Introduction

The modernization of leisure

The early 20th century, an important period in the history of leisure, saw the development of many new forms of recreation and entertainment. Society was questioning Victorian values, founded on rigid moral and social conventions, and opening up to a modern culture that espoused a wider range of mores and individual freedoms. The advent of new leisure activities as well as mass entertainments meant that everyone had access to leisure. No longer was the world of leisure defined solely by the social elite.

Amusement parks became very popular among families - the perfect spot for a Sunday outing. Going to the movies, an activity introduced at the end of the 1890s, was added to the list of growing accessible entertainment opportunities. For young people eager to get out of the house at night, there were now dance halls and other venues where they could escape from parental authority and have some fun.