Warning Signs Before the Crash During the late 1920s, America appeared to be enjoying one of the greatest periods of prosperity in its history. Factories produced record amounts of goods, new technologies filled homes and businesses, and millions of Americans believed the future would only get brighter. Yet beneath the excitement, some economists, bankers, and business leaders noticed troubling signs. While stock prices continued to climb higher and higher, the nation's econo

My Name is Andrew Mellon: Banker, Industrialist, and Secretary of the Treasury I was one of the wealthiest businessmen in America and the Secretary of the Treasury during the Roaring Twenties. I helped build banks, invest in growing industries, and shape the nation's economic policies. Many people praised me for helping create prosperity, while others blamed me for favoring the wealthy. For much of my life, I believed deeply that economic success came from hard work, investme

Myth of Universal Prosperity The 1920s are often remembered as one of the most exciting decades in American history. Radios filled homes with music and news, automobiles crowded the roads, movies attracted millions of viewers, and businesses seemed to grow richer every year. Newspapers celebrated a booming economy, and many Americans believed the nation had entered a new age of endless prosperity. Yet beneath the excitement and bright headlines was a very different story. Whi

My Name is Charles E. Mitchell: Banker and Champion of the Stock Market Boom I became one of the most powerful bankers in the United States during the Roaring Twenties. I was born in 1877 in Illinois and grew up during a time when America was transforming from a nation of farms and small towns into a land of giant industries, railroads, and corporations. As a young man, I admired business leaders who built great enterprises and believed that prosperity came from opportunity,

From Postwar Recovery to Prosperity The boom began during a time when Americans were eager to move forward after the hardships of World War I. The war had ended in 1918, and millions of soldiers returned home hoping to build better lives. Factories that had produced weapons and military supplies shifted back to making products for everyday consumers. Although the nation experienced a brief economic downturn in 1920 and 1921, businesses quickly adapted. By the middle of the de

My Name is H. L. Mencken: Journalist, Critic, and Commentator of American Life I was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1880 and spent most of my life there. From a young age, I loved books, newspapers, and strong opinions. While many people followed traditions without question, I was constantly asking why things were done a certain way. Journalism gave me the perfect opportunity to observe society, challenge assumptions, and write about the world around me. Finding My Voice A