits.
Greater Access to Transportation: The widespread adoption of automobiles and the expansion of paved roads made it easier and more convenient for Americans to travel and explore. Cars allowed people to go to parks, beaches, recreational areas, and other entertainment venues farther from their homes.
Growth of Recreation and Leisure Industries: The growing leisure time created a surge in demand for recreational activities and entertainment. This led to the growth of industries such as sports, leisure travel, music, cinema, and tourism, providing more options for leisure activities and entertainment.
Shifting Social Norms: The 1920s witnessed a shift in societal attitudes and cultural norms, with a growing emphasis on leisure, recreation, and personal fulfillment. This cultural change made it more socially acceptable for people to engage in leisure activities and enjoy their free time.
These factors combined to create an environment where Americans suddenly had more leisure time available, leading to a thriving culture of entertainment and leisure activities during the Roaring Twenties.