The Great Gatsby Background Information
Directions: Using the websites provided, you are going to explore some the background information
related to our novel. Answer each question in the space provided.
1. The Author
Read through the biography of F. Scott Fitzgerald and list four major influences on his life and
his writing (specifically Gatsby).
2. World War I—Prosperity and Consumerism (2 different sites)
A. After the war, America experienced a time of great economic prosperity. List three
innovations that came out of this time that we still use today.
B. What were the postwar attitudes—both at home and abroad.
3. The 19th Amendment
What right did this amendment provide? How long did it take to get passed? Who was the
deciding vote, and what is thought to have persuaded this person?
4. The Roaring Twenties
The novel is set in 1922. Name 10 major events that occurred in American history from this year.
5. Prohibition and the 18th Amendment (2 different sites)
A. What was prohibition? Who were the major supporters of prohibition?
B. Find one political cartoon from this period and cut and paste it into this sheet. Explain what
is going on in the cartoon.
C. What was the 18th Amendment, and what is so special about this amendment?
6. Speakeasies
What are speakeasies? How did they get their name? What was the effect on modern American
society?
7. Organized Crime in the 1920’s
What can we attribute to the rise of organized crime in America? How did it sustain itself after
the 20’s? Find one major “crime boss” and give three facts about them.
8. Fashion for Women and Men (2 different sites)
Highlight some of the major fashion trends for your gender during this era. Insert one picture of
something you would have worn if you were alive during this time.
9. Automobiles
Read the linked article. Why were cars considered “the most important catalyst for social
change” during the 20’s? Copy and paste one picture of a car from the 1920’s that you would
have driven.
10. Music
Map out some of the music trends of the 1920’s. Find one famous musician of the time and list
two of their hits.
11. Slang
Read through the list of slang from the 1920’s and choose ten words that interest you. Write the
words and definitions below.