...“Langston Hughes was first recognized as an important literary figure during the 1920s, a period known as the "Harlem Renaissance" because of the number of emerging black writers.”(Poetry Foundation) The 20’s started out with the conclusion of WW1, and the United States ratified the 18th Amendment (Volstead Act (National Prohibition Act). The country’s taste for alcohol did not diminish though, which led to many American’s frequenting “speakeasies”. The Roaring Twenties, or better know as the “Jazz Age” was a time in our countries history that brought forth the music and poets of the colored man. It became almost “respectable” to not only listen to, but also frequent establishments that embellished this type of music. In 1923 Howard Carter is credited with the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s Tomb in Egypt. The same year, “The Great Kanto earthquake devastates Tokyo and Yokohama in 1923 leaving over 100,000 fatalities.”(Peoples History) the following year, 1924; the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is held in New York City. Ellis Island closed as an entry point for immigration marking an end to the “Great Melting Pot”. “The Indian Citizenship Act confers citizenship on all Native Americans born within the United States.” (Peoples History) Sear Roebuck opens its first retail store in Chicago, IL transitioning from catalog sales to retail. Ford Motor Company announces the first 40-hour work week for all its factory workers. The Holland Tunnel under the Hudson River opens...
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