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Body And Soul: The Making Of American Modernism: Art, Music And Letters In The Jazz Age 1919-1926

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When you think about American History the one era that seems to have the most romantic and most appeal is the "roaring 20's". When we think about the 20's we think of things like Prohibition and bootleg liquor. Rise of the American Gangster was a big part of the culture.

What if that was only a small part, what if people like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were the essence of the American cultural transition in what has become known as the age of jazz. According to Crunden these men and others made a more significant impact on society than they are given credit for.

Throughout the book Crunden shows that modern jazz got it start from the black musicians of the day. Even more impressive is the compelling argument that Crunden puts forth. Crunden also gives you a glimpse into the different angle on the race relations of the day.

From beginning to end the book covers what has to be considered one of the most important historical periods of our time. Crunden shows the how the rise of the musician throughout the decade, the cultural changes, the social class differences and the artists themselves make the 20's an exciting time to be alive.