The nightclubs of the Roaring Twenties were often referred to as speakeasies. These establishments became popular during the Prohibition era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. During this time, the sale, production, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned. However, speakeasies provided a hidden venue where people could enjoy drinks and entertainment.
Speakeasies were typically hidden in basements, back rooms, or behind unmarked doors. To gain entry, patrons often needed a password or a special invitation. Inside, they could enjoy live jazz music, dancing, and cocktails. The atmosphere was lively and often glamorous, with many speakeasies attracting a mix of social classes and celebrities.
The term speakeasy is believed to have originated from the practice of speaking quietly about these secret bars to avoid drawing attention from law enforcement. Despite the risks of raids and arrests, speakeasies flourished and became a symbol of the rebellious and carefree spirit of the 1920s.