In the 1920s, the United States enjoyed great economic growth, which allowed millions of Americans to spend greater amounts of money. Even recently invented objects, such as automobiles, contributed to this dramatic increase in consumerism that occurred during this period. Advertising campaigns helped fuel demand for newly invented items. However, many economists believe that this overindulgence and overspending were harbingers of the Great Depression of the 1930s. The consumerism of the 1920s paved the way for a change in lifestyle and attitude toward money and spending in America. Many Americans recognize that as a society we spend too much money, but that doesn't stop us from wasting millions of dollars on products and services we never use. It is true that consumerism has some positive effects, such as improving the economy, creating more job opportunities, and raising living standards. However, excessive spending and excessive waste associated with consumerism results in an unhealthy craving for possessions, a diminished value of spiritual and moral values, and excessive greed; all these factors plague American society. The end of World War I ushered in a new era of prosperity and steady economic growth in the United States. As people became wealthier, they could purchase many of the newly invented goods on the market. New inventions such as the refrigerator, the radio, and especially the much-coveted automobile, were desired by all Americans, rich or poor. Many Americans didn't care about the price or maintenance of their new car; they simply had to have one. Radios and automobiles, until then luxury goods, became necessities in the daily lives of the American people. Once released, a new gadget also became a must and... a paper medium... a source of all dissatisfaction. The United States of the 1920s has many eerie similarities to the United States in 2007. Both periods were characterized by overindulgence and excessive spending, and both practices ended in resulting severe economic recessions. Americans of both eras often spent money and rarely thought about the consequences. Consumerism causes people to be extremely money-conscious, because money becomes the main focus for most people. People become greedy and want everything they can get their hands on. While many people are extremely wealthy, they are also self-centered and remain apathetic towards the struggles of the less fortunate. As money becomes the most important element in society, moral standards loosen. This is why people will lie, cheat, and steal; they will basically do anything to become as rich as possible.