the 1920s were an era of growth and increased wealth for the united states. many americans began buying consumer products, such as model t fords and appliances. advertising became very important to american life. during this time, many black people moved out of the south and into large cities such as new york city, chicago, st. louis and los angeles. they brought with them jazz music, which is why the 1920s are called the "jazz age". the 1920s were also the prohibition era after the eighteenth amendment passed. during the 1920s, drinking alcohol was illegal, but many americans drank it anyway. this led to much rum-running and violent crime.