Famous People of the 1920s

The 1920’s, also known as the Roaring Twenties, were marked by many significant events. The term- Roaring Twenties is generally used with reference to the United States whereas in Europe this era is referred to as the Golden Twenties. Apart from many changes in the society, be it in terms of economy or fashion, there were many people who made a mark during the 1920’s. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and read about some of the famous people of the 1920’s who still hold a very special place in the hearts of many! Here’s a glimpse of some of the famous people of the 1920’s.

Famous People of the 1920’s:
Charlie Chaplin:
Charlie Chaplin (16 April 1889-25 December 1977) has always been known as one of the most creative and comedic actor of the silent era who is always remembered as his portrayal of ‘The Tramp’. With many awards to his credit, Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin, also known as Charlie Chaplin was a very talented director, composer as well as a musician. This talented personality was born in East Street, Walworth located in London. He had a fairly difficult beginning before he carved a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. This silent film comedian developed his own style and was particularly popular in the 1920’s. ‘The Great Dictator’ was his first dialogue picture where Chaplin played the role of a dictator based on Hitler. In 1975, Charlie Chaplin was also named in the New Year’s Honours List. His life was also embroiled in controversy especially when the British Press criticized him for not being able to join the Army. His attraction to women was largely talked about which were loosely based on the number of relationships he had with women he met in his career span.

Greta Garbo:
Greta Lovisa Gustafsson (18 September 1905-15 April 1990) popularly known as Greta Garbo was born in Stockholm, Sweden. This incredible actress had modest beginnings where in she was forced to work at an early age as a soaplather girl and then as a clerk in a departmental store. It was in the early 1920’s when Greta Garbo polished her acting skills at the Royal Dramatic Theatre. This was also the time when she was chosen by director Mauritz Stiller who helped to train her and hone her acting skills. He even gave her the screen name-Greta Garbo. Some of her popular silent movies that displayed her acting talent were ‘The Temptress’ and ‘Love’. This glamorous actress particularly made a mark in the 1920’s. Greta Garbo also preferred to keep her private life away from the media. She was the recipient of many prestigious awards as well.

John Gilbert:
John Cecil Pringle (10 July 1985 – 9 January 1936) also known as John Gilbert was born in Logan, Utah. John Gilbert had a difficult childhood life where he was constantly faced with abuse and neglect. This famous person of the 1920’s made his mark in 1924. He tasted success with films such as ‘His Hour’, which helped to establish him as a high profile actor. ‘The Big Parade’ turned out to be the second highest film to earn good revenue in the silent film category. His relation with Greta Garbo was initiated when they worked together in the movie ‘Flesh and Devil’ in 1926. Although it is cited John Gilbert very much wanted to marry this glamorous star, Greta never turned up for the ceremony. It is also rumored John Gilbert’s decline as a star was largely due to politics.

Louise Brooks:
Mary Louise Brooks popularly known as Louise Brooks (14 November 1906 – 8 August 1985) was born in Cherryvale, Kansas. She began her career as a dancer in 1922. She landed with a five-year contract with Paramount Pictures when producer Walter Wanger noticed her in 1925. Louise Brooks starred in the silent film, ‘The Street of Forgotten Men’ in 1925. She soon bagged many leading roles in silent movies that belonged to the comedy genre. She particularly made a mark as a vamp in the movie ‘A Girl in Every Port.’ Soon, Louise Brooks hobnobbed with the rich and famous and even set trends. She was known for her bob haircut and was the one who basically set this trend in the 1920’s. Her subtle style remained to be her forte in silent films. She also inspired pop diva, Madonna in many ways, which is visible in Madonna’s videos ‘Rain’ and ‘I’ll Remember’!

These famous people of the 1920’s unfold to us how hard work and determination to excel can help one to achieve success no matter the number of obstacles faced.