What was happening in the United States and in Europe at this time?

Depends which era you are talking about.

Explanation:

Mid 1700's:

- U.S. gains independence fights over it then goes into a state of isolationism

1800's is the whole era of expansion and civil war Europe nothing major happens

In World War I USA is still in isolation while Europe is having a World War

Then the USA sent troops and supplies then was a great depression then another World War II and now just conflict everyday

cultural achievements of the 1920's 2010  

1. cultural achievements and african american achievements in the 1920’s  

2. art and literature charles lindberg flew from ny to paris, france. became national hero; first transatlantic flight.  

3. greenwich village (new york) and the south side (chicago)  many artists, writers, and intellectuals flocked to these areas to share ideas  people lead bohemian, or artistic and unconventional, lifestyles