During the 1930s, America was obviously going through rough and difficult times. Entertainment was just what people needed during these times. Radios, and movies were making a big splash in economy.Nearly 90 percent of every American household contained a radio. Sales of radios increased dramtically between 1930 and 1940. The number of radios sold jumped from 13 million to 28 million in just those ten years. The radio offered a variety of uses and needs. President Roosevelt had his "fireside chats" on the radio, which informed America about issues in the country and provided advertisements. The radio also offered a variety of entertainment programs. Dramas, comedies, and children's after-school programs were some among the variety. Orson Welles, a famous actor, director, producer, and writer put together one of the most know science fiction stories of all times, "The War Of The Worlds". Bob Hope, Jack Benny, and the duo Burns and Allen were comedians who had made their start starring in radio programs and later branched out into television and movies. Radio shows for children included "The Lone Ranger", and "The Adventures of Gracie". These programs ran in the afternoon, after the children got home from school. Soap Operas, which got their name from being sponsered by soap companines, played in the late morning and were usually listened to by housewives. Radios were soon used to broadcast big issues in the news such as the crash of the German zeppelin, the Hindenburg, in New Jersey on May 6, 1937.
Orson WellesThe 1930s introduced America to a new type of movies than they were used to. Silent, black and white movies were moving out, and colored motion pictures complete with sound were moving in. The movies of the 1930s included dramas, romances, comedies, love stories, cartoons, and gangster films. "The Wizard of Oz", which was released in 1939, was the first movie to ever be made in color, and remains a beloved favorite film to this day. "Gone With The Wind, also released in 1939, remains one of the most beloved romances films of all times. "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" was one of Walt Disney's first full length feature films to be released into theaters. The Marx Brothers, who were wacky comedians, were famous for their movie such as "Monkey Business". One of the most common features of the films made during this time periods, was that the characters were wealthy and life was beautiful, to lighten the moods of the depression ridden Americans.
Wizard of OzI am a huge fan of movies, and interested in all types, so I thought that learning about the movies and other forms of entertainment in the 1930s would be very interesting. "Snow White" was one of my favorite movies a child, so learning aboutthe other movies released at this time was pretty amazing. Knowing that we went from radios to television was realy amazing. I don't think I could have handled the radio that well though. I also have heard of a movie coming out this year called "Me and Orson Welles". After reading about Welles and his contribution to entertainment, I am interested in this movie.
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