Widely known for the culture shock she caused with her obviously unconventional means of interpreting what womanhood means, the Flapper also exercised an unconventional means of what it means to be a youth in America. They challenged the constrains of traditional gender roles, while simultaneously challenging the age restrictions on whose voice society allowed to be heard. The Flapper demanded to be heard and demanded to be respected, despite the life experience that all other previous social and political pioneers had, including the Gibson Girl. She rejected the idea that all youth were immature and didn't deserve to be heard; and, although it was years later, she successfully proved that young people were capable of accomplishing change.   

The following is an excerpt from an article by young Ellen Welles Page, an active Flapper and spokesperson for the young, emerging population of social revolutionaries: 

"We are the Younger Generation. The war tore away our spiritual foundations and challenged our faith. We are struggling to regain equilibrium. The times have made us older and more experienced than you were at our age. It must be so with each succeeding generation if it is to keep pace with the rapidly advancing and mighty tide of civilization. Help us to put our knowledge to the best advantage! Work with us! That is the way! Outlets for this surplus knowledge and energy must be opened. Give us a helping hand." 24

24. Page, Ellen Welles. "A Flapper's Appeal to Parents." (The Outlook, December 6, 
     1922, 607.) 

Pictures